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International relations and cultures Glossary
International relations and cultures Glossary
International relations and cultures
International relations and cultures
Cobweb Model
A liberal notion that claims global politics can be understood on the basis of complex interdependence. The cobweb model explicitly rejects the realist contention of the Billiard Ball model. Liberals claim that relations between states and non-state actors reflect a system of mutual dependence.
Example: Trade between the European Union and South Korea shows complex interdependence: tariffs, supply chains, technological cooperation, and student exchange programs link the two societies. Even if disagreements arise, military action is unrealistic due to economic and diplomatic ties.
G7
G7
The G7 is an informal group of seven major developed economies. Its decisions are not legally binding, so members cooperate voluntarily. It represents mainly Western interests and excludes rising powers like China.
Example: In 2023, the G7 coordinated sanctions against Russia, showing how it tries to influence global politics even without formal power.
Lisbon Treaty
A Treaty signed in 2007 that sought to make the EU more democratic. It gave more power to the European Parliament, introduced a citizens’ initiative and created the EU’s diplomatic service.
The Lisbon Treaty, signed in 2007, aimed to make the European Union more democratic and efficient. It strengthened the European Parliament, created the European Citizens’ Initiative, and established the EU’s diplomatic service (the European External Action Service).
Example:
In 2012, citizens used the new European Citizens’ Initiative for the first time to request laws protecting water as a public resource — something made possible by the Lisbon Treaty.
Status-Quo Ante Bellum
A Latin phrase meaning ‘the situation as it existed before the war’.
“Status quo ante bellum” is a Latin phrase meaning “the situation as it existed before the war.” It refers to peace agreements where all sides return to the same conditions they had before the conflict started, without territorial or political changes.
Example:
The War of 1812 between the United States and Britain ended with the Treaty of Ghent, which restored the status quo ante bellum—neither side gained land or major concessions.
Puppet State
A state that is independent in law, but not in fact. They are under the influence and control of another state due to the threat of military force (such as East Germany in relation to the Soviet Union).
A puppet state is a country that appears legally independent but is actually controlled or heavily influenced by another, usually stronger, state. This control often comes through military pressure, political manipulation, or economic dependence.
Example:
East Germany (GDR) functioned as a puppet state of the Soviet Union during the Cold War, since the USSR controlled its politics, military decisions, and foreign policy.
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