As a policy area, foreign policy is complex and interdependent. Nations interact with each other in a constant bargain that involves negotiation and compromise to advance their interests. They do so without a global government or true enforcement authority; rather, their relationship depends on a complex web of voluntary international associations. This creates the need for extensive diplomacy and multilateral coordination.
The American people see a variety of priorities for US foreign policy, and there are no clear partisan differences on most. However, when it comes to finding a solution for the conflict between Israel and Palestine and limiting the power of Russia and China, there is an emerging partisan gap.
There is no question that globalization has impacted American foreign policy. For example, it is now commonplace for Americans to support the idea that a global agreement on climate change is in our national interest. However, a debate that pits America against the rest of the world risks mischaracterizing both the nature and the impact of globalization.
It is also important to remember that the US is not alone in addressing many of its foreign policy concerns. It is inherently difficult for any nation to go it alone in a changing world, even a superpower like the United States. As a result, there are countless opportunities for cooperation between countries, including the sharing of resources, information, and ideas. This is especially important in an era of rising threats, from terrorism and cyber attacks to climate change and natural disasters.
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