The Use of Analytic Hierarchy Process forMeasuring National Interests: Demonstrating the Case Study of the Changing Relevance of Libya for Italian Foreign Policy between 2011–2021

Abstract

The study employs the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to quantitatively assess the Italian national interests over a 10-year period (2011– 2021) within the context of five states along the southern Mediterranean coast. By adopting a longitudinal approach, this research investigates the dynamics and relative significance of each state, thereby shedding light on potential shifts in Italy’s foreign policy. The study introduces a comprehensive methodology for visualizing and analyzing national interests, offering valuable insights into the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Mediterranean region. The findings highlight the changing patterns and relative importance of these interests over the examined period, uncovering subtle shifts in Italy’s strategic outlook. By offering a detailed examination of the Mediterranean region, this study presents a detailed understanding of the complex interplay between Italian national interests and the geopolitical dynamics of neighboring states. The visualization of this data provides an overview of the evolving relationships and power dynamics, facilitating informed decision-making and policy formulation.