Emotions in International Organisations in the Shadow of a Declining Liberal Order

Abstract This Forum article explores the role of emotions in international organisations ( IO s) in the context of a shifting and contested liberal international order ( LIO ). It explores how emotions influence decision-making, diplomatic negotiations, legitimacy and policy outcomes in institutions with a focus on the United Nations ( UN ), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization ( NATO ) and the European Union ( EU ). The introductory piece also introduces a future research agenda on emotions in multilateral diplomacy. We argue that as the post- WWII liberal order comes under increasing strain from geopolitical tensions, wars and global crises, emotions have become increasingly central to multilateral diplomacy and international governance. Yet their role remains under-researched within IO s. Understanding how emotions influence multilateral diplomacy offers new insights into institutional resilience, legitimacy and the dynamics of international co-operation. The Forum suggests that emotions are not peripheral but central to the functioning of IO s. The contributions point to a need for more systematic study of different aspects of emotions within IO s.