Abstract
This research aimed to analyze the foreign policy of Kyrgyzstan as a small state in the context of the school of political realism. By examining the nature and essence of the foreign policy of small states in international and regional relations based on the concept of realism, the authors formed six different conceptual expert criteria. Based on the results of the study, firstly, Kyrgyzstan's passive participation in global trends indicates that its capabilities as a small state are limited. The limited military-political, social, and economic potential of the state prevents it from achieving independence in international relations. Secondly, Kyrgyzstan's international initiatives are mostly symbolic in nature and do not provide it with strategic advantages. This results from the state's dependence on external initiatives in regional and global political processes. Thirdly, the geographical location and limited natural resources of Kyrgyzstan hinder its ability to pursue an effective foreign policy in its interests. Fourthly, reliance on established norms of international law is an important strategy for preserving the country's sovereignty in global processes. Fifth, the desire to become a member of international organizations serves as its main strategy for overcoming external threats and challenges. Finally, Kyrgyzstan does not seek classical neutrality in foreign policy, as military bases of the United States and the Russian Federation are located on its territory. Thus, the concept of realism plays a crucial role in interpreting the nature of Kyrgyzstan's foreign policy. Keywords: foreign policy, realism, small state, Kyrgyzstan, national interests