nongovernmentaligned

Nongovernmentalaligned, also known as non-aligned, refers to a political alignment of states that are not formally aligned with or against any major power bloc. This concept emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to the bipolar Cold War era, where countries sought to maintain their independence and avoid being drawn into the superpower rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union.

Non-aligned countries typically engage in a policy of neutrality or balance, avoiding alliances with either the Western or Eastern blocs. They often focus on multilateralism, promoting international cooperation and peace, and advocating for the principles of the United Nations Charter. The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), established in 1961, is the primary forum for non-aligned countries to discuss and coordinate their policies.

The non-aligned movement has evolved over time, with some countries shifting their alignment due to changing geopolitical dynamics. However, the principle of non-alignment remains relevant in contemporary international relations, as some states continue to pursue a policy of neutrality or balance in the face of shifting power dynamics.