What does 'deterrence' mean in the context of international relations?

In the context of international relations, deterrence refers to a strategy aimed at preventing an adversary from taking unwanted actions by instilling fear of significant consequences or punishment should they proceed. This concept is often associated with military capabilities, where a state demonstrates its ability and willingness to respond with force if threatened, thereby dissuading potential aggressors from initiating conflict.

For example, during the Cold War, the strategy of nuclear deterrence was prominent, where the threat of mutually assured destruction served as a powerful motivator for peace, as states recognized that initiating a nuclear conflict would lead to calamitous consequences for all involved.

The focus of deterrence is not on encouraging cooperation or alliances among states, nor is it about provoking an adversarial response or solely promoting economic benefits. Instead, it is specifically about creating a psychological barrier to aggression by making the cost of attack prohibitively high. This strategic approach underscores the balance of power in international politics, highlighting how nations seek to protect their interests through the threat of retaliation.