Summary

Multilateralism in American foreign policy refers to the approach of engaging with other countries through international organizations, alliances, and cooperative frameworks to address global challenges and pursue shared objectives. Since 1990, the United States has generally maintained a commitment to multilateralism while pursuing its national interests. Here are some key aspects of multilateralism in American foreign policy during this period:

• Global Institutions: The United States has actively participated in and supported various global institutions such as the United Nations (UN), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). While the US has occasionally been critical of these institutions and sought reforms, it has recognized the importance of working within multilateral frameworks to address global issues.
• Alliances and Partnerships: The US has continued to strengthen and rely on its alliances, such as NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which was crucial during the Cold War and has adapted to address new security challenges. Additionally, the US has developed partnerships with countries across different regions, recognizing the value of collective security and cooperation.
• International Treaties and Agreements: The United States has engaged in multilateral negotiations and ratified international treaties to address various global concerns. Examples include the Paris Agreement on climate change, the Iran Nuclear Deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action), and the New START Treaty on nuclear arms reduction. However, the US has occasionally withdrawn from or renegotiated certain agreements if it perceived them to be against its interests.
• Humanitarian and Development Assistance: The US has been a significant contributor to international humanitarian and development efforts. It has provided financial assistance, disaster relief, and supported programs to combat poverty, promote healthcare, and advance education globally. Multilateral organizations like the United Nations have been instrumental in coordinating these efforts.
• Regional Multilateral Approaches: The United States has participated in regional multilateral frameworks to address specific challenges in different parts of the world. Examples include the Organization of American States (OAS) in the Americas, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Asia, and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in Europe.

It is important to note that while the United States has generally endorsed multilateralism, there have been instances where it pursued more unilateral approaches based on its perceived national interests. This includes military interventions in Iraq in 2003 and Afghanistan in 2001, which drew criticism from some quarters for not seeking broader international consensus. However, overall, multilateralism has remained a central aspect of American foreign policy since 1990, albeit with occasional variations in approach.

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Vocabulary

• Multilateralism