Read the following excerpt from the Constitution.

"He [the President] shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, to make Treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur. . . ."

Analyze the impact of the Constitution on the maintenance of international order.

A) The Constitution provides an enforcement mechanism if nations do not follow international treaties.
B) The Constitution settles legal disputes between member nations in accordance with international law and treaties.
C) The Constitution supports international order by providing legal procedures for approving international treaties.
D) The Constitution provides the major principles and rules for all nations to protect the liberal international order.

1 answer

C) The Constitution supports international order by providing legal procedures for approving international treaties.

The excerpt indicates that the President has the authority to make treaties, but this power is constrained by the need for Senate approval, specifically requiring a two-thirds majority of senators present for concurrence. This creates a system of checks and balances that ensures that treaty-making is not solely at the discretion of the executive branch, thereby reflecting a democratic process. By institutionalizing this procedure, the Constitution enhances the predictability and legitimacy of the U.S. engagement in international agreements, contributing to a stable international order. Moreover, it ensures that international treaties are representative of broader national interests, which can help maintain peace and order on the global stage.