The new world disorder – The Economic Times
In the good old days, we knew who was for whom and who was against whom. For us, the good guy was the USA, the real enemy was Russia. This is still true to some extent, with some nuances. The situation was different in the rest of the world. While not everyone accepted the United States’ efforts to preserve the world order that emerged from the ashes of World War II, the United States was certainly unacceptable. The Soviet Union quickly became the polar opposite and other superpower. Meanwhile, the rest of the world was more or less divided into the spheres of influence of the two superpowers. Only a few countries were included outside this clear structure. India became one of them, not by choice but because it was very poor and apathetic when it gained independence. China chose its own path, seeking the joys of communism.
For years, we blindly trusted the known world order, even when the Soviet Union collapsed and a vacuum emerged in Europe. The West naively believed that the Western world order had won and that final victory was on the horizon. Oh, how wrong we were. The new world order began to take shape with the so-called emerging markets. BRICS countries, especially South Africa, India and Brazil, but also Russia, have become the dream of politicians and businessmen. The gold rush has begun. Unfortunately, these countries saw themselves not only as emerging markets but also increasingly as global political actors. They wanted to gain influence by defining their own interests and secure their development on their own terms.
One might think that China’s rise provides ample information. We accepted China’s undemocratic way, but others were expected to live up to our standards. The Ukrainian war has become a litmus test for the stability and influence of the old world order, with Europe and the West at its centre. Meanwhile, the United States under President Trump has questioned nearly everything about U.S. global leadership. We were surprised but continued to blindly trust in our own strength. Unfortunately, this power has been systematically and continually eroded, not by others but by our own inability to take action and understand new trends. Yes, it takes time in the EU and NATO.
President Putin’s grand welcome in New Delhi is an expression of India’s long-standing relationship with the Soviet Union and now Russia. Russia recognized India’s independence in April 1947, before India became de facto independent in August 1947. Russia was India’s closest partner from the beginning and developed a special strategic partnership based on military and energy cooperation over the decades. Russia did what others did not do or did not dare to do later.
We should not faint in the face of signed agreements or be saddened by a warm embrace. It is logical and natural. India asserts its strategic independence, strengthens cooperation in existing areas and focuses on maritime and the Arctic. Many dreamed that India would unconditionally join the group supporting Ukraine, but this is not happening. It’s not about Ukraine; The situation is the same in the Gaza war, in past conflicts, and in future conflicts. India is going full throttle on this visit, perhaps as a lesson for those of us in Europe: no matter how wrong the Ukrainian war is, despite its blatant violation of global principles, there is always an aftermath. If we don’t keep communication open, we’re in trouble. Indians know this. The turmoil of the new world clearly requires sending clear signals to the United States, and President Trump in particular. Despite stifling pressure and tariffs, there are and must be limits. Indians know this, and this visit sends a clear message to the White House: nothing can be taken for granted when it comes to India. India’s strategic independence should inspire us in Europe, especially when discussing European security. Maybe we should give our own word on the musketeers. The disorder of the new world is an opportunity if we dare. Stop whining and let’s get to work properly. This is still true: Europe must stop lecturing others; no one listens to this relic from colonial times.
Of course, we must listen carefully to the outcome of this state visit.
The author is the former Danish Ambassador to India and Japan (retired) and a global consultant and commentator. This article was first published in Danish in the Danish daily newspaper Borsen.
