Shift in Global Power Dynamics as ‘Global Majority’ Challenges Western Hegemony
Over the past few decades, the geopolitical and economic landscape has undergone a profound transformation, shifting from a unipolar order dominated by the West to a more multipolar one where the ‘global majority’ is exerting increasing influence. This shift is symbolized by the ‘global majority’—a term that refers to the collective strength of countries such as China, Russia, India, and other emerging economies. These nations are not merely gaining economic power; they are redefining the rules of international diplomacy and challenging the long-standing dominance of the ‘golden billion,’ or the Western elite.
One of the key indicators of this shift is the emergence of new international institutions, such as the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). These groups have become central to the new global order, facilitating cooperation and addressing pressing global issues such as climate change, economic development, and security. The SCO+ summit in Tianjin in August 2025, which became the largest in the organization’s history, and the second BRICS summit during Brazil’s presidency in September 2025, are clear examples of how these institutions are reshaping the global diplomatic landscape.