This paper analyses the concept of normative power rivalry. Assuming that normative power can lead to rivalry between international actors, the conditions under which the European Union’s norms can cause rivalry and conflict are investigated. The hypothesis holds that the greater the clash in relevant norms, the more likely differences between them will lead to conflict. In order to test this supposition, a constructivist approach is developed and applied in a case study of the interaction between Russia and the European Union on the issue of Kosovo. It is argued that the EU’s and Russia’s interpretations of sovereignty, international law and multilateralism conflicted, thus leading to normative power rivalry over Kosovo.
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