Multilateral: meaning, definitions and examples
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multilateral
[mʌltiˈlætərəl ]
Definition
international relationships
Multilateral refers to an action or agreement involving three or more parties, typically countries or organizations. It often pertains to diplomatic discussions or negotiations where multiple states come together to address shared concerns. This approach is seen as a way to foster cooperation and consensus across various stakeholders. Such arrangements are common in international trade, treaties, and environmental agreements.
Synonyms
joint, multiple-sided, three-way.
Examples of usage
- Multilateral negotiations are crucial for global peace.
- The multilateral agreement was signed by several nations.
- They are planning a multilateral summit next year.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word combines 'multi-' from Latin, meaning 'many' or 'multiple,' and 'lateral,' meaning 'side,' suggesting multiple sides coming together.
- Used in English since the early 20th century, the term gained more prominence during the post-World War II era, especially with international organizations.
Politics
- Multilateral agreements are often made in forums like the United Nations, where many countries participate in decision-making.
- Such agreements can cover various issues, including trade, environment, and security, enabling countries to collaborate efficiently.
Economics
- In economics, multilateral trade agreements aim to reduce tariffs and promote trade between multiple countries, impacting global supply chains.
- Examples include the World Trade Organization, which facilitates trade discussions among its member nations.
History
- The 1944 Bretton Woods Conference marked a critical moment for multilateralism, leading to the creation of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.
- The concept was challenged during the Cold War when many countries formed bilateral alliances, creating a more polarized world.
Science
- In scientific research, multilateral collaboration leads to advancements as different nations contribute diverse knowledge and resources.
- Projects like the Human Genome Project were successful partly due to global cooperation among researchers from various countries.
Translations
Translations of the word "multilateral" in other languages:
🇵🇹 multilateral
🇮🇳 बहुपक्षीय
🇩🇪 multilateral
🇮🇩 multilateral
🇺🇦 багатосторонній
🇵🇱 wielostronny
🇯🇵 多国間の
🇫🇷 multilatéral
🇪🇸 multilateral
🇹🇷 çok taraflı
🇰🇷 다자간의
🇸🇦 متعدد الأطراف
🇨🇿 více stran
🇸🇰 viacstranný
🇨🇳 多边的
🇸🇮 večstranski
🇮🇸 fjölhliða
🇰🇿 көпжақты
🇬🇪 მრავალმხრივი
🇦🇿 çox tərəfli
🇲🇽 multilateral