What does multilateralist mean?
Multilateralist is a formal term for someone who supports multilateralism: the principle that states or other parties should pursue shared objectives through cooperation involving several participants. The term is especially common in diplomacy, foreign policy, international law, and discussions of security, trade, and global governance. A multilateralist generally favors negotiated, many-party action and may support institutions through which participating states can coordinate their policies. The word can also serve attributively, as in a multilateralist agenda or approach, although this use is less common than the noun. Multilateralism does not necessarily mean that every bilateral agreement is objectionable; it is chiefly concerned with situations in which the interests and actions of multiple parties must be coordinated. The term became especially prominent in political and diplomatic language during the twentieth century and remains associated with debates over collective security, international institutions, arms control, and relations among states.
A person who advocates multilateralism or cooperation among several states or parties.
"The coalition brought together leading multilateralists from several countries."
Used chiefly in diplomacy, international relations, and political contexts.
Supporting or relating to multilateralism or a many-party approach to cooperation.
"The government adopted a multilateralist strategy for resolving the dispute."
This attributive or predicative use is less common than the noun and is especially associated with political and diplomatic language.
The regular plural refers to people who support multilateralism.
"Several multilateralists called for a broader summit."
A multilateralist prefers a crowded negotiating table: the more parties involved, the greater the potential for collective action.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does multilateralist come from?
The English word was formed from multilateral plus the suffix -ist, which denotes an adherent or supporter. Multilateral ultimately combines Latin multus, meaning “many,” with lātus, meaning “side,” through the adjective laterālis, meaning “of or relating to the side.” The later development of the word reflects the increasing use of multilateral as a diplomatic and political term during the modern period.
How multilateralist is actually used
The word is formal and most common in diplomacy, international relations, and political writing. It is more specific than a general advocate of international cooperation because it normally implies cooperation among three or more parties through negotiated agreements or institutions.
Easily confused with multilateralist
A multilateralist is a person or position that supports multilateral cooperation, whereas multilateral describes an agreement, institution, or action involving several parties.
Multilateralism is the policy or principle of many-party cooperation, while a multilateralist is someone who advocates that principle.