[yoo-nuh-lat-er-uh-liz-uh
m] 
| the advocacy or pursuit of a unilateral policy, esp. in disarmament. |
| u·ni·lat·er·al·ism (yōō'nə-lāt'ər-ə-lĭz'əm) n. A tendency of nations to conduct their foreign affairs individualistically, characterized by minimal consultation and involvement with other nations, even their allies. u'ni·lat'er·a·list adj. & n. |
Action initiated or taken by a single nation rather than by two nations (see bilateralism) or several (see multilateralism). For example, a nation might choose to disarm unilaterally in the hope that others will follow. (See recognition.)