Weaponised Interdependence

Weaponised interdependence is the use of a state's privileged position within global economic networks to monitor, influence or coerce other actors. It arises because interdependence is often asymmetric: finance, technology, data, logistics or supply chains may depend on a few central hubs located within particular jurisdictions.

How network power arises

Global networks are not evenly distributed; they often have central nodes through which a large share of transactions, information or essential inputs passes. A state gains leverage when it can legally or physically control such a hub, while other actors face high costs in finding substitutes.

• Network centrality alone is insufficient; effective leverage also requires jurisdiction, institutional capacity and limited alternatives for targeted actors.
• The resulting power is structural because it comes from the organisation of the network, not merely from the state's overall economic size.

Principal mechanisms

The framework identifies two main ways in which central states can exploit networks.

• The panopticon effect enables a state to collect information from flows passing through central nodes, helping it identify activities, relationships and vulnerabilities.
• The chokepoint effect enables a state to restrict or deny access to essential nodes, services or technologies.
• These mechanisms may support financial sanctions, export controls, technology restrictions or exclusion from payment, communication and supply-chain networks.

Significance and policy implications

Weaponised interdependence converts economic connectivity from a source of mutual benefit into a possible instrument of statecraft. It can increase coercive leverage but may also encourage targeted states to develop alternative networks, fragment markets and reduce trust.

• For India, resilience requires diversified suppliers and markets, critical domestic capabilities, strategic reserves and secure payment and digital infrastructure.
• The objective is risk reduction, not complete self-sufficiency, because excessive insulation can sacrifice the efficiency and innovation benefits of international exchange.