The Decline of America’s Leadership

Source: The post factors impacting America’s global power has been created, based on the article “The decline of America’s leadership” published in “The Hindu” on 10th February 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper2- International relations- Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

News: The article discusses the changing global influence of the United States. It mentions internal challenges, such as political division and declining global dominance, alongside the rise of other powers like China and Russia. It suggests India should balance its relationship with the U.S. while acknowledging these changes. The Decline of America’s Leadership

What are The Factors Impacting America’s Global Power?

Political Division and Dysfunction: The U.S. is described as the most divided industrial democracy, struggling with political polarization and a challenged democracy.

Economic Challenges: China’s economy surpasses the U.S. in purchasing power parity. America faces issues like rising national debt, now at $32 trillion, and challenges in education and public health.

Military Overreach: The U.S.’s credibility is affected by military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq, and its presence in about 750 military bases worldwide.

Internal and External Policy Shifts: The U.S. withdrew from key international commitments like the Trans-Pacific Partnership, reflecting a shift in its approach to global engagement and a focus on domestic issues.

Technological Competition: America is falling behind in areas like Artificial Intelligence, with China and the European Union leading the way.

How are China and Russia Challenging America’s International System?

America’s Influence Post-WWII

After WWII, the U.S. shaped a rules-based international system, which was also power-based.

This system, although centered on rules, was not entirely global and often saw the U.S. exempting itself, especially in matters of internal affairs of other countries.

American military interventions, like in Afghanistan and Iraq, and its extensive network of military bases (about 750 in 80 countries) are examples of its power-based approach within the rules-based system it helped establish.

Challenges by China and Russia

Economic Rivalry: China’s rapid economic growth has led to it surpassing the U.S. in terms of purchasing power parity. This shift challenges America’s traditional economic hegemony.

Authoritarian Regime Expansion: Both China and Russia are aggressively promoting their authoritarian models. They are countering Western democratic values through strategic trade relationships and diplomatic pressures.

Reshaping International Norms: They are actively working to reshape the international system to be more favorable to authoritarian regimes, challenging the U.S.-led order established post-WWII.

Technological and Infrastructural Dominance: China’s significant advancements in high technology and its global infrastructure financing initiatives, such as the Belt and Road Initiative, present a direct challenge to U.S. influence.

Influence through Soft Power: Utilizing tools like the Confucius Institutes and digital platforms, China is extending its cultural and ideological influence, which competes with traditional American soft power.

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What Should India’s Approach be?

Balanced Engagement: India should maintain a balanced and advantageous relationship with the U.S., acknowledging America’s strengths and global position.

Recognize Changing Dynamics: Acknowledge the changing dynamics in U.S. power, especially considering its internal challenges and declining global influence.

Diversify Partnerships: While engaging with the U.S., India should also consider diversifying its international partnerships, keeping in view the rising influence of other global powers like China and Russia.

Question for practice:

Examine the factors impacting America’s global power and how China and Russia are challenging the international system established by the U.S. post-WWII.