International Relations

International Relations (IR) is the study of the interactions between sovereign states and other entities on the global stage. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including diplomacy, conflict, trade, international organizations, and humanitarian issues. The field examines how countries behave with each other, the processes that govern their relations, and the impact of international norms and institutions on global affairs. Scholars of international relations analyze the causes and consequences of international conflict and cooperation, as well as the influence of non-state actors, such as multinational corporations and non-governmental organizations, on global politics. Theoretical frameworks within IR include realism, liberalism, constructivism, and critical theories, each providing different perspectives on power dynamics, security, and governance in the international system. Ultimately, international relations seeks to understand the complexities of global interdependence and the ways in which political, economic, and cultural factors shape relationships between countries.