International Relations (IR) is the study and practice of political, economic, social, and cultural interactions among sovereign states and other international actors, such as international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and multinational corporations. It encompasses various dimensions, including diplomacy, conflict resolution, trade, and international law.
IR examines how countries engage with one another, the factors that influence their relationships, and the impact of global issues such as terrorism, environmental challenges, and human rights on international dynamics. Scholars in this field analyze political theories, historical relationships, and the behavior of states within the international system to understand patterns and trends.
Key concepts within International Relations include power dynamics, security, sovereignty, international cooperation, and the role of international institutions. The discipline is often divided into subfields such as international security, international political economy, and comparative politics, and it employs various methodologies ranging from qualitative analysis to quantitative research. Overall, International Relations aims to provide insights into the complex web of interactions that shape global affairs.