The multilateral approach can be observed predominantly in the economic domain; the "most-favoured nation rule" is an example. However, the diplomatic world has also seen the arrival of a myriad of international organizations and a multiplicity of international collaboration modes. Moreover, multilateral meetings of all kinds, such as summits, conferences, core open-ended groups or other innovations, are now part of globalization. These multilateral meetings can create inequalities, when some countries cannot afford to participate, even though
multilateralism was conceived to propose principles that would ensure a certain order in international relations.
In the context of globalization,
multilateralism involves a larger number of interested countries than regionalism or bilateralism. It is also opposed to unilateralism, which, although it is generally more expedient, is perceived as favouring the more powerful international players.
Multilateralism is defined by three principles:
- indivisibility, which is illustrated by collective security arrangements wherein an attack on one is considered an attack on all;
- non-discrimination, which implies that all parties be treated similarly, as in the use of the most-favoured nation (MFN) status in trade agreements or generalized organizing principles; and
- diffuse reciprocity, which implies that states do not rely on specific, quid-pro-quo exchanges, but on longer term assurances of balance in their relations.
(adapted from Martin, L. "Interests, Power and Multilateralism,"
International Organization, 46(4) 1992, pp. 765-792)
Historical Background
The term
multilateralism was first used by the Americans after the Second World War, as they tried to create a new world order. This new system was to be characterized by:
- the use of the dollar;
- an open, unhindered system of international trade;
- mechanisms of cooperation designed to rally interested countries around the United-States; and,
- a close-knit network of specialized agencies charged with the reconstruction and development of the technical and social sectors.
The importance of
multilateralism is not in doubt; it inspired the creation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the system of the United Nations. It was a founding principle of the international trade regime put in place by the GATT in 1947, which is now administered by the Word Trade Organization.
The main proponents of
multilateralism have traditionally been the middle powers such as Canada and the Nordic countries. Larger countries often act unilaterally, while smaller ones generally have little direct power in international affairs.
