---
title: "Interests in International Relations | Model Diplomat"
description: "In international relations, interests are the goals states pursue, like security and wealth. Essential for understanding foreign policy dynamics."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/interests"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- In international relations, interests are the material and ideational ends—such as security, wealth, and prestige—that states and other actors pursue through foreign policy.
- How does the realist conception of interests differ from the constructivist one?
- What is the distinction between vital and secondary interests?
- How do interests explain cooperation within international institutions?
- What is the difference between national interest and interest groups?

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In February 2022, India invoked its national energy and strategic interests to abstain on UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine, continuing discounted Russian crude imports despite Western pressure.

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