Foreign policy is the set of strategies chosen by a state to safeguard its national interests and achieve goals in international relations. It involves the use of military intervention, economic tools, and diplomatic tactics. Decision-making is influenced by the country’s domestic politics and interest groups, as well as public opinion.
For example, in the United States, the Department of State advises the President on foreign policy issues and negotiates treaties and agreements with other countries. It also works to promote US values and priorities around the world.
The study of foreign policy is a broad field with many subfields. In general, scholars divide foreign policy into hard and soft policies. Hard foreign policies involve the threat or use of force, including economic sanctions and nuclear deterrence. These are designed to coerce or compel other actors into submission. Soft foreign policy, on the other hand, seeks to attract other actors and promote a preferred outcome through dialogue and negotiation.
The study of foreign policy is often divided along party lines, and there is a great deal of friction between the executive and legislative branches of government regarding foreign policy. Experts point to the Constitution’s vagueness and unclear division of powers in this area, which invites battles over presidential authority. They also argue that presidents have natural advantages over lawmakers when it comes to leading on foreign affairs, such as the unity of office, capacity for secrecy and speed, and superior information.