Diplomacy & International Relations Vocabulary

the easing of hostility between countries

“Nixon's visit to China marked a historic détente.”

Origin: French détente `relaxation`, from détendre `to slacken`

politics based on practical rather than ideological considerations

“His realpolitik approach prioritized national interest over values.”

Origin: German Realpolitik `practical politics`

the establishment of cordial relations between former enemies

“The summit led to rapprochement between the rivals.”

Origin: French rapprochement `bringing together`

a friendly understanding between states

“The Triple Entente united France, Russia, and Britain.”

Origin: French entente `understanding`

supreme authority over a territory

“The treaty respected each nation's sovereignty.”

Origin: Old French soveraineté, from soverain `sovereign`

dominance of one state over others

“American hegemony shaped the post-war order.”

Origin: Greek hegemonia `leadership`, from hegemon `leader`

involving three or more parties

“Multilateral negotiations produced the climate accord.”

Origin: Latin multi- `many` + latus `side`

involving two parties

“The bilateral treaty normalized relations.”

Origin: Latin bi- `two` + latus `side`

exemption from prosecution granted to diplomats

“Diplomatic immunity protected the ambassador.”

Origin: From diplomat + Latin immunitas `exemption`

an unwelcome person, especially a diplomat

“The spy was declared persona non grata.”

Origin: Latin `person not welcome`