Chapter 18 Part 2
Instrument of Power
The fourth instrument of power is not explicitly discussed in textbooks.
Power is derived from various sources: military, national security data, economic data, cultural data, etc.
The Director of National Intelligence (DNI) coordinates various intelligence agencies established post-9/11.
DIME Acronym
In military terminology, the instruments of power are categorized as:
Diplomatic: Engaging with other nations and states diplomatically.
Informational: Utilizing information effectively to influence others.
Military: The application of military force when necessary.
Economic: Leveraging economic tools and sanctions in foreign policy.
Effective foreign policy requires the coordinated use of all four instruments.
Global Actors in Foreign Policy
Approximately 200 recognized nations exist globally, along with international organizations influencing foreign affairs.
United Nations (UN) is a key player, comprising various organizations:
General Assembly: Every recognized nation has one vote, but these votes are non-binding.
Security Council: Holds significant power within the UN framework.
Multinational Corporations
Many corporations operate on a global scale, impacting international affairs due to their economic influence:
Examples include:
Coca Cola, Visa, Ford, Apple, Google, Toyota, Sony, Pfizer, Samsung.
These entities engage in operations across borders, influencing local economies and policies.
Global Activist Organizations
Various organizations play significant roles in humanitarian efforts and policy influence:
Doctors Without Borders: Provides medical aid in emergencies.
International Committee for the Red Cross: Works in conflict zones and disaster relief.
UN Agencies: Tackle specific global issues.
Insurgency vs. Terrorism
Insurgency:
Defined as a movement aiming to change a political system through organized resistance.
Targets specific oppressive systems to redistribute power.
Terrorism:
Defined as the use of violence to instill fear in a civilian population.
Targets civilians rather than military entities and can be politically or ideologically motivated.
Risk of Violence Globally
An overview of global violence risk, with emphasis on politically unstable regions, especially in Central and South America.
U.S. Foreign Policy Makers
The President of the U.S. serves as:
Chief Diplomat: Responsible for setting national foreign policy.
Commander-in-Chief: Maintains civilian control over the military.
Treaty-making power, although often prefers executive agreements for efficiency.
National Security Establishment
National Command Authority (NCA) comprises:
President
Secretary of Defense: Key advisor on security policy matters.
National Security Council: Provides advice and civilian oversight, with military input.
Military Structure
U.S. military structure includes:
Military Departments: Army, Navy, Air Force, Space Force.
Unified Commands: Combat and operational commands (e.g., Pacific Command, European Command).
Joint Chiefs of Staff oversee military operations and strategic decisions.
Funding needs presidential approval and congressional laws also influence foreign policy, such as export controls for sensitive technologies.