International Relations

International Relations (IR) is the study and practice of the relationships and interactions between sovereign states, as well as non-state actors, such as international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and multinational corporations. It encompasses a variety of issues, including diplomacy, conflict, trade, security, and human rights. IR seeks to understand how countries behave, the factors that influence their foreign policies, and the impact of global events on international systems.

The field combines insights from political science, history, economics, sociology, and law to analyze how states and other actors interact on the global stage. It also explores concepts such as power dynamics, international cooperation, and the causes of conflict and peace. Theories in international relations, such as realism, liberalism, and constructivism, provide frameworks for understanding these interactions and the complexities of global governance.

In a broader sense, international relations also examines global challenges like climate change, terrorism, and pandemics, emphasizing the interconnectedness of states and the importance of multilateral approaches to address transnational issues.