Multilateralism in a Changing Global Order: Prospects for India–EU Cooperation

Abstract

The global order is facing turmoil in multifaceted ways and prospects of international cooperation have been stymied by a rising tide of geopolitics and populist nationalism. Events like Brexit, the US retreat from key international institutions, China’s assertiveness through economic overtures and the development of alternative institutions all have created a deep void in global leadership. The COVID-19 pandemic has further atrophied multilateral efforts to deal with global emergencies. The rise of new forces such as emerging economies, regional arrangements, non-state actors and multi-stakeholder partnerships are challenging the traditional multilateral architecture. Amidst this turbulence and uncertainty about what the future holds, there is an ever stronger imperative to revive multilateralism and coordinate international action on critical issues. India and the EU strongly share this sentiment and can work together to offer new narratives for reconfiguring the global order. Despite some misplaced perceptions, both actors have found congruence on key issues like counterterrorism, climate change, cyberspace and aligning strategies in Indo-Pacific. The chapter discusses implications of a changing global order for India–EU relations and prospects for better synchronisation of efforts towards a rules-based global order.