Unilateralism

Unilateralism is a foreign policy approach in which a state pursues objectives or takes action without seeking the agreement or cooperation of other states. It can involve military intervention, economic sanctions, diplomatic initiatives, or decisions to withdraw from international agreements. Unilateralism is often contrasted with multilateralism, in which states pursue goals through collective action within international institutions or alliances.

International law does not prohibit unilateral measures; legitimacy depends on context, such as self-defense, self-preservation under treaty obligations, or proportionality. Critics argue unilateralism can undermine international norms and collective security by circumventing treaty-based processes. Proponents say it enables decisive action when multilateral forums are slow, ineffective, or blocked by dissenting major powers.

Historical examples often cited include the United States' 2003 invasion of Iraq, conducted with limited international consensus, and the 2017 withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, which signaled a move away from multilateral climate cooperation. Other cases include unilateral sanctions or recognition of governments, undertaken without broad agreement in international fora.

Unilateralism remains a persistent feature of international politics, reflecting tensions between national sovereignty and the benefits of collective security. In an era of rising great-power competition, many states weigh the costs of unilateral action against the potential gains in speed, accountability, and policy coherence.