Progressive realism

Progressive realism is a foreign policy paradigm largely made popular by Robert Wright in 2006^[1] which focuses on producing measurable results in pursuit of widely supported goals.^[2] It supports stronger international institutions, free trade, and national interests.^[2] The UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, suggested that Progressive Realism will underpin his foreign policy in a speech to the Fabian Society. ^[3]

Progressive realists' beliefs stand in stark contrast to those of neoconservatives. Unlike neoconservatives, progressive realists assert that international security and economic interdependence enable international governance to advance national interests.^[4][5] They highlight the importance of strong participation in the United Nations and acquiescence to international law.^[4] The policy emphasizes the need to convert "hard" power and "soft" power into "smart" power.^[6]