Foreign policy
Foreign policy is how a country pursues its interests and values in relations with other nations.
Goals and tools
Foreign policy goals include national security, economic prosperity, and promoting values such as democracy and human rights. Tools include diplomacy, foreign aid, trade agreements, economic sanctions, alliances, and, as a last resort, military force.
Who makes foreign policy
The president leads, as commander in chief and chief diplomat, supported by the State Department, the Defense Department, intelligence agencies, and the National Security Council. Congress declares war, funds the military, and the Senate ratifies treaties and confirms ambassadors. The War Powers Resolution of 1973 requires presidents to notify Congress within 48 hours of sending troops into combat and limits deployments without approval.
Approaches
Isolationism favours staying out of foreign conflicts, a common stance before World War II. Internationalism favours active global engagement through alliances like NATO and institutions like the United Nations. Realists stress power and national interest, while liberal internationalists emphasise cooperation, international law, and institutions.
Flashcard
Managing relations with other nations through negotiation
Check your understanding
The United States restricts trade with a country to pressure it to change its policies. This tool is: