Practical steps taken to build a multipolar world since 2000

16.08.2023
Speech at the Global Conference on Multipolarity, 29 April 2023.

The theoretical basis for multipolarity is provided by various theories and concepts of international relations, which include:

1. Realism: The theory of realism implies that power is a key factor in relations between states. In a multipolar world system, many states have a balance of power, and none of them has overwhelming power. Under such a system, states must act in the common interest and avoid armed conflict.

2. Constructivism: This is the approach where norms, values and beliefs have a significant influence on the development of international relations. In a multipolar world system, states can cooperate and compete on the basis of shared norms and values.

3. World systems theory: the basic idea is that the international system is a complex chain of interactions between states. In a multipolar system, several actors have influence in different spheres and regions of the world, and these actors interact in a complex system.

4. The theory of complex interdependence: states are supposed to depend on each other in many different areas, such as the economy, international security, and environmental protection. States must cooperate to find solutions to global problems and maximize their economic interests.

Thus, we can conclude that the theory of multipolarity is based on the fact that international actors have influence and power in different spheres and regions of the world, and none of them can unilaterally impose their will on the others.

The formation of a multipolar world is a complex process that included certain stages up to the present day:

1. the weakening of the existing unipolar world: this is the result of a number of factors, such as the loss of leadership and power by certain states, as in the case of the United States.

2. The emergence of new actors in the international arena: new powers seeking to exert their influence on the international system. These can be states and international organizations as well as non-state actors.

3. Competition among international actors: the emergence of new international actors creates competition between them for influence and power in different regions of the world. Competition can lead to conflicts and tensions between different actors.

4. Formation of political blocks and strategic alliances: when competition arises, international actors can form political blocks and strategic alliances in order to increase their influence in the international system. Blocks can be formed following geographic, ideological, cultural or economic principles, resulting, as a consequence, in a bigger economic interdependence.

5. Balance of power: As political blocs and strategic alliances are formed, there is an equalization of power between different international actors. The balance of power can be volatile and change over time as certain actors increase or lose their influence and power.

6. Consolidation of proponents of a multipolar world: Finally, if the balance of power is maintained and sustained over the long term, it may be a consolidation of proponents of a multipolar world.

Thus, the theory of multipolarity has been associated with certain stages of building a multipolar world, affecting the period from 2000 to 2023.

1. China's rise as a global power: China has seen rapid economic growth in recent decades, prompting many analysts to consider it an emerging global power. China's new role has increased the number of international actors that possess influence and power in the international system.

2. Russia's "reset". Russia is playing an integral role internationally.

3. War in Syria: The war in Syria has affected many international actors, such as the U.S., Russia, Turkey and Iran. The armed confrontation in Syria is an example of a conflict that takes place in a multipolar international system, as the interests of many international actors directly depend on the situation.

4. Ukrainian crisis: Ukrainian crisis affected US, Russia, European Union and NATO countries. According to multipolarity theory, the crisis in Ukraine is an example of a conflict that occurs in a multipolar international system because the interests of many international actors directly depend on the outcome of the confrontation.

Thank you very much!