Encyclopedia Entries

Showing all 8 results

• Term

  Sanctions

  A form of hard power, these are coercive measures taken by one or more states to protest another state’s actions and to force a change of behavior. Although sanctions may technically include military action, they usually refer to measures taken by diplomats in lieu of military action. Diplomatically, sanctions may include the breaking of formal relations or the removal of a country’s embassy. Other forms include economic sanctions to ban certain types of trade, and sports sanctions to prevent a country’s people and teams from competing in international events.

• Term

  Secretary (third, second, first)

  The diplomatic rank of officers posted overseas

• Term

  Secretary of State

  The head of the State Department who is responsible for foreign affairs

• Term

  Smart power

  The flexible and combined use of hard power – military force or economic sanctions – and soft power – diplomatic and cultural influence – to overcome a foreign policy challenge.

• Term

  Sovereignty

  Supreme and independent power or authority in government as possessed or claimed by a state or community

• Term

  Stalemate

  Any position or situation in which no action can be taken or progress made; deadlock.

• Term

  State Visit

  A formal visit from one head of state to a foreign country by the invitation of the head of state of that country.

• Term

  Summit

  A formally arranged meeting of heads of governments.