Géopolitique

Géopolitique, or geopolitics in English, refers to the study of the effects of geography (human and physical) on international politics and international relations. It encompasses the analysis of geographical factors that influence political power and relationships among nations, such as location, resources, borders, and demographics. Geopolitics explores how these factors shape the interests, behaviors, and strategies of states and non-state actors in the global arena, affecting issues like territorial conflicts, trade routes, alliances, and power dynamics.

The term is often associated with the idea that the political landscape of a region is fundamentally defined by its geography. This includes not only natural features like mountains and rivers but also artificial constructs such as political boundaries and economic zones. Geopolitical analysis is used to understand conflicts, cooperation, and trends in global politics, often through the lens of strategic interests and security considerations.