Which term refers to several nations working together under a treaty to address common goals while preserving some sovereignty?

• A. Unilateralism
• B. Multilateralism
• C. Internationalism
• D. Humanitarianism

Answer: (B)

Multilateralism is about many nations working together under formal agreements to pursue common goals while each country retains its own sovereignty. This means states come together to negotiate treaties or join international organizations, agree on shared rules, and coordinate actions, but they still decide how much of those rules to adopt within their own borders. The emphasis is on collective action through a structured framework, not on one country acting alone. Examples include the United Nations system, trade agreements negotiated by multiple countries, or climate pacts like the Paris Agreement, where cooperation happens within a binding or semi-binding treaty framework. In contrast, unilateralism involves acting independently, internationalism is a broader idea of global cooperation that isn’t always bound by formal treaties, and humanitarianism centers on aid and relief rather than governance.