Paper: GS – II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: Global issues, Issue: Changes in multipolarity.
Context:
Europe and the West are moving towards internal pluralism, reducing dependence on U.S. dominance. It explores India’s diplomatic opportunities arising from this new geopolitical dynamic.
Key Highlights:
Background: The Idea of the ‘West’:
- Post–World War II: The “West” emerged as a political and strategic bloc under U.S. leadership, united against communism and the Soviet Union.
- Post–Cold War: U.S. dominance continued with the expansion of NATO, the EU, and the G7.
- 21st Century Shift: Rise of China, Russian resurgence, and America’s inward turn under Trump challenged this unity.
Emerging Multipolarity within the West:
- Donald Trump’s ‘America First’ nationalism questioned alliances, NATO commitments, and global institutions which triggered Europe’s search for strategic autonomy, reducing its overreliance on Washington.
- Technological and industrial sovereignty became Europe’s focus, especially in domains such as AI, digital, and green energy sectors. Countries like France and Germany are leading this drive for independent defence and foreign policy.
- Signs of a Loosely Knit Western Order can be seen in divergent approaches towards China (economic engagement vs. security concern), Handling of Russia (varying stances between Eastern and Western Europe) and Trade and industrial policy (U.S. protectionism vs. EU multilateralism).
- Europe–UK realignments as seen in Keir Starmer’s trade outreach to India and EFTA nations reflects post-Brexit diversification.
India’s Strategic Opportunities:
- Diversifying partnerships: India is engaging not just the U.S. but also Europe, the UK, Japan, and Australia.
- EU–India cooperation (2025): Joint Communication outlines cooperation in digital infrastructure, defence, and supply chains through the Global Gateway Programme.
- Balanced diplomacy: India’s ability to handle the U.S.–China rivalry and Western divergence reflects its strategic maturity.
Challenge for India: Despite global recognition, India under-leverages opportunities arising from Western pluralism due to limited economic integration with Europe and slow progress in trade negotiations (e.g., EU–India FTA).
Conclusion:
India must deepen ties with EU, UK, Japan, and other Western democracies on issue-based coalitions and accelerate FTA talks and align with green and digital transitions in Europe to get the maximum advantage.
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