The diplomacy challenges in a multilateral world

The diplomacy challenges in a multilateral world

After the Cold War, the U.S. enjoyed significant hegemony in the geopolitical world. In the subsequent 50 years, the U.S. defeated the Soviet Union, Saddam Hussein in Iraq, and emerged as a global economic power. Over half a century,the U.S. faced no significant rival due to its dominance.During the Bush Administration and under Secretary of State Baker, a debate arose: Should the U.S. maintain its influence unilaterally in the international arena, or extend it to other countries? Could the revival of older allies such as China and Russia be conceivable? The second option was adopted. According to Stewart M. Patrick, a fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, the political scientist advocated for "multilateralism à la carte." He argued that it is important to give other nations a voice in agreements such as climate accords, nuclear deals, and to align domestic policies with foreign allies. However, he noted that States often adopt policies based on perceived benefits rather than a comprehensive multilateral approach. He coined the term "sovereignty wars" to describe ideological battles over the extent to which nations should be autonomous and free from external interference. Brexit in the U.K. is an example of a sovereignty war. Diplomacy, in my opinion, plays a crucial role in preventing and resolving sovereignty wars by facilitating dialogue,offering economic incentives, and promoting adherence to international law, especially through the work of international institutions in our globalized world. Many countries are economically interdependent, and this leverage can serve as a deterrence strategy for many conflicts, both armed and political.However, one criticism presented in the article "The Lost Art of American Diplomacy" by William Burns is that U.S.diplomacy has lost its core mission. The U.S. has focused on nation-building and stabilization, which could be shifted to representing U.S. interests abroad. Burns advocates for a reform of the State Department. I agree that while we need to maintain our military edge, the diplomatic corps also needs to expand its training and personnel to be as influential as it was after World War II. Another criticism is that since the Afghanistan war, diplomatic efforts have relied heavily on military instruments, which can potentially fuel terrorism. With Trump's possible reelection, it will be difficult to adhere to these values as he attempted to disrupt many international agreements with the justification of "America First," protectionist policies, and attacks on democracy. The unfolding events are at least alarming.The U.S. has transitioned from isolationism to interventionism over the past decades. The nation's ability to navigate these competing perspectives and effectively implement its foreign policy will be crucial in shaping the future of the new liberal order.