MEĐUNARODNI PROBLEMI

LNG as a Geopolitical Tool: Qatar’s Role in a Transforming Global Market

Valente Stefano (Sapienza University of Rome, Italy), stefano.valente@uniroma1.it

This paper examines Qatar’s strategic international role, emphasising its use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as both an economic driver and a geopolitical tool. It aims to analyse Qatar’s energy strategies, particularly focusing on the role of LNG in enhancing the nation’s geopolitical influence and ensuring its national security. The research question guiding this study is: Can Qatar effectively adapt to emerging trends, shifts, and transformations within the global energy market—particularly the energy transition—while safeguarding and consolidating its geopolitical position? The author employs the concept of the “rentier state” as a foundational framework for analysing economies heavily reliant on resource exports. The study’s theoretical approach integrates insights from energy security, geopolitical strategy, and economic diversification. Methodologically, it utilises qualitative analysis of Qatar’s energy policies, drawing on recent academic literature, statistical data, and policy reports. The conclusions of the paper point to the importance of economic diversification for Qatar’s long-term strategic relevance.

Keywords: Energy security, geopolitical dynamics, Middle East, tribalism, energy transition