Voice of the Global South

The world is undergoing significant transformations marked by ongoing geopolitical conflicts, uneven economic growth, and expanding social divides. These challenges expose the limitations of the international system established after World War II, which no longer meets the demands of current global governance.

Global Power Dynamics and Representation

Over the past 80 years, the number of United Nations member states has surged from 51 to 193, with most being developing countries. Despite this growth, emerging economies and developing nations remain severely underrepresented in key institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. This underrepresentation is a major obstacle to effective global economic governance.

The Role of the United States in the Global Order

The United States, formerly a leader and provider of international public goods, has shifted toward becoming a rent-seeker, weakening the foundation of the global system. Domestic political volatility in the U.S. has contributed to global instability, while its withdrawal from global responsibilities has diminished the effectiveness of organizations such as the G20 and the World Trade Organization.

"The United States, once a leader of the international system, has shifted from being a provider of international public goods to being a rent-seeker, eroding the foundations of the global order."

"Sharp swings in its domestic politics have fueled instability worldwide, while its retreat from global responsibilities has undermined the effectiveness of mechanisms such as the G20 and the World Trade Organization."

China's Proposal for Global Governance

China’s Global Governance Initiative presents guidance for reforming the global system to better address the needs and realities of today’s multipolar world.

Author’s summary: The current global governance system is outdated and ineffective, requiring reform to ensure fairer representation and greater stability amid shifting geopolitical and economic realities.

China Daily Global Edition — 2025-11-08