↗ At its simplest, statecraft is the skill and practice of governing a country. In an international context, it refers to how – and how well – countries leverage the tools they have available to achieve their objectives.

Statecraft often involves drawing on diplomatic influence, economic size and military power. But it also extends well beyond those elements. Aid programs, people-to-people links, cultural and historical ties, or business collaboration are just some of the many levers through which states can build relationships and advance their foreign policy objectives.