Foreign policy is the set of strategies and actions a country uses in its interactions with other countries and international organizations. A sound foreign policy promotes a state’s interests, values and aspirations in the global arena. It deters aggression through alliances and defense pacts, promotes trade and economic prosperity by lowering barriers to commerce and facilitating international cooperation, facilitates disaster response and management, and fosters mutual understanding between citizens of different countries.
American foreign policy may vary between administrations, but the guiding principles of security, democracy, and development remain constant. This video explores how these ideas inform the United States’ engagement with the world.
The world is more interconnected than ever, resulting in increased interaction between nations and people. This increased interaction presents challenges and opportunities that need to be addressed by government leaders and international organizations. This is why it is important to understand the role of foreign policy in the world today.
The development of the modern world system began with the rise and fall of civilizations, empires and ideologies. These developments shaped and transformed the international system, as well as its actors. In addition to these major trends, other factors have also influenced the formulation of foreign policies. These include the spread of religions and ideas, the emergence of new technology, and the rise and fall of wars.