multilateralism

The article discusses global geopolitical instability, the fragmentation of the international system, and the increasing use of force by powerful nations. It highlights recent conflicts such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Israel's actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, and India's military action against Pakistan, all of which flouted international law. The piece references books by Alexander Stubb, Brendan Simms, and Jack Watling analyzing the new world order and the role of the Global South in shaping it.

A Chinese foreign policy expert argues that as the US dismantles its global hegemony, China lacks the will and capacity to replace it, instead pursuing a path based on sovereign equality and multilateralism. Da Wei, director of Tsinghua University’s Centre for International Security and Strategy, stated that America’s global institutional hegemony is ending.

The article discusses the decline of multilateralism and the rise of plurilateralism, where coalitions of the willing are driving progress on climate change, AI, and critical minerals. These groups are fostering a 'race to the top' in these key global challenges.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi criticized the United States at a UN press conference, emphasizing the need to protect multilateralism and the UN Charter amid global instability. He accused the US of undermining international norms and endangering world peace and security, though he did not explicitly name the country.

François Villeroy de Galhau, the departing head of the Banque de France, argues that new forms of cooperation are needed as multilateralism faces a crisis.