The global order in 2025 is marked by a deep transformation. The United States under President Donald Trump has sidelined the United Nations and weakened the collective voice of the Global South. This shift signals an end to traditional multilateralism. Instead, power is exercised through strategic bilateral deals and unilateral tariffs. India stands at important juncture amid these changes, with prospects to become a leading global economy and a bridge between the Global South and North.
Decline of Multilateralism
The UN’s influence has diminished as the U.S. pursues national interests through direct bilateral agreements. This approach fragments global cooperation. The BRICS Summit of July 2025 brought into light this trend. Despite a lengthy declaration, it did not address the rejection of multilateralism. Instead, countries are pressured to negotiate individually rather than collectively. The era of global consensus through international institutions appears over.
India’s Strategic Autonomy
India must accept the new global reality by focusing on national prosperity and South-South cooperation. Strategic autonomy means neutrality between major powers and clear articulation of India’s core interests. India’s recent loss of key positions in global bodies shows the need for stronger diplomatic focus. Aligning with the Global South requires moving beyond financial incentives and building genuine partnerships.
Economic Realignment Towards the East
India’s future growth depends on looking eastwards for trade and innovation rather than westwards. Trade concessions with the U.S. should be balanced with agreements with ASEAN nations. Infrastructure development is crucial. India can emulate China’s past investment scale to sustain double-digit growth. Modern expressways, high-speed rail, data centres and science universities will boost exports and domestic consumption.
Leadership in the Fourth Industrial Revolution
India is emerging as a leader in new technologies. It has surpassed the U.K. and Germany in Generative AI patents according to the World Intellectual Property Organization. This technological edge supports endogenous economic growth and social well-being. India’s innovation ecosystem is a key asset in the changing global landscape.
Military Modernisation and Diplomacy
Military doctrines are evolving worldwide with increased reliance on integrated air defence, satellites, drones and cyber capabilities. India is positioned to lead in these domains, reducing dependence on large ground forces and imported platforms. This flexibility enhances India’s foreign policy options. On borders, India is revisiting colonial-era disputes with a focus on peace and growth. Recent diplomatic overtures to China and Pakistan aim to build trust and resolve long-standing issues peacefully.
Revitalising the Global South
The upcoming BRICS Summit in India in 2026 offers a chance to strengthen South-South cooperation. Moving away from the old multilateral bargaining model, the focus should be on shared prosperity. Adjusting tariffs and value chains to serve the growing consumption in the Global South can boost inclusive growth. This shift requires balancing global integration with protection of local industries.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the impact of declining multilateralism on global governance and international cooperation.
- Analyse India’s strategic autonomy in the context of shifting global power dynamics and its relations with major powers.
- With suitable examples, discuss the role of infrastructure development in sustaining economic growth in emerging economies like India and China.
- Examine the evolution of military doctrines in the 21st century and discuss how technological advancements influence national security strategies.
