Defining multilateralism.

 

Multilateralism, traditionally, refers to a collective action coordinated between at least three actors. It implies that the actors have a shared realization that it is in their interests to work together to resolve problems that are bigger than their individual efforts could tackle. Multilateralism helps nations to confront complex global challenges through a universal approach. In short, it is a tool of statecraft and a mindset, a way to do things. The spirit of multilateralism is: “together, we are stronger”. — Multilateralism comes from the association of two Latin words: multus (many) and latus (side). Literally, it means “multisided”. The term was first used in geometry before being used in politics. — The definitive Merriam-Webster unabridged dictionary of the English language describes “multilateral” as something having many sides, participated in, or involving more than three sides, as in treaty, guarantees, contract, etc. It is associated with a series of  treaties and international agreements to help rebuild international order after war. — The same dictionary carries a definition of “multilateralism” which is often forgotten in the political discourse, but is a basis of the modern international trade and financial system: “freedom of international trade and currency transfers so as to achieve for each country a trading balance with the total trading area but not necessarily with any one particular country”. The dictionary contrasts it with “bilateralism”. — In a multilateral system, the costs and benefits of international cooperation cannot be judged on a single interaction. Multilateralism creates a mechanism for constant bargaining that generates concessions and gains, with opportunities to balance their gains and losses over the long term. — It allows all parties to participate in the decision-making process and to make their voices heard. Moreover, multilateral decisions are based on collegial agreements. — The core of multilateralism is cooperation. The multilateral system provides a space for international actors to coordinate. It also fosters the exchange of information as well as good practices. It is a space to settle disputes through dialogue, persuasion and respect for collective norms. — In short, under multilateral negotiations, no party gets everything, but all parties get something