The overturning of the liberal international order

by Tayyaba Khurshid
Since the end of World War II, the most dominant state, the USA, has held a hegemonic position over the International liberal order. It is appropriate to assert that the USA has been responsible for establishing this order by promoting interdependence, economic liberation through trade and commerce, democratic principles and values, recognition of human rights, and prioritizing international cooperation through inter-state organizations. The emergence of China as a global economic powerhouse has elevated its status to that of a significant stakeholder on the world stage. This has led to a shift in the Liberal Order’s power balance in favour of China. Moreover, under the leadership of Donald Trump, the USA promoted nationalist policies, deviating from its role as a leader of the world order. This created a void/space in the global leadership that was eventually filled by China, a rising power that not only challenged the US-led world order but also gradually secured its position and influence in various international organizations, including the United Nations, WTO, IMF, and others. The United Nations was established in 1945 to replace the League of Nations, with the objective of preventing future conflicts and uniting all nations under a single platform to facilitate cooperation and conflict resolution. However, China views the United Nations as a tool to shape the current world order to serve its interests. Consequently, the growing influence of China poses a challenge to the UN’s conflict prevention approach. The existence of permanent members in the Security Council has impeded the prevention of conflicts, as the permanent members, namely the USA, China, Russia, Britain, and France, possess veto powers that they may exercise to prevent the passing of any resolution that contradicts their interests or the interests of their allies. China, unlike the other powers of the liberal order, is a communist state and has shaped the current world order according to its own communist tendencies. China has benefited from the current order and aims to establish a new world order with communist traits. In the current global order, China plays an active role under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, holding a significant position in world affairs. China desires to reform the governance of the world to align with its current interests and future aspirations. 

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