Civil society refers to the network of non-governmental organizations, community groups, advocacy organizations, and individual citizens who work collectively to address social, political, and economic issues outside of formal government structures. It plays a key role in fostering civic engagement, promoting human rights, and holding governments accountable, serving as a bridge between citizens and state institutions.

Sovereignty is the authority of a state to govern itself without external interference. It encompasses the power to create and enforce laws, regulate domestic affairs, conduct foreign policy, and control resources within its territory. Sovereignty is rooted in the principles of independence and equality among states in the international system, as recognized under international law.

Hard power refers to the use of coercive means by a state to influence or control the behavior of other states or entities, often through military force, economic sanctions, or other forms of compulsion. It is based on tangible resources like armed forces, economic strength, and technological capabilities, and is typically deployed to achieve immediate and concrete objectives, such as deterring aggression or securing compliance.

Liberal democracy is a form of democracy that combines majority rule with the protection of individual rights and freedoms, ensuring that government power is limited by laws and institutions. It is characterized by free and fair elections, the rule of law, the separation of powers, and constitutional safeguards for civil liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press. In a liberal democracy, minority rights are protected to prevent the "tyranny of the majority," ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background or beliefs, are treated equally and fairly. This system aims to balance collective decision-making with the protection of individual dignity and justice.

Ontological security refers to a sense of stability and continuity in a person’s or group’s identity and worldview. It’s the confidence that life makes sense, that one’s place in the world is understood, and that routines and relationships provide predictability and meaning.

The New Interdependence Approach explains how the world has become so interconnected that no country can act entirely on its own without impacting others or being affected in return. It highlights that issues like global trade, environmental challenges, public health crises, and security threats are shared problems that require cooperation between countries, organizations, and people to solve effectively. This approach recognizes that domestic policies often have international consequences, and international events can directly influence what happens within a country. By focusing on mutual reliance, it encourages collaboration and understanding in addressing global challenges while balancing national interests with collective action.