Global power shifts are creating rising instability

Source: The post Global power shifts are creating rising instability has been created, based on the article “From a rules-based world to shambolic disorder” published in “The Hindu” on 1 May 2025. Global power shifts are creating rising instability.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-International Relations-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Context: Global instability is worsening due to rising geopolitical tensions, disruptive leadership, and declining institutional authority. This article examines how global power shifts, the U.S.’s internal divisions, and conflicts across Europe, West Asia, and Asia are reshaping the international order.

For detailed information on Understanding Global Power Shifts and Emerging Influences read this article here

Rise of Disruptive Leadership and Global Uncertainty

1. Strategic Shifts Amid Global Disruption: Before Trump’s presidency, warning signs of global instability were visible. Despite new strategic tools, experts foresaw heightened disruption due to shifts in power, new technologies, and political conflict.
2. Influence of Disruptive Leaders: Leaders like Trump, Xi Jinping, Putin, and Zelenskyy are reshaping the global landscape. Their influence is seen as a break from past trends, with potential to overturn the current world order.
3. Democratic Disintegration in the U.S.: The U.S., once a symbol of democracy, is now deeply divided. This internal disruption is straining its global relations and weakening its leadership role.

U.S. Economic Policy and Global Trade Instability

1. Trumponomics and Economic Decline: Trump’s tariff wars reflect a transactional mindset that is destabilizing global trade. Leading economists report a sharp fall in U.S. growth and a drop in GDP.
2. Damage to Education and Jobs: Foreign students contribute over $40 billion to the U.S. economy and support 400,000 jobs. Trump’s policies targeting them are harming key educational institutions like Harvard and Columbia.
3. Self-Inflicted Weakening: These actions are damaging U.S. soft power and weakening its long-term economic and intellectual capabilities.

West Asian Conflicts and European Dilemmas

1. Escalation in West Asia: Israel’s offensive in Gaza and Syria, with no U.S. restraint, is seen as a regional pogrom. Its expansionist ambitions are reshaping borders and escalating tensions.
2. Collapse of Governance and New Threats: Syria is in crisis under new leadership. Türkiye faces political unrest, and Israel may strike Iran’s nuclear facilities. Old conflicts like Ethiopia–Eritrea have reemerged.
3. Europe’s Dilemma and NATO’s Future: Europe is locked in conflict with Russia over Ukraine. Trump’s criticism of Europe’s defense raises doubts about NATO’s stability and the EU’s future role.

Resurgence of Terror and Regional Instability in Asia

1. IS Expansion into Africa and Afghanistan: Islamic State affiliates have launched attacks in Mozambique, Congo, and Afghanistan. This signals a dangerous revival of global terror threats.
2. Terrorism in South Asia: Afghanistan and Pakistan face internal unrest and growing terror threats. Groups like IS and al-Qaeda are expanding through new affiliates.
3. Spread of Violence in the Region: Terrorist attacks have spread to areas like Kashmir, where 26 tourists were killed. Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Nepal also face various forms of internal turmoil.

China’s Expanding Influence in Asia

1. China’s Calculated Moves: China is avoiding direct conflict over Taiwan and focusing on countering U.S. tariffs. It is also working to expand its economic influence.
2. Military Expansion and Regional Push: China is advancing peace efforts while asserting military power. It has moved into the South Pacific and boosted submarine activity in the Indian Ocean.
3. India-China Rivalry Remains Strong: Despite recent border adjustments, China-India rivalry continues. Several Asian nations are tilting towards China, widening its regional footprint.

Question for practice:

Examine how rising geopolitical tensions and disruptive leadership are reshaping global stability and power dynamics.