Multilateralism Under Siege

Context:

This analysis examines the erosion of multilateralism and international legal frameworks, spotlighting U.S. policies under Donald Trump’s second term, such as the DEFUND Act and sanctions on the ICC. The article underscores the implications for global cooperation and India’s potential role, providing insights into international relations and governance dynamics as of March 21, 2025.

1. Definition: Multilateralism is a cooperative approach where multiple nations work together through institutions like the UN to address global challenges, based on shared rules and mutual benefits.
2. Core Principle: It emphasizes collective action over unilateral moves, fostering a rules-based international order to ensure stability, peace, and economic cooperation.
3. Historical Roots: Post-WWII, multilateralism birthed the UN, WTO, and ICC, driven by U.S.-led efforts to prevent isolationism and promote global governance via treaties and dialogue.
4. U.S. Shift: Trump’s “America First” policy marks a retreat, with proposals like the DEFUND Act (to exit the UN) and sanctions on ICC officials, undermining multilateral frameworks.
5. UN Threat: Multilateralism’s bedrock, the UN, faces legitimacy risks if the U.S. cuts funding and revokes immunities, hampering peacekeeping and human rights efforts.
6. Economic Aspect: Historically supported by GATT (1947) and WTO, multilateralism in trade is challenged by U.S. tariffs and WTO appellate body blockades, echoing 1930s protectionism.
7. India’s Opportunity: Amid this assault, India can champion a reformed multilateralism, leveraging its G20 role and UNSC non-permanent seat (2021-22) to push inclusivity.
8. Global Impact: The decline weakens collective responses to crises like pandemics and wars, risking a fragmented world order dominated by unilateral power plays.

Key Terms:

• Multilateralism: Cooperation among multiple nations through shared institutions and rules.
• DEFUND Act: U.S. legislation proposing withdrawal from the UN.
• ICC: International Criminal Court, adjudicating war crimes and genocide.
• UN: United Nations, a key multilateral body for global governance.
• WTO: World Trade Organization, overseeing multilateral trade rules.
• GATT: General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, a 1947 precursor to WTO.
• Rules-Based Order: International system governed by agreed laws, not might.

Link To The Original Article – https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-assault-on-multilateralism-and-international-law/article69354730.ece