National Interest: Definition, Objectives & Criteria

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Questions and Answers

Which factor MOST influences foreign policy decisions in less developed countries formerly under colonial rule, according to the concept of foreign dependency?

  • The continued reliance on former colonial powers for expertise and technology. (correct)
  • The pressure to adopt international norms and legal standards.
  • The need to balance relationships with multiple powerful nations.
  • The desire to establish new trade routes and economic partnerships.

How do realist scholars primarily define national interest in the context of international relations?

  • By emphasizing economic growth and trade relations.
  • Through the lens of international law and moral obligations.
  • Objectively, in terms of state survival and security in a competitive environment. (correct)
  • By prioritizing justice and ideological alignment with other nations.

Which set of criteria are emphasized by idealist scholars in defining national interest, which realists often overlook?

  • Military strength, economic wealth, and technological advancement.
  • Geopolitical positioning, natural resources, and population size.
  • Legal, ideological, and moral elements. (correct)
  • Diplomatic relations, trade agreements, and cultural exchanges.

A country's foreign policy includes the tools used to achieve its goals. Which instrument is MOST associated with coercion rather than cooperation?

<p>Use of force (war) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nation's foreign policy objectives are typically classified by time. Which type of objective directly ensures the self-preservation of its political and economic system?

<p>Core Interests and Values (Short Range Objectives) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A country's foreign policy goals vary in scope and urgency. Which criteria is LEAST likely to be used to classify these goals?

<p>The political ideology of the ruling party (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of extraterritoriality in foreign policy?

<p>Projecting a country's interests and claims beyond its geographic borders. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A small island nation wants to strengthen its economy and protect its cultural identity. Which foreign policy approach would BEST balance these objectives?

<p>Engaging in selective trade agreements while promoting its unique culture through diplomacy and exchange programs. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A country is experiencing internal political instability and economic hardship. Which short-term foreign policy objective would MOST likely take precedence?

<p>Negotiating trade agreements to stimulate economic growth and ensure access to essential resources. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Arnold Wolfers, which of the following is NOT a primary pattern of foreign policy behavior?

<p>Self-isolation (avoiding international involvement) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A developing country adopts a foreign policy that prioritizes aiding other nations in need, even at its own expense. According to Wolfers, this aligns with which pattern of foreign policy behavior?

<p>Self-abnegation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which foreign policy dimension refers to the extent of a country's international interactions and activities?

<p>Scope (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the Cold War, many developing nations chose not to align with either the Western or Eastern blocs, forming the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). This is an example of which alignment tendency?

<p>Nonalignment (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nation formally agrees to provide military assistance to another country in the event of an attack. This arrangement is best described as:

<p>Alliance (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A country consistently avoids taking sides in international disputes and maintains a formal position of non-partisanship. This stance is known as:

<p>Neutrality (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these foreign policy objectives reflects a nation's long-term vision for the international system's political and ideological organization?

<p>Pursuing ultimate political or ideological goals. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary foreign policy objective of the military regime that took power in Ethiopia in 1974?

<p>Maintaining the territorial integrity of the country. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following strategies was heavily emphasized by the military regime to achieve its foreign policy objectives?

<p>Developing the country's military capabilities. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the military regime, what was the guiding philosophy that shaped Ethiopia's foreign policy and international alliances?

<p>Socialism and friendship with socialist countries. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the adoption of socialism impact Ethiopia's foreign policy during the military regime compared to previous administrations?

<p>It represented a departure in ideology, but the core policy objectives remained largely unchanged. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After 1991, what became the primary driving force behind Ethiopia's foreign policy?

<p>Ensuring national interest and security. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the post-1991 era, how is the national interest of Ethiopia primarily defined in its foreign policy?

<p>Realizing democracy, development, freedom from poverty, disease, and ignorance. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following issues posed a foreign policy challenge to the military regime despite their efforts to secure the country?

<p>The question of Ogaden and the abrogation of the UN-imposed federation arrangement of Eritrea. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the cornerstone of Ethiopia's foreign policy during the military regime concerning its relationship with socialist countries?

