International relations (or global studies or global issues) is a broad subject area that explores how nations and large international organisations like the United Nations interact with one another. It also looks at how the individual culture of a nation, including its politics, economics, governance, law and security, impacts on its relationships with others in terms of collaboration and competition.
The idea that nations have a responsibility to their people and the world at large. This concept underpins the UN Charter and many international agreements, including those that regulate trade or encourage the sharing of scientific knowledge.
Power is a central concept in international relations, often defined as the ability to influence or coerce others. It can be used in a range of ways, including diplomacy, military action and economic pressure.
A network of nations that have agreed to work together, usually on shared concerns such as counterterrorism, responding to natural disasters and human rights. NATO and the Commonwealth of Independent States are examples.
A group of people living outside their place of origin, but sharing a common culture, language or religion. Diaspora politics are an important area of cooperation and conflict, and have become a major force in the modern world because of cheap travel and digital communication.
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