Rising states, rising institutions

by Alan S. Alexandroff

The global order is shifting in an unprecedented fashion. No major war has intervened to reshape the balance of power; nor has the world seen events as dramatic as collapse of communism and end of bipolarity in 1989. Change is afoot. While the United States remains world's leading power, thanks to its combination of military and economic strength, technological prowess, and cultural appeal, Washington cannot simply impose its will on others. The European Union remains an independent force in global politics, and a host of rising states including China, India, and Brazil clamor to make their...