<p>Maintaining continuing friendship with the Soviet Union and other socialist countries. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Emperor Menelik II employed a 'double track diplomacy' primarily to:

<p>Negotiate peacefully with colonial powers while preparing for potential military conflict. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What critical disagreement led to the eventual conflict between Ethiopia and Italy following the Treaty of Wuchale?

<p>Differing interpretations of Article 17, with Italy claiming a protectorate over Ethiopia. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary significance of Ethiopia's victory at Adwa?

<p>It established Ethiopia as a respected independent state in the eyes of European powers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following the victory at Adwa, which action demonstrated the European powers' recognition of Ethiopia's sovereignty?

<p>The signing of formal boundary treaties and exchange of ambassadors with Emperor Menelik II. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes Italy's initial strategy for expanding its influence in Ethiopia?

<p>Gradual expansion from coastal holdings inland, coupled with diplomatic maneuvers. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors most contributed to Italy's defeat at the Battle of Adwa?

<p>Underestimation of Ethiopian military strength and national unity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect regarding Ethiopia's boundaries after the Adwa victory is emphasized?

<p>They were defined on paper with most neighboring countries, but not yet physically demarcated, except for Sudan and Eritrea. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Menelik's accumulation of military ammunitions contribute to the outcome of the conflict with Italy?

<p>It provided Ethiopia with the resources necessary to effectively resist Italian aggression. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor most significantly shaped Ethiopia's foreign policy regarding neighboring countries, particularly Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea?

<p>The unresolved boundary issue leading to disputes and counterclaims. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the 'burning question' that significantly influenced Ethiopia's foreign policy and its role in the region?

<p>Securing an outlet to the sea to ensure economic and strategic advantages. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What strategic move did Teferi Mekonen make in 1923 that demonstrated Ethiopia's ambition for international recognition and security?

<p>Facilitating Ethiopia's entry into the League of Nations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why was Ethiopia's membership in the League of Nations particularly important during the reign of Haile Selassie I?

<p>To mitigate the looming threat of invasion by Italian Fascists. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action did Emperor Haile Selassie I take during the Italian Fascist invasion between 1936 and 1941?

<p>He fled to London and established a government in exile. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Beyond seeking aid from the League of Nations, how else did Ethiopia, under Haile Selassie I, contribute to broader international affairs?

<p>By playing a key role in fighting for African independence and against colonialism and apartheid. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific roles did Ethiopia play in maintaining international peace and security during Haile Selassie I's reign?

<p>Deploying troops for peacekeeping operations in Korea in 1951 and the Congo in 1961. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Emperor Haile Selassie I leverage alliances with external powers to maintain his rule?

<p>By obtaining British and later USA military aid and assistance to consolidate power and eliminate rivals. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A country facing internal political instability decides to adopt a foreign policy that heavily emphasizes unilateral action. Which factor MOST likely explains this approach?

<p>A perception that multilateral institutions are inefficient and slow in addressing immediate threats. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a tense international negotiation, a diplomat realizes that their initial demands are unrealistic given the other party's position. According to the rules of effective diplomacy, what should the diplomat do NEXT?

<p>Re-evaluate their goals and seek areas of common ground to facilitate a mutually acceptable solution. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a diplomatic negotiation, a country makes a series of demands that are perceived as overly aggressive and uncompromising. According to the principles outlined, what is a likely consequence of this approach?

<p>It may backfire, leading to a stalemate or breakdown in negotiations, as it traps the other party. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A country is negotiating a trade agreement with another nation. Which economic instrument would be MOST effective in encouraging the other nation to agree to the terms of the agreement?

<p>Offering preferential tariff rates on specific goods from the other nation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A developing nation is heavily reliant on foreign aid from a larger, more powerful country. The larger country decides to reduce its aid and implement tariffs on goods imported from the developing nation. What is the MOST likely objective of the larger country?

<p>To punish the developing nation for perceived policy differences or violations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Country A and Country B are engaged in a dispute over a shared water resource. Country A proposes a joint research project to assess the resource's sustainability, while Country B insists on immediate allocation based on historical usage. Which diplomatic strategy would be MOST effective in bridging this divide?

<p>Both countries should seek mediation from a neutral third party to facilitate a compromise. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nation's foreign policy is MOST influenced by economic instruments when:

<p>It leverages trade, tariffs, and financial aid to shape other nations' behaviors. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios BEST exemplifies the use of 'carrot and stick' approach in foreign policy?

