International relations (IR) is the study of how countries, regions and global actors interact with each other. It encompasses areas like diplomacy, foreign policy, global development and security, international law and intercultural communication. It’s a multidisciplinary field that draws on theories from a range of academic disciplines, including political science, history, geography, sociology, law and philosophy.
One of the reasons many people choose careers in international relations is because they have a deep vested interest in making the world a better place. They want to advocate for human rights, work on humanitarian projects, help with natural disasters or coordinate counterterrorism efforts. Working in this area often means travelling, immersing yourself in different cultures and learning new languages. This type of cultural collaboration is incredibly fulfilling and often leads to profound personal growth.
Another reason to pursue a career in international relations is that it’s an extremely valuable skill set in our increasingly globalised world. Being able to communicate with people from different backgrounds and understand their perspectives is a necessary tool in any industry, but especially important when dealing with complex issues that affect people around the globe.
Some of the most prominent theories in international relations include realism, liberalism and Marxism. Realism argues that all nations are working to gain power and those who do so most effectively will thrive. Liberalism takes a more ethical approach, arguing that nations should not engage in aggressive wars, and instead seek peaceful co-operation with their rivals. Finally, Marxism suggests that capitalist systems encourage countries to ruthlessly exploit and dominate each other for resources.