The Rise of a Multipolar World: EAM Jaishankar at Raisina Dialogue 2026

At the Raisina Dialogue 2026 in New Delhi, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar articulated a defining insight about the contemporary global order: no single country holds absolute hegemony today. His remarks underscore the transition from a unipolar or bipolar world to a multipolar structure, where global power is distributed across multiple actors rather than concentrated in one dominant nation.

EAM Jaishankar and President Stubb declare the end of Western hegemony, identifying the Global South as the new architect of a multipolar world. | Firstpost

Understanding the Shift in Global Power

Jaishankar emphasized that expecting the world order established post‑World War II or during the Cold War to remain permanent is unrealistic. He pointed out that seventy years, a short span in historical terms, is insufficient to sustain long-term global dominance. According to him, contemporary global influence is not determined solely by military might or economic size; it is also shaped by technological innovation, demographic trends, and regional expertise. The rise of new centers of power has created a landscape in which countries contribute differently across various domains, making comprehensive global control increasingly impossible.

Multipolarity and Multilateralism in the 21st Century

While some might see multipolarity as a challenge to cooperation, Jaishankar argued that it can coexist with multilateralism. In his view, countries can collaborate on specific issues while maintaining independent strategic influence. Flexibility, rather than hierarchical dominance, will define international engagement, with issue-based coalitions and regional partnerships becoming more significant in global governance.

The Emerging Role of the Global South

Jaishankar also highlighted the Global South’s growing influence. Nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America are asserting their presence in global affairs, with India positioned as a key facilitator. Initiatives like India’s vaccine diplomacy during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that leadership can emerge from cooperation, shared experiences, and practical contributions, not just traditional power hierarchies. This reflects a shift toward a more inclusive and interconnected global community.

Drivers of Modern Influence

Two central forces underpin this transformation. First, technological innovation is redefining strategic advantage, with advancements in artificial intelligence, communications, and defense shaping the contours of power. Second, demographic dynamics are critical; growing populations in Asia, Africa, and other emerging regions influence economic potential, labor markets, and geopolitical relevance. Together, these factors ensure that power remains diffused, reinforcing the multipolar reality.

Implications for India and Global Relations

For India, Jaishankar’s observations reaffirm the nation’s role as a bridge in global politics. Hosting the Raisina Dialogue allows India to shape conversations on international affairs, bringing together policymakers, military leaders, and scholars from around the world. As the world becomes multipolar, India’s strategic partnerships will need to be nuanced and flexible, emphasizing diplomacy, regional stability, and cooperation over confrontation.

The MGMM Outlook

The Raisina Dialogue 2026 highlighted the profound changes shaping the global order, with EAM S. Jaishankar emphasizing that no single nation holds absolute dominance today. The post–World War II power structures have given way to a multipolar reality, driven not just by military or economic might, but by technology, demographic trends, and regional influence. This shift has led to a landscape where countries exert specialized influence across different domains, making global control more distributed and collaboration on shared challenges increasingly essential.

India’s position in this evolving world is both strategic and facilitative. Jaishankar noted that the Global South is asserting itself, with nations across Africa, Asia, and Latin America contributing meaningfully to international affairs. India’s proactive diplomacy, exemplified by initiatives like vaccine distribution during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcases how leadership can emerge from practical cooperation rather than traditional power hierarchies. Technological advancements and demographic growth further reinforce the multipolar system, presenting India with opportunities to strengthen partnerships, enhance regional stability, and play a pivotal role in shaping a more balanced and interconnected global order.

(Sources: LiveMint, Firstpost, Economic Times)