What is the term used to describe the situation where one state's effort to enhance its security leads to a decrease in another state's security?

The term that describes the situation in which one state's actions to enhance its own security inadvertently reduce the security of another state is known as the Security Dilemma. This concept illustrates a fundamental tension in international relations: in seeking to protect themselves or increase their power, states often trigger insecurity in others. For example, when a country increases its military capabilities, neighboring countries might perceive this as a threat and respond by bolstering their own defenses. This can lead to an arms race, where both states feel less secure despite their initial intentions.

The Security Dilemma highlights the irony that efforts to ensure one's own safety can lead to increased hostility and instability in the international system. As states do not have complete information about the intentions of others, they may overestimate threats and make decisions that ultimately lead to heightened tensions. Understanding this concept is crucial for analyzing international relations, as it underscores the challenges of cooperation, trust-building, and conflict resolution among states.