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Understanding the Current World Order

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Learning activity

Chandran Nair's discussion on the concept of "world order" primarily highlighted the transition from a Western-dominated global system to a more inclusive global governance model. What is the main reason for this shift?

Key Takeaways

In this chapter, GIFT.ed Chairman Chandran Nair highlighted the complex history behind our current Western-led world order and how the rise of emerging non-Western powers is challenging the status quo.

  1. The term "World Order" refers to the systems, power structures, and norms that shape global governance and relations among nations. It encompasses the rules and institutions established to maintain stability and address international challenges.

  2. The post-World War II era saw the establishment of the “rules-based world order”, largely led by Western powers. This order aimed to bring stability and prosperity to the world after the devastation of war.

  3. However, this world order also has its roots in European colonialism, which has helped enable the West to continue shaping the global political and economic landscape.

  4. As non-Western nations, such as China and India, modernise and increase their economic and geopolitical influence, they are increasingly seeking greater representation and a voice in shaping global rules and institutions.

  5. The emergence of non-Western powers - and their demands for a more inclusive, balanced, and equitable international system - signal a transition into a new multipolar era, what some term the "post-Western world."

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Further Readings
  1. Richard Best (2024)How the U.S. Dollar Became the World's Reserve CurrencyInvestopedia
  2. Joel Ng et al. (2021)Perspectives: Rules-Based Order? Strengthening consensus on the rules and principles underpinning the international orderAsialink
  3. World Trade OrganizationHistory of the multilateral trading system
  4. Sam Ursu (2022)A brief history of the World BankDevelopment Aid
  5. World Economic Forum (2019)Breathing new life into a rules-based system - a global strategy
  6. Anshu Siripurapu and Noah Berman (2023)The Dollar: The World's Reserve CurrencyCouncil on Foreign Relations
  7. History.com (2018)United Nations
  8. Gideon Rachman (2023)Is there such a thing as a rules-based international order?Financial Times
  9. Chandran Nair (2022)The Emerging World Order is Post-Western and Pre-PluralInstitut Montaigne