Minilateralism, a term describing small, informal coalitions of countries, is becoming an increasingly influential force in shaping the global order. Unlike multilateralism, which involves broad, formal collaborations among many countries, minilateralism focuses on targeted cooperation among a few states that share common interests or challenges. This flexibility allows countries to address specific issues efficiently without the constraints of larger, slower multilateral frameworks.
Source:- bbc news
The rise of minilateralism can be attributed to the shifting global landscape, where traditional institutions like the UN and WTO have struggled with inefficiency, especially amid tensions between powers like the US and China. In this context, minilateral arrangements—such as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) and more recently the “Squad” of the US, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines—have emerged to address regional security issues, like maritime tensions in the South China Sea, in a more focused manner.
Source:- news 18
Minilateral initiatives are typically voluntary and non-binding, making them more flexible and faster in decision-making compared to formal agreements. They can be especially useful in regions facing specific challenges, like the Indo-Pacific, where the rapid formation of issue-specific alliances can bypass the stagnation seen in larger, multilateral settings. However, this approach also carries risks, including potential fragmentation of global governance and a reduction in countries’ engagement with broader international frameworks.
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