Nonaligned: meaning, definitions and examples

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nonaligned

 

[ˌnɒnəˈlaɪnd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

foreign relations

Not allied with or favoring any major power bloc, especially during the Cold War.

Synonyms

neutral, unallied, uncommitted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nonaligned

Typically used in political contexts to describe nations or groups not affiliated with any major power blocs or alliances.

  • During the Cold War, many countries declared themselves nonaligned.
  • The nonaligned movement works towards achieving peace and security.
unallied

Describes an entity or group that does not have an official alliance or partnership with others. Common in both political and organizational contexts.

  • The small nation remained unallied despite pressure from neighboring countries.
  • The corporation is currently unallied with any political parties or external organizations.
neutral

Best used when describing a situation, stance, or object that doesn't support any side or show preference. Often applied in contexts such as politics, conflicts, and opinions.

  • The country remained neutral during the conflict.
  • She gave a neutral opinion on the matter.
  • The decor of the room is very neutral, with beige and white tones.
uncommitted

Used to describe a person or group that has not made a firm decision or pledged support to any particular side or cause. Can sometimes carry a negative connotation of indecisiveness or lack of conviction.

  • He remained uncommitted during the debate, not taking any side.
  • They are still uncommitted voters, unsure which candidate to support.

Examples of usage

  • The country remained nonaligned during the Cold War.
  • She was a strong advocate for a nonaligned foreign policy.
  • Many smaller countries chose to remain nonaligned in order to maintain their independence.
  • Nonaligned nations often faced pressure to choose sides in global conflicts.
  • The nonaligned movement grew in popularity during the mid-20th century.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term came into use during the Cold War, when many countries chose to stay neutral instead of siding with the USA or the USSR.
  • The Non-Aligned Movement was officially founded in 1961 during a conference in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, with leaders like Tito, Nehru, and Nasser.
  • Countries in the movement aimed to promote peace, independence, and cooperation among nations without being tied to the major power blocs.

Politics

  • Nonaligned countries often advocate for self-determination and sovereignty, challenging imperialism and colonialism.
  • The movement has included countries from various regions, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, reflecting a diverse spectrum of political ideologies.
  • Nonaligned status allows countries to negotiate trade and diplomacy without sticking to a specific military alliance.

Cultural Significance

  • In the arts, nonaligned movements often reflect a desire for freedom and independence, as seen in various literary and artistic expressions during colonial times.
  • Musicians and filmmakers from nonaligned nations often address themes of identity and resistance, contributing to global cultural diversity.

Modern Implications

  • Today, some countries still identify as nonaligned, focusing on issues like climate change and global health without partisan biases.
  • In international organizations like the United Nations, nonaligned countries can play a crucial role in mediating disputes and promoting dialogue.

Geopolitical Context

  • The concept of nonalignment has evolved, with countries reevaluating their positions in light of new global challenges like terrorism and cyber threats.
  • While the Cold War era defined nonaligned nations mostly by their refusal to choose sides, today's context includes economic partnerships and collective security.

Translations

Translations of the word "nonaligned" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não alinhado

🇮🇳 गुटनिरपेक्ष

🇩🇪 nicht ausgerichtet

🇮🇩 tidak selaras

🇺🇦 неприєднаний

🇵🇱 niezaangażowany

🇯🇵 非同盟

🇫🇷 non aligné

🇪🇸 no alineado

🇹🇷 bağlantısız

🇰🇷 비동맹

🇸🇦 غير منحاز

🇨🇿 nezařazený

🇸🇰 neutrálne

🇨🇳 不结盟

🇸🇮 neuvrščen

🇮🇸 óháð

🇰🇿 бейтарап

🇬🇪 არამიერკავშირის

🇦🇿 qeyri-bağlı

🇲🇽 no alineado