IR examines the interactions of nations, international organisations and other global actors. It covers topics including international law, global politics and diplomacy. It also considers broader issues such as terrorism, pandemics and climate change, which transcend national boundaries. It has various theoretical frameworks, notably realism and liberalism, which are used to analyse patterns of state behaviour.
A policy aimed at furthering a country’s interests rather than upholding moral principles. This is often a guise under which politicians without scruples advance their own agendas.
An alliance between countries with a common interest, such as the GCC (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia). This structure is designed to avoid a regional superpower emerging, as in a unipolar system. It is a form of soft power, in contrast with hard power like military force.
The belief that all states seek to horde power and that those who do so most efficiently will thrive. It is a core principle of realism, which explains why powerful states are able to eclipse weaker ones.
A temporary cessation of hostilities based on humanitarian grounds, usually for a limited period and in a specific region. It is distinct from a ceasefire, which is usually agreed as part of an overall peace agreement. The concept is most common in the Middle East but is also used in Africa, Asia and elsewhere. It can lead to political instability, as in the Gaza conflict. It may be part of a negotiated settlement, or a unilateral declaration by one party.