Foreign policy is the set of strategies and actions a state or non-state actor pursues in its relations with other states, organizations and entities across international boundaries. It reflects the interests, values and preferences of a country and guides its decisions and behavior in the global arena. Foreign policy influences a country’s economic and security interests and can have major impacts on other nations. It can be seen as an important tool for addressing long-term international challenges and for managing short-term crises.
There are three fundamental questions that shape a government’s approach to foreign policy: How much should a country engage with the world? What should be the goals of that engagement? And how should the country balance those goals against its domestic interests?
The answer to these questions will differ depending on the particular situation and context. But all countries will need to develop a foreign policy in order to exercise their power, influence and leadership in the world.
Presidents are often seen as the main architects of foreign policy, and they certainly have significant control over their nation’s relationships with the rest of the world. However, the president’s power is limited by Congress and other co-equal branches of government. For example, a president can deploy troops around the world but cannot declare war, which requires Congressional approval. They can sign executive agreements with other nations but cannot enter into treaties, which require Senate approval. And they can send a dime’s worth of aid to a foreign country but must first secure Congressional funding for it.
About the Author
