The release of the ‘Global Britain, Global Broker’ report by Chatham House, a leading UK policy institute, has delineated a new path for Britain’s foreign policy in the post-Brexit era. The report identifies four nations—India, Russia, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia—as the ‘difficult four’, suggesting that these countries could either emerge as rivals or prove to be challenging partners for the United Kingdom.
Understanding the ‘Difficult Four’
The term ‘difficult four’ refers to a group of countries that the report suggests may not align smoothly with the UK’s foreign policy objectives. These countries are seen as potentially problematic because of their geopolitical strategies, internal policies, and differing worldviews, which could lead to friction in international relations with the UK.
India’s Position in the ‘Difficult Four’
India’s inclusion in this list is attributed to several factors highlighted by the report. The rise of ‘overt Hindu nationalism’ is cited as a concern, indicating a shift in the country’s secular fabric that could affect its minority populations and lead to internal strife. The report also points to India’s perceived reluctance in supporting the principles of ‘liberal democracy’, which includes a commitment to individual rights, free elections, and the rule of law. Furthermore, India’s ‘ambivalence’ about human rights abuses, both within its borders and in its regional influence, is another reason for its classification among the ‘difficult four’.
Russia’s Role as a Potential Rival
Russia’s relationship with the UK and the West, in general, has been strained due to various reasons, including allegations of election meddling, cyber-attacks, and military interventions in places like Ukraine and Syria. The report underscores Russia’s assertive foreign policy and its impact on international security and stability, making it one of the ‘difficult four’ countries.
Turkey’s Complex Dynamics
Turkey is another nation whose complex political dynamics have led to its inclusion in the list. The country’s strategic location as a bridge between Europe and Asia gives it significant geopolitical leverage. However, concerns over Turkey’s domestic policies, its approach toward civil liberties, and its foreign policy maneuvers in the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean have raised eyebrows in the international community.
Saudi Arabia’s Controversial Stance
Saudi Arabia’s classification among the ‘difficult four’ is largely due to its human rights record, including the treatment of women and political dissidents, as well as its role in the conflict in Yemen. The kingdom’s conservative interpretation of Islamic law and the absolute monarchy’s control over the state apparatus are seen as at odds with the UK’s advocacy for liberal democratic values.
Implications for UK Foreign Policy
The ‘Global Britain, Global Broker’ report proposes that the UK must navigate its relationships with these ‘difficult four’ countries carefully. It suggests that while these countries present challenges, they also offer opportunities for engagement on trade, security, and global governance. The UK’s approach will need to balance its values with its interests, fostering cooperation where possible but remaining vigilant about the potential for rivalry and conflict.
The report’s classification of the ‘difficult four’ is a strategic assessment of the current geopolitical environment, providing insights into how the UK might shape its foreign policy to address emerging global challenges. It emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of each country’s unique position and the importance of diplomacy in forging a path forward for ‘Global Britain’ in a complex international landscape.
