Definition

Noun: A policy or practice of not interfering in the affairs of other nations, especially by refraining from using military force or political pressure in their internal disputes or conflicts. It is the deliberate choice to remain uninvolved.

Usage

This term is primarily used in the context of international relations, diplomacy, and foreign policy. It describes a government's official stance of avoiding entanglement in the political or military conflicts of other sovereign states.

Examples

• The country maintained a strict policy of nonintervention, refusing to send troops despite the regional crisis.
• Historical debates often contrast nonintervention with policies of imperialism or nation-building.
• Advocates for nonintervention argue that it respects national sovereignty and prevents unnecessary wars.

Advanced Usage

• Principle of nonintervention: This phrase elevates the concept to a fundamental rule of international law or conduct, emphasizing its importance in maintaining order between states.
• Doctrine of nonintervention: Similar to the principle, this refers to a formally adopted and stated policy by a government or political group.

Variants and Related Words

• Noninterventionist (adjective/noun): Describing or pertaining to the policy of nonintervention, or a person who advocates for it.
  • The senator held noninterventionist views on foreign policy.
• Intervention (noun): The opposite action; the deliberate involvement in a situation, typically the affairs of another country.

Synonyms

• Noninvolvement
• Neutrality (in the context of not taking sides)
• Isolationism (though this can imply a broader withdrawal from international affairs)
• Hands-off approach

Antonyms

• Intervention
• Interference
• Involvement
• Meddling

Noun

1. a foreign policy of staying out of other countries' disputes