Zuzana Krulichová recently published an article in Cooperation and Conflict, where she provides a systematic literature review on narrative approaches in International Relations (IR). She introduces a distinction between agency-centric and structure-centric approaches which provides a clearer framework for navigating this expanding field.
Narratives are usually understood either as the product of deliberate strategic action or as outcomes shaped by broader structural factors. Yet, the way these two dimensions interact remains underexplored. This article therefore points emphasizes bridging these perspectives and theorizing on their interplay. A more systematic exploration, such as through longitudinal or historical analysis, offers a valuable avenue for future research. In doing so, narratives can remain a powerful instrument for studying IR.