International Relations Overview

A military alliance established in 1949 by the North Atlantic Treaty to ensure collective security against aggression. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the freedom and security of its member countries through political and military means.

A bi-national organization between the United States and Canada that provides aerospace warning, air sovereignty, and defense for North America. Established in 1958.

Treaties or agreements involving three or more countries to address issues of mutual interest, such as trade, environmental protection, or security. Examples include the Paris Agreement and the World Trade Organization.

The process of negotiating agreements to end conflicts and establish durable peace. It often involves diplomatic efforts and may precede peacekeeping.

The deployment of international forces to maintain peace and security after a conflict. Peacekeepers monitor ceasefires and help with the implementation of agreements.

Relating to agreements, treaties, or relationships between two parties, typically two countries.

When a country uses unilateralism, it refuses to involve other nations in its foreign affairs.

A principle focused on the promotion of human welfare and social reform, emphasizing aid and assistance to alleviate human suffering.

A global order dominated by one leading power or hegemon, which influences or controls political, economic, and cultural systems across nations.

An international organization established in 1995 to regulate and promote global trade by enforcing trade agreements, reducing barriers, and resolving disputes among member countries.

An international financial institution established in 1944 to promote global monetary cooperation, ensure financial stability, facilitate international trade, reduce poverty, and provide loans to countries facing economic difficulties.

A trade agreement between the United States, Canada, and Mexico, in effect from 1994 to 2020, aimed at eliminating trade barriers. It was replaced by the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement).

A political and economic union of 27 European countries that collaborate on common policies, including trade, legislation, and human rights. It was formally established by the Maastricht Treaty in 1993.

Pros: Promotes peace, fosters international cooperation, provides humanitarian aid, and addresses global issues like climate change. Cons: Criticized for bureaucracy, inefficiency, and difficulties in enforcing resolutions.

A foreign policy approach where a nation seeks to minimize involvement in international affairs, focusing on domestic issues and avoiding alliances or conflicts.

The UN body responsible for coordinating global environmental efforts, addressing climate change, and promoting sustainable development.

The UN's global development network that works to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and promote sustainable development.

A UN agency that promotes international collaboration in education, science, culture, and communication to foster peace and human development.

Refers to the rights and claims of countries bordering the Arctic (e.g., Canada, Russia, the U.S.) to govern and control resources, territories, and navigation routes in the Arctic region, a matter of increasing importance due to climate change and melting ice caps.