International Relations (IR) is the study and practice of the interactions between sovereign states and non-state actors on the global stage. It encompasses the analysis of political, economic, cultural, and social relationships among countries, as well as the role of international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and multinational corporations. The field examines issues such as diplomacy, conflict, security, trade, human rights, and international law.
IR seeks to understand how nations engage with each other, the motivations behind their actions, and the implications of these interactions for global peace, stability, and development. It draws from various disciplines, including political science, history, economics, and sociology, employing diverse theories and frameworks to analyze international phenomena. Key concepts in IR include power dynamics, cooperation, conflict resolution, and global governance. The field also addresses contemporary challenges such as globalization, environmental issues, and transnational terrorism, contributing to policy-making and strategic decision-making on an international scale.