Decline of multilateralism, especially with Donald Trump’s re-election

Source: The post decline of multilateralism, especially with Donald Trump’s re-election has been created, based on the article “C Raja Mohan writes: India, Trump, and the crisis in multilateralism” published in “Indian Express” on 13th November 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 – International Relations – Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Context: The article discusses the decline of multilateralism, especially with Donald Trump’s re-election. It highlights India’s need to adapt by focusing on bilateral trade, technology development, and smaller coalitions like the Quad, as global cooperation faces growing challenges and geopolitical divides. Decline of multilateralism.

For detailed information on Trump’s Re-election and India US Relations read this article here

What challenges do multilateral institutions face today?

Multilateral institutions are struggling due to rising geopolitical tensions and declining trust. Donald Trump’s re-election has further weakened their relevance. For example, Trump’s “America First” policy prioritized unilateralism, withdrawing the US from key agreements like the Paris Climate Accord and WHO.

How Does Trump’s Presidency Impact Global Agreements?

1. Withdrawal from Multilateral Agreements: Trump withdrew the US from key agreements like the Paris Agreement on climate change, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), UNESCO, WHO, and the UN Human Rights Council during his first term (2017-2021).
2. Impact on Climate Cooperation: He plans to leave the Paris Agreement again and remove restrictions on energy production, prioritizing hydrocarbon development. This undermines global climate efforts and could inspire other nations to reduce commitments.
3. Weakened Trade Frameworks: Trump’s administration weakened the World Trade Organization (WTO) and intensified the US-China trade war with proposed 60% tariffs on Chinese imports. This challenges global trade norms.
4. Strain on Economic Forums: Forums like APEC and G20 face heightened tensions. For example, Trump’s earlier withdrawal from TPP disrupted economic integration across the Asia-Pacific region.
5. Focus on National Interests: Trump’s “America First” policy prioritizes national over global interests, reducing US leadership in global governance and creating a crisis in multilateralism.

How is India adapting to the decline of multilateralism?

1. Bilateral Trade Agreements: India is focusing on new bilateral trade deals to strengthen its economic ties, reducing dependence on multilateral trade systems.
2. Minilateral Groups: India is actively participating in smaller coalitions like: The Quad (focusing on regional security and technology), Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (for AI innovation), Mineral Security Partnership (ensuring resource security), Artemis Accords (collaboration in space exploration).
3. National Energy Solutions: India has invested significantly in renewable energy to address climate challenges independently, as global cooperation weakens.
4. Technology Leadership: India is working with like-minded countries to develop new technologies and establish global norms for their use.

Question for practice:

Evaluate how Donald Trump’s re-election could impact India’s strategy in global diplomacy and trade?