Analysts,Practitioners and Not Getting it Wrong: Some Implications for New Zealand's Foreign Relations

Abstract

Accurate judgement about the conduct and analysis of foreign relations requires recognition of a persisting, but altering dualism evident between the collaborative interest and sovereign preferences. Scope for bridging this divide is discussed in relation to principles of reciprocity, deliberation and justification. However such opportunities are challenged and undermined by current United States policy towards multilateralism, the three instances discussed including American policy towards nuclear non-proliferation, the International Criminal Court, and development assistance. The paper then addresses New Zealand's support for multilateralism, how contrasting Prime Ministers have articulated that interest, and the reduced likelihood of New Zealand making poor foreign relations judgement calls by sustaining it.