The global order is witnessing transformation in 2025. The dominance of Western powers, especially the United States, is declining. This shift is marked by violations of international law, trade conflicts, disregard for global institutions, and environmental degradation. The traditional Western toolkit of dominance, including control over finance, technology, human rights narratives, and media, is losing influence. Meanwhile, countries of the Global South are asserting independence and seeking new paths based on indigenous development and cooperation.
Decline of Western Dominance
Western powers no longer hold uncontested global control. Their influence is challenged by the rise of new players and persistent global crises. The use of force and economic sanctions are increasingly questioned. Global institutions face legitimacy crises as many nations reject Western-centric rules. The West’s monopoly on science and technology is also eroding as other nations innovate independently.
Rise of the Global South
Countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America are awakening to their potential. They pursue local models of growth and strengthen defence capabilities. This shift challenges historic patterns of domination and discrimination. The Global South demands respect for sovereignty and equal participation in global affairs. Cooperation among these countries is becoming a key strategy to counterbalance Western influence.
Ancient Civilisations as Pillars of Change
Iran and India, two of the world’s oldest civilisations, play a unique role in this transition. Both have rich histories of peace, cultural influence, and resilience despite foreign invasions. Their civilisational values include respect for diversity, spiritual growth, and the pursuit of justice. These values continue to inspire resistance against domination and promote dialogue and diplomacy.
India and Iran’s Modern Contributions
India led the Non-Aligned Movement and championed decolonisation. Iran nationalised its oil and underwent an Islamic Revolution to assert independence. Both nations have faced external pressures but maintained sovereignty. They now collaborate through platforms like BRICS and projects such as the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). These efforts aim to build a just global order based on equality and mutual respect.
Palestine and Global South Solidarity
The Palestinian struggle marks the ongoing fight against occupation and injustice. It symbolises the broader Global South’s resistance to Western supremacy. Iran’s defence of its nuclear rights also represents the South’s right to development. These issues underline the need for genuine respect for international law and human dignity.
Challenges in West and South Asia
The United States and its allies have intervened repeatedly in West Asia, supporting regimes and fuelling conflicts to maintain influence. Iran opposes these interventions and defends regional sovereignty. In South Asia, U.S. involvement in terrorism-related issues has been controversial, often serving strategic interests rather than regional stability.
Emerging Global Paradigm
The world is at a turning point. Emerging powers and ancient civilisations are redefining global roles. India and Iran exemplify a new model based on justice, cooperation, and respect. This model rejects domination and promotes equality. It envisions nations as architects of their own futures rather than subjects of external control.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the decline of Western dominance in the global order and its impact on international institutions.
- Analyse the role of South-South cooperation in promoting economic development and political independence among developing countries.
- Examine the significance of ancient civilisational values in shaping modern diplomatic and cultural relations between nations.
- Point out the challenges posed by foreign interventions in West Asia and South Asia and estimate their effects on regional stability and security.
