Q 52- Discuss how India might contribute to the development of a multipolar and just international order by pursuing an independent foreign policy. (250 words)
Paper & Topic: GS II àInternational Relations:
Model Answer:
Introduction:
The process of organizing interactions between groupings of three or more states is known as multilateralism.
Multilateralism is often thought to include specific qualitative aspects or principles that determine the nature of the arrangement or institution, in addition to the basic numeric aspect.
The globe is in a state of upheaval.
The new world that emerges will be unlike anything we've ever seen before.
As a developing global power, India plays a significant role in the modern multipolar world, which gives India with certain unique prospects.
Body:
The global context is shifting:
China's influence and dynamics in its relations with the United States are deteriorating.
The rise of Asia as a worldwide economic powerhouse.
Global politics, the economy, scientific research, and society all require reinvention.
The Covid Pandemic has resulted in cross-domain, cross-cultural, and cross-national issues.
India should seize this opportunity to reclaim its position as a global thinking leader.
Several countries have taken use of existing international and national regulations to obtain an unfair edge over others.
For example, the World Trade Organization (WTO) is currently paralyzed due to a dispute between the developed and developing worlds.
New Power Asymmetries: Developed countries have complete control over the supply chain network.
China's influence in global economic governance is being bolstered through the Belt and Road Initiative.
The Impact of India's New Foreign Policy on the New World Order:
India may determine the global reaction in terms of multilateralism, not simply medical issues, as chair of the World Health Assembly's Executive Board.
In terms of multilateralism, how can India formulate a global response? Consider the following scenario: a once-in-a-lifetime alignment of the stars for agenda-setting.
The United Nations General Assembly will meet in September to address the theme "The Future We Want."
In 2021, India becomes a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and chairs the BRICS Summit.
In 2022, it will also host the G-20 summit.
New international system principles:
At the Non-Aligned Movement's online conference.
In a more equal world, a new globalisation model based on humanism, fairness, and equality has widespread support, as for the first time since 1950, everyone is facing the same (virus) threat.
It should incorporate NAM-Plus in its foldNAM-Plus, which is popular in many regions of the world and brings both the BRICS and the G7 into the fold.
This new multilateralism should be based on outcomes rather than rules, with "security" being replaced by "similar levels of welfare" and a new P-5 not based on the G7.
Challenges:
Pakistan's inclusion as one of the key countries in China's Belt and Road Initiative poses a significant strategic challenge for India.
Because of India's tense relations with Pakistan, the Neighbourhood First policy has had limited success.
Because of China's geopolitical and economic influence in South Asia, it may exert political pressure on its allies.
As an example: South China Sea Disputes
Organizations like the Commonwealth and the Non-Aligned Movement are relevant and effective.
SAARC has also been impeded by strained relations between India and Pakistan, making it unable to function efficiently.
Protectionism in products and services is on the rise.
Terrorism and radicalization are a source of concern.
Measures that must be taken:
The new system should be founded on three principles:
Coexistence that is peaceful
First and foremost, the Asian Century must be defined in terms of peaceful coexistence, with post-colonial sovereignty frozen.
Non-interference in other countries' domestic affairs.
For sustainable development, build technological superiority in artificial intelligence (AI), cyber and space, agriculture, and knowledge-based economies.
Trade fundamentals have changed.
New trade principles focusing on equitable, sustainable, and inclusive growth are being developed.
Public health, agriculture research, renewable energy and batteries, and even AI, whose value is derived from shared data, should all be considered global public goods.
Values of civilisation:
Ancient civilisational ideals give the intellectual underpinnings for reshaping both the economic order and human behavior in order to achieve equitable and long-term growth.
For example, the Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ idea.
Steps to take:
India's participation in multilateral forums, the Neighbourhood First policy, and the marine domain are all areas where development should take place.
If India is to impact the world order, it must develop its own distinct perspective and look beyond China and Pakistan's confinement.
India must strengthen its strategic and commercial ties with all parties in order to meet its obligations on time.
The Quad, as it is in its early stages, requires more clarity in terms of its objectives.
By changing the Commonwealth, India can play a significant role.
All countries must respect the freedom of navigation and overflight, which must be governed by a rules-based system.
Willingness to fight terrorism in all of its forms and manifestations.
India's foreign policy must serve the twin objectives of domestic economic development and regional peace and stability.
Conclusion:
India should form a global triad in the post-truth era, which is defined by technology and trade rather than geography.