What is International Relations:
“International relations is the scholarly study of relationships between states, including the role of states, Inter-governmental Organizations (IGOs), Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Multinational Corporations (MNCs).”
There are two perspectives on International Relations: a narrow view and a broad view. These perspectives stem from different international theories.
The narrow view holds that International Relations are official relations between states, primarily focusing on political relations. International relation theorists such as Professor Dunn and Hans J. Morgenthau-father of realist approach, argue that International Relations are solely concerned with political relations between states.
In contrast, the broad view posits that International Relations encompass not only political but also social, economic, and cultural relations. Advocates of this perspective, including Hoffman and Palmer, contend that International Relations extend beyond state-to-state relations to include non-state actors like IGOs, NGOs, MNCs etc.
Defining IR:
We can extract definition from the views as,
“International Relations is the study of interaction between states and non-state actors at international level. The interaction can be political, social, economic and cultural.”
Scope of International Relations
The scope of International Relations encompasses the study of historical events, which can be divided into four phases:
Phase 1: Pre-World War One (1648-1914)
This phase saw the emergence of the nation-state system, replacing the imperial state system. The Treaty of Westphalia (1648) marked the beginning of this new system, where states started interacting and expanding.
Phase 2: Inter-World War (1914-1945)
World War I led to massive devastation and loss of life. To prevent future wars, international organizations like the International Labor Organization were formed. However, these organizations failed to prevent World War II, leading to the rise of fascist and nationalist ideologies.
Phase 3: Cold War and International Peace and Security (1945-1991)
This phase saw the establishment of the United Nations, IMF, World Bank, and other international institutions. The emergence of multinational corporations (MNCs) like KFC and McDonald’s, as well as non-state actors like UNICEF, Taliban, and Al-Qaeda, expanded the scope of International Relations.
Phase 4: Post-Cold War and Unipolar World (1991-present)
The end of the Cold War marked the beginning of a unipolar world, with the United States as the dominant power. New forms of imperialism, hybrid wars, insurgency, proxy wars, ecological wars, and environmental concerns have emerged. The use of technology in warfare has also changed the scope of International Relations.
conclusion
In conclusion, the scope of International Relations has evolved over time, incorporating new actors, institutions, and challenges. As the world continues to change, the field of International Relations must adapt to address these new developments.
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