<p>A country offers economic aid to another country in exchange for its support in an international forum. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Extraterritoriality

The projection of a country’s national interest beyond its geographic boundaries.

Middle Range Objectives

Goals that focus on fulfilling a country’s material, economic, and prestige needs.

Long-Range Objectives

Plans concerning the ultimate political or ideological organization of international relations.

Foreign Policy Behavior

The actions states take towards each other in international relations.

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Self-preservation

A pattern of foreign policy aimed at maintaining the status quo, exemplified by the USA.

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Self-extension

A foreign policy pattern where a state revises the status quo in its favor, like China or India.

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Alliances

Formal agreements for mutual military assistance that carry legal weight.

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Non-alignment

A foreign policy pattern adopted by many developing states during the Cold War, rejecting both superpower blocs.

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Foreign Dependency Criteria

Criteria that define the dependency of less developed countries on former colonial powers for aid and expertise.

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Realist Perspective

An approach rejecting moral and ideological criteria in defining national interest, focusing instead on survival and security.

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Idealist Perspective

An approach that emphasizes the importance of legal and moral elements in defining national interest.

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Foreign Policy

The set of objectives and instruments a state adopts to guide its relations with other nations.

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Foreign Policy Instruments

Specific methods employed to achieve foreign policy objectives, including diplomacy, economic tools, and military action.

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Foreign Policy Objectives

Goals set by a state that can be short, mid, or long-term, influenced by national capabilities and values.

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Core Interests and Values

Short range objectives centered on political and economic self-preservation, cultural integrity, and territorial security.

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Political Independence

The status of a nation to govern itself without external control, often sought after colonial rule.

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Italian expansion in Ethiopia

Italy's attempt to extend its control into Ethiopia, beginning from Eritrea.

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Menelik's diplomacy

Emperor Menelik engaged in diplomacy to prevent Italian expansion through treaties and peace agreements.

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Wuchalle Treaty

A peace agreement between Ethiopia and Italy aimed to prevent war but ended in misinterpretation.

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Article 17 controversy

The disagreement in interpretation of Article 17 led Italy to assume protectorate rights over Ethiopia.

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Abrogation of Wuchale

Ethiopia's formal cancellation of the Wuchalle treaty in 1893 due to misinterpretation by Italy.

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Battle of Adwa

The battle in 1896 where Menelik II’s forces defeated the Italian army, safeguarding Ethiopian sovereignty.

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Recognition of Ethiopia

Following the Battle of Adwa, European powers acknowledged Ethiopia as an independent nation.

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Formal boundary treaties

Post-Adwa agreements defining Ethiopia's borders with neighboring territories.

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Territorial Integrity

The principle of maintaining a state's territorial boundaries against external claims.

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Emperor Haile Selassie I

Ethiopian emperor from 1930 to 1974, known for centralizing power and advocacy for Africa.

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League of Nations

An international organization established after WWI, aimed at maintaining peace.

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Italian Invasion of Ethiopia

A military campaign by Italy from 1936 to 1941, aiming to conquer Ethiopia.

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Government in Exile

A political body that operates outside its home country due to an inability to govern there.

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African Independence Movement

Efforts across Africa to end colonial rule and gain self-governance.

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Organization of African Unity

A continental organization established to promote unity and cooperation among African states.

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Peacekeeping Operations

Military missions aimed at maintaining or restoring peace in conflict areas.

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Socialist Ideology

A political and economic theory advocating for social ownership of production and distribution.

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Military Regime (1974-1991)

A government led by military officials, ruling Ethiopia following a coup d'état.

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Twin Objectives of Foreign Policy

The main goals of the military regime were regime survival and territorial integrity.

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Ethiopia's Foreign Policy Post-1991

Shifted to prioritize national interests and security, focusing on democracy and development.

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National Interest

The goals or values a nation considers crucial for its well-being, including security and prosperity.

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Militarization in Foreign Policy

The strategy of strengthening military capability to achieve foreign policy goals.

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Friendship with Socialist Countries

Ethiopia's strategy to ally with nations sharing a socialist ideology to support its own system.

