What does the term “multilateralism” refer to in international relations?

Multilateralism is a fundamental concept in international relations that emphasizes the importance of multiple countries collaborating to address common issues or challenges. It involves more than just bilateral agreements or actions taken by individual nations; instead, it seeks inclusive participation from various states to tackle global problems such as climate change, trade, and security.

This approach allows for the pooling of resources and collective decision-making, ultimately leading to more comprehensive and widely accepted solutions. Through multilateral institutions like the United Nations, countries can negotiate treaties, establish norms, and coordinate responses to emerging threats, fostering cooperation and stability in the international system. Thus, the definition reflects the collaborative nature of multilateralism by highlighting the engagement of multiple nations in pursuit of shared objectives.