International relations is the study of interactions between nations – their governments, institutions and societies – on a global scale. It examines how countries engage with each other, negotiate agreements and manage conflicts, and collaboratively address pressing global challenges like war, peace, trade and the environment. The field reaches into the formal diplomatic ties that underpin global dynamics, as well as the informal networks and alliances that influence international politics.
Some argue that globalisation – and the growth of international institutions – has heightened interdependence and the need for international cooperation and good governance. This perspective is often associated with liberalism, which emphasises the use of economic rather than military means to achieve national goals.
Other theories, notably realism and dependency theory (or the neo-marxist version of it), argue that states are innately self-interested and strive to gain power through exploitation of weaker states. Realism also argues that there is no such thing as an independent state, and a nation’s foremost interest should be its own survival.
Other schools of thought, including constructivism and Marxism, look at the role of ideas and identities in forming international relations. They may also look at the ways in which a state’s behaviour can be shaped by external forces, such as through ‘naming and shaming’ by human rights groups at the international level (for example, calling out Guantanamo Bay for its treatment of prisoners). A language skill will be particularly valuable for those interested in careers in this area, as will some experience of working or travelling abroad.