Cooperation: treaties, collective security, strategic alliances, economic cooperation, informal cooperation

Question 1

Cooperation: Treaties

Answer 1

States do not simply cooperate with each other through IGOs. A more flexible way of cooperating with other states is through bilateral and multilateral treaties
These are agreed between as many or as few states as desired
These may be agreed by states that group together on a particular issue, rather than by region
If in treaty form, they represent formal international law
Some treaties are used to establish, or change the rules of, IGOs
To be fully covered by, and obliged to comply with treaties, states must:
Sign the treaty
Ratify the treaty through their national legislatures or parliaments

Question 2

Strategic alliances

Answer 2

States frequently cooperate more informally, without the need for treaties or IGOs. Choosing reliable and profitable allies and working together on matters of security, trade or development is important if states want to achieve their goals and protect their interests.

Powerful states may decide to form new alliances with less powerful states for mutual benefit.
China has increased ties with many African states in recent years. China has invested heavily in infrastructure in return for favorable access to natural resources which they lack.

Question 3

Economic cooperation

Answer 3

Bilateral and multilateral trade agreements (Trans-Pacific Partnership, trade blocs)
Regional economic integration (EU Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas, DCFTA)
These facilitate and regulate international production of goods and services
Economic globalization