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Mode of Operation

A method through which countries engage in international relations, either unilaterally or multilaterally.

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Diplomacy

A process of dialogue between state representatives aiming for peaceful solutions.

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Bargaining

A means of resolving disputes by exchanging proposals for acceptable solutions.

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Effective Diplomacy Rules

Guidelines for successful diplomatic interactions, including realism and understanding perspectives.

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Common Ground

Shared interests that help resolve disputes and lead to successful negotiations.

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Carrot and Stick Approach

A diplomatic tactic combining rewards and punishments to influence behavior.

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Economic Instruments

Tools like tariffs and sanctions used by states to influence other countries economically.

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Control Techniques

Specific methods used to reward or punish states through economic policies.

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Study Notes

  • National interest encompasses a country's values, goals, and objectives in international relations.
  • It's the justification for a state's actions and policies toward other countries.
  • National interest is also a reflection of a country's capabilities.
  • National interest includes maintaining physical identity (territorial integrity), political identity (socio-political identity), and cultural identity (ethnic, religious, linguistic, and historical norms).
  • National interest is described as a future vision of a state's affairs and conditions that governments aim for through influencing other states.
  • Criteria for defining national interest can include operational philosophy, ethical and legal considerations, pragmatic, ideological, partisan, bureaucratic, ethnic/racial, class-status, and foreign dependency criteria.
  • Operational philosophy varies depending on time, location, and national values.
  • Ideological criteria involve governments establishing relations based on shared values.
  • Moral and legal criteria involve upholding treaties and avoiding exploitation.
  • Partisan criteria involve aligning national interest with the success/survival of a political party, ethnic group, or religion.
  • Foreign dependency criteria may still exist in developing countries due to ties with former colonial powers.
  • Realists prioritize a state's survival and security on the international stage.
  • Idealists believe legal and moral considerations should also be part of a state's national interest.
  • Foreign policy refers to the objectives and tools adopted by a state to manage its relationships with other countries.
  • Foreign policy outlines priorities set by leaders to direct actions in international situations.
  • Tools for foreign policy include diplomacy, economic tools, propaganda, terrorism and military force.
  • Foreign policy objectives include short-term, mid-range, and long-term goals.
  • Short-range objectives are connected to self-preservation, political/economic stability, and cultural/territorial integrity.
  • Mid-range objectives depend on a country's economic and technological development.
  • Long-range objectives involve a country's vision for international relations.
  • Foreign policy behavior is analyzed based on patterns like alignment, scope, and modus operandi.
  • Alignment focuses on whether a state favors alliances with other countries or neutrality.
  • Scope refers to the extensiveness of a state's international relations.
  • Modus operandi encompasses how a state operates internationally (multilateral vs. unilateral).
  • Diplomacy is the process of communication and negotiation between actors representing states to achieve shared goals.
  • Bargaining in diplomacy is a means of resolving conflict by exchanging proposals.
  • Effective diplomacy involves realism, careful word choice, establishing common ground, understanding the other side, patience, leaving avenues for retreat open, and considering honor/prestige.
  • Economic instruments in foreign policy include various ways to influence other states.
  • States may reward or punish each other via manipulating economic factors, like tariffs, quotas, boycotts, and embargoes.
  • Tools for economic manipulation can be loans, credits, currency manipulations, military aid, and foreign aid.
  • Foreign aid is often used to achieve political/economic goals.
  • Ethiopia's foreign policy has evolved through various leaders.
  • Tewodros II tried to modernize Ethiopia through foreign contacts.
  • Yohannes IV saw Islam and European expansionism as threats to Ethiopia.
  • Menelik II expanded Ethiopia's territory and engaged in diplomacy with European powers.
  • Ethiopia's policies were influenced by securing territory and access to a seaport.
  • The Ethiopian policy under Emperor Haile Selassie I focused on strengthening Ethiopia's position internationally.
  • During the regime, Ethiopia fought a war with Italy.
  • Ethiopia played a significant peacekeeping role, aligning with other international powers following the Italian Campaign
  • Ethiopia's foreign policy under the military regime focused on building military strength and maintaining territorial integrity.
  • Ethiopia's post-1991 policies focused on maintaining national interests and pursuing democracy and development domestically.

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