Paper: GS-II, Subject: International Relation, Topic: Global Issues, Issue: USAs Selective multilateralism
Context:
The US announced it would withdraw from 66 international bodies, including 31 in the UN system, signalling a major shift in how Washington engages global institutions. The move reflects a broader pattern of reversible multilateral commitments (exit – rejoin – exit), seen across UNESCO and climate frameworks across administrations.
Key Points: The Shift to Multilateralism à la carte:
- The US is increasingly selecting international institutions that serve its interests, bypassing or disabling those that don’t, and exiting those that impose constraints.
- This approach marks a departure from the traditional US commitment to multilateralism and a move towards leveraging power over adhering to rules.
Examples of US Actions:
- Withdrawal: Exiting UNESCO, the Paris Agreement, and numerous UN bodies.
- Obstruction: Blocking the appointment of appellate judges at the WTO and delaying the adoption of net-zero framework for shipping at the International Maritime Organization.
- Bypass: Forming selective coalitions like the Pax Silica initiative instead of working through established multilateral frameworks.
- Conditionality: Exiting the UN Human Rights Council and cutting funding to UNRWA, linking engagement to alignment with US interests.
- Making participation in multilateral institutions contingent on specific conditions and interests.
Consequences of the US Approach:
- Erosion of trust and reciprocity in the multilateral system.
- Hedging by allies and smaller states seeking patrons.
- Fragmentation of the international system and proliferation of standards.
- Increased inequality in shaping global norms and standards.
The Broader Impact:
- The US is shifting from converting strength into consent through multilateral institutions to prioritizing flexibility and short-term gains.
- The global system is being reshaped, with the future structure uncertain.
Way Forward:
For India:
- Strengthen coalitions of continuity: Work with EU, Japan, ASEAN, Africa, and middle powers.
- Lead “issue-based multilateralism”: build credible coalitions in climate adaptation finance, global health, and digital public infrastructure.
- Norm-setting strategy: proactively shape standards in AI, cyber, semiconductors, and supply chains to avoid being rule-taker.
For the multilateral system
- Reform, not retreat: improve transparency, efficiency, and representation to reduce the incentive for great-power exits.
- Build redundancy: alternative dispute settlement, multi-donor funding, and regional implementation to keep regimes running despite withdrawals.
US “multilateralism à la carte” turns governance transactional, favouring leverage over rules. It brings flexibility but erodes legitimacy, raises coordination costs, and fragments of systems. India must defend stability while shaping coalitions and standards.
Source: (The Indian Express)
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