Meaning: The quote "Bringing democratic control to the conduct of foreign policy requires a struggle merely to force the issue onto the public agenda" by Eric Alterman, a prominent writer, encapsulates the challenging nature of achieving democratic oversight in foreign policy decision-making. This quote suggests that it is not only difficult to establish democratic control over foreign policy but also to even initiate a public discussion on the topic. Eric Alterman is known for his work as a journalist, author, and media critic, and his quote reflects the complex dynamics involved in bringing transparency and accountability to the realm of foreign policy.

Foreign policy, which encompasses a government's strategies and interactions with other nations, has historically been an arena dominated by executive power and diplomatic institutions. The decision-making processes in foreign policy have often been shielded from public scrutiny, with a tendency towards secrecy and limited input from democratic institutions. This lack of transparency and oversight has raised concerns about the potential for unchecked power and undemocratic practices in shaping a country's international relations.

Alterman's quote emphasizes the inherent struggle in challenging this status quo and pushing for democratic control in foreign policy. It highlights the uphill battle in even getting the issue on the public agenda, suggesting that the existing power structures and resistance to change make it difficult to bring about meaningful discussions and reforms in this critical area of governance.

The concept of democratic control in foreign policy raises fundamental questions about the role of the public, elected representatives, and institutions in shaping and overseeing a country's international engagements. It involves advocating for mechanisms that ensure accountability, transparency, and public debate in the formulation and execution of foreign policy decisions. This can encompass a range of issues, including military interventions, trade agreements, international aid, and diplomatic relations, all of which have significant implications for a nation and its citizens.

In many democratic societies, foreign policy has traditionally been the domain of the executive branch, with decisions often made by the head of state, foreign ministers, and unelected diplomats. This concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals or institutions has sometimes led to policies that do not fully reflect the will and interests of the broader population. The call for democratic control seeks to address this imbalance by advocating for greater input from elected representatives, public debate, and mechanisms to hold decision-makers accountable for their actions on the international stage.

Bringing democratic control to the conduct of foreign policy involves a multifaceted struggle. It requires efforts to engage the public, mobilize civil society, and push for reforms within political and bureaucratic structures. Additionally, it involves challenging entrenched interests that may benefit from maintaining the status quo and resisting changes that could limit their influence over foreign policy decisions.

The quote by Eric Alterman underscores the arduous nature of this struggle, suggesting that the first step is to merely force the issue onto the public agenda. This implies a need to overcome inertia, apathy, and resistance to change, and to generate awareness and momentum for addressing the democratic deficit in foreign policy. It also acknowledges the importance of public engagement and advocacy in catalyzing the necessary political will and institutional changes to advance the cause of democratic control.

In practical terms, achieving democratic control in foreign policy may involve reforms such as enhancing congressional oversight, promoting transparency in diplomatic negotiations, consulting with stakeholders and experts, and ensuring that public opinion is taken into consideration in shaping international engagements. It may also involve reevaluating the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches on matters of foreign policy, and strengthening mechanisms for holding decision-makers accountable for their actions on the global stage.

Alterman's quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to democratize foreign policy and the need for sustained efforts to bring about meaningful change in this arena. It encourages reflection on the challenges and obstacles that must be confronted in order to advance the principles of transparency, accountability, and public participation in shaping a nation's relationships with the rest of the world.

In conclusion, Eric Alterman's quote captures the inherent difficulties in bringing democratic control to the conduct of foreign policy. It highlights the need to confront the existing power dynamics, lack of transparency, and limited public engagement in this critical area of governance. By forcing the issue onto the public agenda, it signals the imperative of initiating a broader conversation and mobilizing efforts to address the democratic deficit in foreign policy decision-making. This quote serves as a call to action for those committed to advancing the principles of democracy, accountability, and public oversight in shaping a country's interactions with the international community.