With India set to assume the G-20 presidency, the country pledges that it will prioritize multilateral reform as a key part of its presidential objectives. The national agenda is described as not only ambitious and action-oriented but inclusive and decisive as well. Aiming to build a global consensus on critical development and security concerns, India is determined to deliver global goods.
Importance of Multilateralism in Today’s World
In recent times, multilateralism has lost much of its appeal due to persistent deadlocks leading to a perceived utility crisis among powerful member nations. This, coupled with escalating superpower tensions, the rise of populist nationalism, emerging de-globalisation trends, the pandemic, and ongoing climate emergencies, have added to global hardships.
Consequently, nations are turning to alternative platforms such as bilateral, plurilateral and mini lateral groupings, which inadvertently exacerbate the polarization within global politics. However, given the global nature of most current challenges, cooperation and multilateral reform are urgently needed. Critical issues like conflicts, climate change, migration, economic instability, and cybersecurity call for collective solutions. Particularly, disruptions like the Covid-19 pandemic have undone the social and economic advancements made in recent decades.
Challenges Facing Multilateral Reforms
Multilateral reforms face several roadblocks. Firstly, multilateralism is deeply embedded in global power politics, making any reform actions inherently challenging, as they imply changes to the current power distribution. Secondly, status quo powers view these reforms as a zero-sum game, fearing a decrease in their influence and dominance. Lastly, the emergence of a multiplex global order marked by multiple centers of power complicates reforming older institutions and frameworks.
G-20 and India’s Role in Promoting Multilateralism
Promoting multilateral reform must start with setting the correct narrative, currently confined to elite circles and some national capitals. To bring this discourse to the global stage, the G-20 could construct an engagement group dedicated to the cause. India should encourage the incoming chair nations, Brazil and South Africa, to also prioritize multilateral reforms.
While fostering multilateral cooperation, the G-20 should advocate for minilateral groupings as a new form of multilateralism. This approach can prevent competitive coalitions from contributing to a more fragmented world order.
Inclusive Global Governance
The need for inclusive global governance without sacrificing efficiency is apparent. Measures like including the African Union as a permanent member and the UN Secretary-General and General Assembly President as permanent invitees could bolster the G-20’s legitimacy. Similarly, to counteract the crisis of trust and utility, the G-20 should focus on resolving one or two pressing global subjects, turning it into a model of new multilateralism. Issues like food, fuel, and fertilizer security could be appropriate starting points.
Global Ambitions and the Way Forward
With the forthcoming G-20 Presidency, India has the opportunity to shape global discourse on multilateral reform and promote the crucial role of multilateralism in addressing global challenges. With careful planning and strategic alliances, India can position itself as a leader in fomenting global cooperation and consensus – a critical goal in today’s interconnected world.