IR Final DAYS 1–5 FLASHCARDS (FPA + CASE STUDIES)

What is foreign policy?

Foreign policy refers to the strategies and decisions taken by a state to pursue national interests through interactions with other international actors.

Why is it difficult to separate foreign and domestic policy?

Many issues, such as immigration and trade, affect both domestic politics and international relations.

Difference between policies, decisions, and events?

• Policies = long-term strategies

• Decisions = specific choices

• Events = outcomes, sometimes unpredictable

Who makes foreign policy?

Leaders, domestic institutions, societal actors, and international organisations all influence foreign policy.

What is Foreign Policy Analysis (FPA)?

FPA studies how and why foreign policy decisions are made.

What are the three levels of analysis?

• Global (Systemic) level

• State level

• Individual level

What does the systemic level focus on?

The international system, including power, security, and relations between states.

What does the state level focus on?

Domestic politics, institutions, society, and public opinion.

What does the individual level focus on?

Leaders’ beliefs, personalities, and decision-making.

Why is it important to use multiple levels of analysis?

Foreign policy is shaped by international pressures, domestic politics, and leaders together.

How would realism explain foreign policy?

States seek power and security in an anarchic international system.

How would liberalism explain foreign policy?

States cooperate through institutions and interdependence.

How would constructivism explain foreign policy?

Ideas, identity, and norms shape state behaviour.

What are domestic institutions?

Formal structures within a state that shape foreign policy decisions.

How does the executive shape foreign policy?

Leaders set priorities and make key decisions.

How do legislatures influence foreign policy?

They approve laws, budgets, and can constrain leaders.

What is bureaucracy in foreign policy?

Civil servants and ministries that advise leaders and implement policy.

How does public opinion shape foreign policy?

Public pressure can influence government decisions, especially in democracies.

Why is foreign policy described as the “hinge” between domestic politics and international relations?

Foreign policy connects internal political pressures with external international challenges.

Why is Russia considered a strong regional power?

Military strength, regional influence, and willingness to use force.

Why is Russia considered weaker globally?

Economic limitations, international isolation, and limited soft power.

How does the systemic level explain Russian foreign policy?

Russia responds to security threats and power competition.

How does the individual level explain Russian foreign policy?

Vladimir Putin’s beliefs and nationalism shape decisions.

What is a weak state?

A state with weak institutions, low legitimacy, and limited control.

What constraints do weak states face?

Weak institutions, internal instability, lack of legitimacy, and external dependence.

What does it mean to lack a monopoly on violence?

The state cannot fully control force within its territory.

Why does external dependence constrain weak states?

Reliance on stronger allies limits independent foreign policy decisions.

Why is Syria an example of a weak state?

Civil war, fragmented control, militias, and dependence on allies weakened the state.

Does the European Union have a foreign policy?

The EU has a limited or hybrid foreign policy because member states still retain major control.

What is normative power?

Influence through values, diplomacy, and norms rather than military force.

Why is EU foreign policy limited?

Member states disagree and the EU lacks a unified military.

What is strategic autonomy?

The EU’s attempt to act more independently in global affairs.

Why are member states important in EU foreign policy?

National governments still control many key foreign policy decisions.

What are the main goals of Chinese foreign policy?

Security, economic growth, national rejuvenation, and achieving great power status.

Why is China considered a great power?

Because of its large economy, military modernisation, global trade influence, and growing diplomatic power.

How does China challenge the existing global order?

China challenges US dominance by promoting multipolarity, expanding its influence globally, and creating alternative partnerships and institutions.

How can China’s foreign policy be explained at the three levels of analysis?

• Systemic → China responding to the international system and US power

• State → nationalism and CCP institutions shape policy

• Individual → Xi Jinping has centralised power and promoted assertiveness

Why is nationalism important in Chinese foreign policy?

Nationalism shapes China’s identity and supports policies focused on sovereignty, security, and restoring China’s historical status.

What are the main weaknesses or limitations of China as a great power?

Regional tensions, international suspicion, economic dependence on trade, and challenges from the US and its allies.