multilateralism

Cultural  

1. Trade or diplomatic negotiations among several nations. (See diplomacy and recognition; compare bilateralism (see also bilateralism) and unilateralism.)

---

Example Sentences

Without a more robust multilateralism, we risk replacing an imperfect system of collective security with the brutal reality of widespread insecurity.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

"Gone are the days of development partnerships, free trade, multilateralism, and even basic reciprocity," Dussel said.

From BBC • Mar. 6, 2026

Lula said the signing of the deal in Asuncion, Paraguay on Saturday was "very good, especially for the democratic world and for multilateralism."

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 2026

But it occurred in the context of the Cold War—a moment in history that preceded the era of multilateralism, international governance, and the development of international human rights norms.

From Slate • Jan. 6, 2026

"It is urgent that multilateralism be rescued," host Joao Lourenco told those in attendance on Monday, citing global tensions, with wars in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

From Barron's • Nov. 25, 2025