Studying international relations is a great way to learn how to work with other cultures, which is a very valuable skill in many different professions. It also gives you an opportunity to do some major global networking through exciting work placements, and develop your leadership skills – important for the next stage of your career.
An approach to foreign policy that emphasises values, such as democracy and human rights, rather than purely national interests. This is usually contrasted with realism.
A theory that states that democracies will not go to war with each other because they share the same ‘standards of civilization’, and only seek power for just causes. This is sometimes called democratic peace theory.
The organisation of countries into regional and international blocs, designed to encourage economic and political co-operation. Examples include NATO, the European Union and the African Union.
A set of treaties that lay down basic principles for the treatment of prisoners of war, civilians and soldiers. These treaties form the cornerstone of international humanitarian law.
The process by which a nation becomes more closely integrated into the world economy, through trade and the movement of people and capital. It has often happened in waves, such as after the end of the Cold War, when China and former Communist countries in Europe and Asia joined the trading system. See also slowbalisation.