Bilateralism is the relationship between two independent regions, influenced by cultural, economic and political factors. Positive bilateralism is the most common type of alliance, with formal treaties and agreements strengthening the relationship. Bilateral relationships differ from unilateralism and multilateral relationships, and can be negative or positive. Successful bilateral relationships require compromise and mediation.
Bilateral relations – or bilateralism – refers to the relationship between two independent regions. Cultural, economic and political factors influence this relationship. As such, these relationships can be diplomatic or hostile. Positive bilateralism comprises the most common type of alliance.
Independent regions have many reasons to seek a positive relationship with another region. For one, the two regions may be physical neighbors, and thus a harmonious coexistence is both convenient and beneficial to each party. Cultural similarities can further consolidate and strengthen a two-way bond. A friendly region, wherever it is, can become a strong bilateral trading partner and thus improve the economy and trade. Diplomatic countries can also become enduring military allies, offering assistance, land use, and essential resources in times of military crisis.
Two regions will generally implement various measures to promote positive diplomatic relations. Each region can install a diplomatic ambassador or regional representative in the other region. This representative will act as a link between the two regions, promoting harmony and political unity. The heads of regions can also undertake numerous inter-regional visits to meet government officials and also to promote public goodwill.
Formal treaties or agreements are another important component of bilateral diplomatic relations. Such agreements may involve a formal declaration of peace and military alliance. Treaties on economic and trade relations between regions can also strengthen the relationship.
Bilateral relationships differ from unilateralism and multilateral relationships: the former typically describes a rogue region that makes important decisions independently of other regions, while the latter involves relationships between multiple regions. The United Nations and the World Trade Organization are two prime examples of multilateral organizations. Such entities can condemn deals between two parties on the basis of their exclusivity, their use as a leverage tool by wealthier nations, and their likelihood of negative side effects such as higher taxes. Proponents of bilateralism dispute that streamlining a two-party agreement reduces the likelihood of disputes and facilitates the implementation of the technicalities of any agreements. Thus, compromise and mediation become much more efficient.
While bilateral relations usually refer to diplomacy between two regions, in general the term can also refer to a less positive relationship. A region may, for example, impose a trade embargo on another region, thereby reducing the trade and financial assistance regions can provide each other. A declaration of war is a clearer example of a negative bilateral relationship. In some cases, a region may approach another region that has a diplomatic relationship with a third region to build its own positive relationship with the third region. Social, political and economic compromise is the key to this or any other kind of successful bilateral relationship.
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