Unilateral for Dummies

Unilateral is a word that describes something that is done or affecting only one side, party, or group. Imagine you and a friend having a conversation and you both have different opinions on where to go for lunch. If your friend agrees to go to your preferred restaurant without discussing or considering other options, we can say that your friend made a unilateral decision. It means that the decision was made without involving others or taking their opinions into account.

Let's look at another example to understand it better. Imagine you have a group of friends, and you want to plan a surprise party for one of them. Instead of discussing the ideas and letting everyone contribute, you decide on the decorations, guest list, and location all by yourself. In this case, you made a unilateral decision because you didn't involve others in the planning process.

The word "unilateral" has another meaning, especially when it comes to legal or political contexts. In these situations, it refers to actions taken by one country, government, or person without the agreement or cooperation of others. For instance, if a country decides to impose tariffs on imports from another country without discussing it with the other country or seeking a mutual agreement, we can say that the decision was unilateral. Similarly, if a person signs a contract without consulting with the other party or negotiating any terms, it can be called a unilateral decision.

So, in simpler terms, "unilateral" means something that is done or affecting only one side, party, or group. Whether it's a decision made without involving others or actions taken without mutual agreement or cooperation, the concept of "unilateral" emphasizes on one side taking action independently. It's like making a choice or doing something without considering or including the thoughts, opinions, or agreement of others.