Executive agreements refer to legally binding agreements made between the executive branch of a government and foreign governments or international organizations. These agreements are used in situations where a treaty would typically be necessary, but the process of ratification by the Senate may not be feasible or necessary.

According to Quizlet, executive agreements are classified as agreements between the President and a foreign government or international organization. These agreements are legally binding and do not require the approval of Congress. The President can enter into executive agreements on a wide range of issues, including trade, defense, and international cooperation.

One of the main advantages of executive agreements is that they are often easier to negotiate and implement than a treaty. This is because a treaty requires the approval of two-thirds of the Senate, while an executive agreement only requires the approval of the President.

However, executive agreements have their limitations. Unlike treaties, executive agreements are not considered to be a part of the law of the land. This means that they may be subject to challenge in court, and their validity could be called into question.

In addition, executive agreements are often criticized for bypassing the constitutional system of checks and balances, as they allow the President to make significant policy decisions without the input of Congress. Some argue that this undermines the democratic process and the separation of powers.

Despite these criticisms, executive agreements remain an important tool of foreign policy for the United States. They allow the President to negotiate agreements quickly and efficiently, without the need for lengthy congressional approval processes. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, executive agreements are likely to continue to play an important role in shaping international relations.

In summary, executive agreements are legally binding agreements between the executive branch of a government and foreign governments or international organizations. They are often used in situations where a treaty would be too time-consuming or challenging to negotiate. While they have their limitations, executive agreements remain an essential tool for international diplomacy and cooperation.