Global Politics Diplomatic Diction

Global Politics

The study of the political, economic, and social interactions that transcend national borders. It examines the distribution and dynamics of power among various actors on the world stage.

Power

The ability to influence the behavior of others, or to control outcomes, even in the face of resistance. It can take many forms, including military, economic, and cultural influence.

Sovereignty

The principle of absolute and exclusive authority within a state's territory. This means a state has the ultimate right to govern itself without external interference.

Legitimacy

The belief that a government's rule is rightful and proper. A government with legitimacy is seen as having a valid reason to hold and use power.

Interdependence

A relationship where countries are mutually reliant on one another, often economically or politically. This means that actions in one country can have significant effects on others.

Framing

The process by which an issue is presented in a specific way to promote a particular interpretation or solution. It shapes public perception and political debate.

Actors

Any entity that plays a significant role in global politics, such as states, international organizations, corporations, or individuals.

Stakeholders

Any individual, group, or organization with an interest or concern in a particular issue, policy, or project. They can be directly or indirectly affected by the outcome.

The State

A political entity with a defined territory, a permanent population, a government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states. It's the central actor in the international system.

Country

A geographical territory with its own political boundaries. It's often used interchangeably with 'state' but can also refer to a non-sovereign region.

Nation

A large group of people who share a common identity, culture, language, or history. A nation does not necessarily have its own state.

Nation-state

A political entity where the state and nation largely overlap; a sovereign state whose citizens are relatively homogenous in terms of shared culture, language, or descent.

Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs)

Organizations composed of sovereign states that cooperate on specific issues. Examples include the United Nations and the World Health Organization.

Informal Forums/Informal Intergovernmental Organizations (IIGOs)

Less formal, non-bureaucratic groups of states that meet to discuss and coordinate policy. The G20 is a prime example.

Non-State Actors (NSAs)

Organizations or individuals that are not sovereign states but still influence global politics.

Individuals

People who influence global politics through their actions, roles, or ideas, such as activists, celebrities, or political leaders.

Globalization

The increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of people and countries. It involves the flow of goods, ideas, capital, and people across borders.

Authoritarian Regime

A form of government characterized by strong central power and limited political freedoms. It allows some social and economic freedom but demands political obedience.

Totalitarian State

An extreme form of authoritarian regime where the government exercises complete control over all aspects of public and private life, suppressing all opposition.

Multinational Corporations (MNCs)

Companies that operate in more than one country. They are powerful economic actors that can influence national economies and politics.

Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Non-profit, voluntary citizens' organizations that are active at a global, national, or local level. They focus on a wide range of issues, from human rights to environmental protection.

Transnational Advocacy Networks

Networks of activists, NGOs, and other actors who work across national borders to promote a common cause or goal.

Social & Resistance Movements

Broad coalitions of people and groups working together to bring about social, political, or economic change. They often challenge established power structures.

Individuals in Global Politics

The specific ways in which single people, such as activists, leaders, or even ordinary citizens, can have a direct impact on international relations and global issues.

Interest & Pressure Groups

Organizations that seek to influence public policy in their favor. They represent a specific interest, such as labor unions or environmental groups.

Ethnonational Group

A group of people who share a common ethnic identity and a desire to have their own nation-state.

Treaty/Multilateral Agreement

A formal, written agreement between two or more sovereign states. Treaties are binding under international law and are a key way for countries to cooperate.

United Nations "Organs"

The six main bodies that carry out the functions of the United Nations: General Assembly: The main deliberative body where all member states have a vote. Security Council: Responsible for maintaining international peace and security. Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC): Coordinates the economic and social work of the UN. Trusteeship Council: (Currently inactive) International Court of Justice (ICJ): The principal judicial organ of the UN. Secretariat: The UN's executive branch, led by the Secretary-General.