Embracing the Liberal Order in an Anarchic World

In an anarchic world where governments persistently pursue their own interests, the spectre of conflict looms high. Recent conflicts in Europe and the Middle East have demonstrated the fragility of peace, acting as a continual reminder of the instability inherent in international relations. Nonetheless, among the turbulence, collaboration emerges as a critical conduit for states seeking to safeguard their interests. The liberal order of the international arena plays an important role in this regard, providing frameworks for collaboration through several platforms.

Historically, institutions such as the United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU) have played important roles in promoting dialogue and settling disagreements. Despite their fundamental importance, their performance is frequently hampered by institutional inefficiencies and the inherent difficulties of reaching agreement among large numbers of member states. This has resulted in a growing understanding that traditional multilateralism may not always be sufficient to meet the complexities of the current global landscape.

In response to these constraints, a new inclination has emerged: minilateralism. Unlike typical multilateral methods, which may become mired down by bureaucracy and competing interests, minilateralism focuses on smaller, issue-specific agreements. By focusing on specific topics, like security, trade, or climate change, these frameworks provide more meaningful outcomes for all parties involved. This focused approach enables governments to interact more effectively, resulting in faster decision-making and real solutions for essential global concerns.

This trend towards minilateralism highlights the liberal order’s dynamic character while reaffirming its fundamental ideals. In a world without a central authority to oversee state interactions, these smaller agreements allow states to pursue their own interests while yet working together. These smaller, more specific partnerships provide substantial potential to nations such as Pakistan to strengthen their diplomatic presence both regionally and worldwide.

The recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit held in Pakistan in Oct 2024 is testament to the growing importance of minilateralism whereby the member states signed eight agreements in one session, a feat impossible within multilateral forums with expanded memberships. Pakistani Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, referred to the SCO as a “beacon of multilateralism,” and expressed confidence in member nations’ joint ability to construct a more affluent and secure future. This declaration demonstrates Pakistan’s willingness to collaborate on a global scale, showing the country’s preparedness to play a constructive role in building regional cooperation and stability.

Furthermore, the SCO allows member nations to undertake minilateral one-on-one interactions with top Pakistani leadership. Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, stated that “Pakistan made its mark on the world stage,” emphasising the praise that was received from international guests for Pakistan’s substantial regional role. This acknowledgement demonstrates that Pakistan has the capacity to lead through strategic minilateral partnerships.

However, it is worth noting here that Pakistan’s neighbour and historic rival India, has actively increased its engagement in multiple minilateral platforms such as the Quad, I2U2, and trilateral framework comprising the UAE, India, and France. India’s focused engagement in such endeavors boosts its diplomatic position and fosters strategic relationships, emphasising the significance of Pakistan participating in these venues to improve its own influence and joint efforts in the region.

The moment has arrived for Pakistan to fully embrace minilateralism as an important part of its foreign strategy. By participating in smaller, more specific frameworks, Pakistan may strengthen connections with key partners and solve common concerns such as security, trade, and climate change. This proactive strategy can help Pakistan gain diplomatic influence and develop a constructive atmosphere that benefits all parties concerned. It may also assist in strengthening its regional and global position to work towards goals which are consistent with its neighbors and partners. Such participation will help Pakistan form coalitions around crucial problems, building a feeling of unity that goes beyond regional rivalries.

Embracing the growing global liberal order will provide Pakistan with all the necessary tools to effectively manage the intricacies of its growing relations and establish itself as a significant actor in a collaborative global society. For example, by actively participating in regional initiatives aimed at security, economic development, and climate resilience, Pakistan can improve its diplomatic relations, attract foreign investment, and foster trust among neighbouring countries, resulting in a more interconnected and peaceful region. The problems of an anarchic world are enormous, but minilateralism and cooperative frameworks offer a path to a more stable and secure future for all countries involved.

In this transforming landscape, leveraging the potential of collaboration is critical. Countries must acknowledge that common issues necessitate joint responses. Ultimately, focusing on minilateralism along with multilateralism would not only protect national interests, but will also contribute to a more peaceful global society by encouraging mutual respect and understanding among states.