What characterizes a unilateral approach to foreign policy?

A unilateral approach to foreign policy is characterized by independent action taken by a single country, without the formal consent or cooperation of other nations. This method allows a country to pursue its national interests based purely on its own strategic goals, values, or perception of security threats. Such an approach can be driven by the desire for expediency, national sovereignty, or a belief that multilateral engagements may dilute the effectiveness of foreign policy actions.

The essence of unilateralism is that it emphasizes autonomy in decision-making, allowing a state to act swiftly in response to situations that it perceives as urgent or requiring immediate action. This contrasts with cooperative strategies, where countries work together through consensus and coordination, often leading to multilateral agreements or actions.