Foreign policy concept

Foreign policy is the way in which a country relates, interacts and makes decisions regarding other countries and international actors on the world stage.

It includes a wide range of activities and strategies, such as diplomacy, negotiation of international treaties and agreements, international trade, security cooperation, humanitarian aid, among other aspects.

In essence, foreign policy reflects the interests, objectives and values ​​of a country in its interaction with the rest of the world and seeks to promote and protect those interests internationally.

It can be influenced by factors such as national security, the economy, culture, history, political ideologies and strategic alliances.

Do only States have foreign policy?

From an academic point of view, only the States and the EU - European Union - have full legal and political capacity to use all the instruments of a legitimate foreign policy; for which it is necessary to carry out a strategy generally based on a degree of rationality.

Although it cannot be denied that other actors, such as TNCs (transnational companies) have a profound influence on the foreign policy of any State and there is an important interaction between them.

In short, it is a way in which a society defines itself and relates to the outside world.

A history of American foreign policy and global power balances (I)

Pillars of foreign policy

La foreign policy It is based on several essential pillars:

1. National Interests: At the core of any country's foreign policy lies the protection and promotion of its national interests. These interests can range from security and defense to economics, culture and ideological values.
2. Diplomacy: Diplomacy is a central tool in foreign policy, consisting of the art of negotiation and dialogue to resolve conflicts, forge alliances and promote the interests of a country in the international arena.
3. International Security: Foreign policy also involves the management of international security, including participation in defense alliances, combating terrorism and weapons proliferation, and promoting peace and stability in different regions of the world.
4. International cooperation: In an interconnected world, international cooperation has become crucial. Foreign policy seeks to foster cooperation in areas such as trade, the environment, public health and humanitarian aid to address shared global challenges.

Importance of foreign policy

Foreign policy is of vital importance for any country for several reasons:

• Protection of Interests: It helps safeguard national interests and promote the well-being of its citizens on the global stage.
• Promotion of Peace and Stability: It contributes to the construction of an international order based on peace, stability and mutual respect among nations.
• Development Facilitation: It can facilitate access to resources, markets and investment opportunities that drive the economic and social development of a country.
• Preservation of Sovereignty: It allows a country to assert its sovereignty and national identity in the context of international relations.

Characteristics of Spain's foreign policy

Spain's foreign policy has been shaped by a number of distinctive characteristics throughout its modern history. Some of these features include:

1. Europeanist approach: Since its integration into the European Union (EU) in 1986, Spain has maintained a priority focus on strengthening its relationship with European institutions and collaborating closely with other Member States in policy formulation and decision-making at the European level.
2. Support for regional integration: In addition to its membership in the EU, Spain has also been an active defender of regional integration in other areas, such as Ibero-American cooperation and the Union for the Mediterranean, seeking to strengthen political, economic and cultural ties in these regions.
3. Emphasis on multilateral diplomacy: Spain has sought to promote its interests through active participation in international organizations and multilateral forums, such as the United Nations, NATO, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the World Trade Organization (WTO).
4. Defense of human rights: Spain has maintained a commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights in its foreign policy, supporting international initiatives in this area and advocating cooperation in matters of justice and development.
5. Interests in Latin America: Given its colonial history and cultural and linguistic ties, Spain has maintained special attention towards Latin America, seeking to strengthen political, economic and cultural ties with the countries of the region.
6. Transatlantic relations: As a member of NATO and an ally of the United States, Spain has cultivated close relations with the North American country, collaborating on security and defense issues, although it has maintained its own independent foreign policy.
7. Global economic interests: Spain has sought to expand its economic interests globally, promoting the internationalization of its companies and seeking investment and trade opportunities in international markets.

Foreign policy of the PSOE-Unidas Podemos coalition government

These characteristics are not static and can evolve over time in response to changes in the international environment and to political priorities of the Spanish government at all times.

Consequences of a Spain-Argentina Diplomatic Crisis

Conclusion on foreign policy concept

In short, foreign policy is a vital component of any country's government action on the global stage.

By addressing the challenges and opportunities that arise in the international arena, foreign policy shapes the course of history and defines the role of a nation in the contemporary world.

Its proper understanding and application are crucial to building a more just, equitable and peaceful international order for future generations.