unilateralism

American  

[yoo-nuh-lat-er-uh-liz-uhm] / ˌyu nəˈlæt ər əˌlɪz əm /

noun

1. the advocacy or pursuit of a unilateral policy, especially in disarmament.

---

unilateralism Cultural  

1. Action initiated or taken by a single nation rather than by two nations (see bilateralism) (see also bilateralism) or several (see multilateralism). For example, a nation might choose to disarm unilaterally in the hope that others will follow. (See recognition.)

---

Other Word Forms

• unilateralist noun

Etymology

Origin of unilateralism

First recorded in 1925–30; unilateral + -ism

Example Sentences

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng delivered a speech at Davos this week denouncing “rising unilateralism and protectionism” while portraying China as a benefit to the world.

From The Wall Street Journal

Argentine trade analyst Luciana Ghiotto told AFP the agreement was essential "to show that there is a third way without tying ourselves to the United States or China" in a time of heightened unilateralism.

From Barron's

"In an international scenario of growing protectionism and unilateralism, the agreement is a signal in favour of international trade as a driver of economic growth, with benefits for both blocs," President Lula posted on X.

From BBC

"In an international context of growing protectionism and unilateralism, this agreement is a vote in favor of international trade as the engine of economic growth, with advantages for both blocs," he wrote on X.

From Barron's

Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Friday outlined Beijing’s plans to deepen its engagement with the United Nations in such sectors as artificial intelligence and culture, during a speech that rejected tariffs and unilateralism.

From The Wall Street Journal