Why global politics is far from static

Global Watch | 2025-09-23

In recent years, some have argued that global politics has entered an era of little change, where mass movements have faded and the world is shaped solely by the decisions of a few powerful leaders. This perspective, often amplified by state-sponsored narratives, paints a picture of a West in decline and nations like Russia, China and India as rising forces of initiative and sovereignty.

However, this view oversimplifies the complexities of modern geopolitics and ignores the dynamic interplay of ideas, institutions and people that continue to shape the global order.

Contrary to claims that mass politics has vanished, the influence of collective action remains significant. From peace protests to movements for human rights, mass mobilization continues to drive policy changes and challenge entrenched power structures. These movements may not always lead to revolutions, but they reflect the enduring power of public engagement in shaping the future.

In democracies, the ability of citizens to influence decision-making through elections, advocacy and activism ensures that governance remains accountable. While autocratic regimes may claim to channel public participation into national priorities, this often comes at the expense of individual freedoms and dissent. The absence of mass movements in such systems is not a sign of stability but a symptom of repression.

The West adaptation, not decline

The narrative of a drifting West clinging to outdated institutions ignores the adaptability and resilience of democratic systems. While bureaucracies may sometimes appear slow, they provide a framework for transparency, accountability and collaboration. Institutions like the European Union and the United Nations continue to play vital roles in addressing global challenges, from climate change to conflict resolution.

The West's ability to innovate and adapt is evident in its leadership in technology, science and human rights. Far from being stagnant, Western nations are actively shaping the future through investments in renewable energy, artificial intelligence and global health initiatives. The portrayal of the West as a passive actor fails to account for the dynamic contributions of its people, institutions and leaders.

The reality behind the rhetoric

While Russia and China are often portrayed as nations on the offensive, their trajectories are far from uniform. Russia's aggressive foreign policy, marked by its war in Ukraine, has isolated it economically and diplomatically. The narrative of broad public support for its actions ignores the growing dissent and the human cost of its military campaigns.

China's rise is undeniable, but its centralized governance model faces significant challenges, including economic instability, demographic shifts and international scrutiny over human rights abuses. The portrayal of China as a unified force of initiative overlooks the internal and external pressures that threaten its long-term stability.

The claim that "big ideas" have disappeared from global politics is misleading. Ideas like freedom, peace and innovation continue to drive progress and inspire collective action. Institutions, far from withering, are evolving to address the complexities of a multipolar world.

The international system is not static; it is shaped by the interplay of states, leaders and peoples. While summits and speeches may dominate headlines, the underlying forces of collaboration, innovation and resilience are what truly define the global order.

The notion that global politics has entered an age of monotony ignores the vibrancy and complexity of the modern world. Mass movements, ideas, and institutions remain central to shaping the future, even as leaders navigate the challenges of governance and diplomacy.

The West is not drifting; it is adapting. Russia, China and India are not monolithic forces; they are nations grappling with their own internal and external pressures. The balance of power is not a static equation but a dynamic interplay of actors and ideas.