What does 'multilateralism' refer to in international relations?

Multilateralism in international relations refers to the engagement of multiple countries in coordinated actions to address common challenges or goals. This approach emphasizes cooperation and collaboration among nations, allowing for a collective response to issues such as trade, security, environmental concerns, and global health crises. Through multilateralism, countries can pool resources, share knowledge, and establish rules and norms that benefit the international community as a whole.

In various international organizations, such as the United Nations or World Trade Organization, multilateralism is foundational to fostering dialogue and building consensus among member states. By working together on shared interests, nations can achieve more effective outcomes than could be accomplished through unilateral or bilateral efforts, which tend to focus on individual national interests. The emphasis on multilateralism reflects a recognition that many issues in today’s world are inherently global and require joint action to resolve.