Nehru’s Advocacy of Internationalism and Indian Foreign Policy

That Jawaharlal Nehru was an internationalist is widely accepted. But the extent to which Nehru’s internationalist ideas informed and permeated the foreign policy that he crafted and practised has not been hitherto fully explored. This chapter highlights the internationalist aspect of Nehru’s worldview, so as to enable a more comprehensive understanding of Nehru the statesman. Nehru’s was, however, not a lone view. Internationalism was, in fact, an integral element of the Indian National Congress’ expression of nationalism during the struggle for freedom. Thus, a better understanding of Nehru the statesman also contributes to a greater appreciation of the ideas that shaped and continue to shape India’s approach to international affairs.