Through collaboration, diplomacy, and a commitment to democratic values, India and the United States can help chart a course toward a more stable and just world.
By Vipul Tamhane
The year 2024 has seen a troubling surge in global government collapses, with political systems teetering on the brink of collapse across various regions. From Bangladesh to Syria and South Korea, these crises reflect deep-rooted social, economic, and political tensions, raising serious questions about the stability of governance worldwide. With countries facing rising political instability, the resilience of democratic nations such as India and the United States is now more crucial than ever in the global landscape.
The current landscape of global political unrest
In Bangladesh, political turbulence has led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, causing a severe power vacuum. Muhammad Yunus, a prominent figure, has stepped into the political arena, but his leadership has triggered a series of violent clashes, particularly against the Hindu minority. This violence is emblematic of long-standing political rivalries and economic frustrations, heightened by allegations of corruption and mismanagement. International observers have expressed grave concern over the human rights violations in the country, calling for urgent reforms to address these issues.
In the Middle East, Syria’s instability has reached new heights. Syria's civil war which began in 2011 has reached a boiling point, culminating in the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime. The power vacuum has sparked a fierce struggle for control, with various factions vying for dominance. The displacement of millions and escalating sectarian violence have made a peaceful future seem increasingly unlikely.
Meanwhile, in South Korea, President Yoon Suk Yeol’s decision to impose martial law since last week was met with significant backlash, resulting in a parliamentary rejection of his decree. This dramatic overstep of power has sparked calls for impeachment by six opposition parties on the 4th of December, revealing the fragile nature of even the most established democracies. South Korea's example highlights the delicate balance of governance in democracies, where public trust and institutional safeguards are paramount.
Common factors and pattern of instability
From Pakistan to Peru, and from Zimbabwe to Yemen, a disturbing pattern of governance failures is emerging. Economic instability, corruption, and social unrest are common threads that weave together the collapse of governments, whether authoritarian or democratic. The recent ousting of Prime Minister Imran Khan in Pakistan, the fall of General Augusto Pinochet's regime in Chile, and the collapse of the Afghan government are just a few examples of how governance failures can spiral into broader geopolitical instability.
In each of these cases, economic crises, often characterized by inflation, unemployment, and resource mismanagement, triggered widespread public discontent. This discontent, when coupled with a perception of corruption among the ruling elite, led to demands for greater accountability and reforms. The consequences of these governance failures are far-reaching, resulting in humanitarian crises, widespread poverty, and the rise of extremist groups. The international community is grappling with how to engage with these fragile states, from the Taliban regime in Afghanistan to the military-backed government in Myanmar. The examples of Somalia, Sudan, Haiti, and Yemen serve as cautionary tales of what happens when governance fails to meet the needs of the people. As the world watches these nations struggle, it is clear that no political system is immune from collapse when governance fails.
The paradox of US foreign policy
The United States has long been a vocal advocate for democracy, but historical analysis of US foreign policy reveals a complex and often contradictory reality. Despite its professed commitment to promoting democracy globally, the US has consistently maintained close ties with authoritarian regimes, including Saudi Arabia and Vietnam. This paradox has led many to question the sincerity of the US government's claims, as it appears to prioritize its own interests over its democratic principles. The US's history of supporting autocratic regimes in the name of security and stability has created a perception of hypocrisy and double standards.
As the US continues to navigate the complexities of global politics, it must confront the contradictions in its foreign policy and reconcile its commitment to democracy with its pursuit of power and influence. The world is watching, and the US must prove that its actions match its words.
India’s delicate dance for democratic balance and stability
The relationship between India and the US has been marked by increased cooperation on issues such as trade, defense, and climate change. The two nations are also working together through the Quad, a grouping of India, the US, Japan, and Australia, to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region. However, the partnership is not without its challenges. The USA's decision to form AUKUS, a security pact with Australia and the UK, has raised concerns in India about being left out of the loop. As the two nations navigate the complexities of their relationship, they must balance their shared interests with their individual priorities. The partnership may be one of convenience, but it has the potential to shape the future of geopolitics in the region.
As India navigates its complex relationship with the US, it must exercise caution while promoting democratic values. To achieve this, India should diversify its relationships with other countries, be aware of US interests, and maintain strategic autonomy. By engaging in diplomatic dialogue, supporting US civil society, and promoting people-to-people ties, India can influence the US to promote democracy and stability in troubled nations. Additionally, India can support UN peacekeeping efforts, provide humanitarian assistance, and promote economic development in these nations. By taking these steps, India can maintain a cautious relationship with the US while promoting democratic values and stability globally.
Global democratic stance, India and the US lead by example
As the world grapples with regime collapses and political instability, India and the US must join forces to promote democracy and stability. Diplomatic engagement, humanitarian assistance, and economic aid are crucial steps in supporting nations in turmoil. By promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and peace-building efforts, India and the US can help rebuild nations with respect for human rights and democratic principles. Additionally, strengthening alliances with other democracies and advocating for democratic values can counterbalance authoritarian regimes and inspire reforms globally. Through public diplomacy and educational campaigns, India and the US can inspire citizens in struggling nations to understand the importance of democracy, human rights, and peaceful conflict resolution.
The importance of adaptive governance
The political turmoil in Syria, Bangladesh, and South Korea underscores the vulnerability of political systems to both internal and external pressures. These events highlight the importance of adaptive governance in maintaining democratic institutions. For India and the US, this means addressing issues like corruption, inequality, and social unrest before they escalate. Governments must evolve by engaging with citizens to understand their needs. In both nations, adapting to economic challenges, social unrest, and political polarization is crucial for safeguarding democracy and promoting global stability.
As the world faces a wave of government collapses and political instability, the lessons from countries like Syria, Bangladesh, and South Korea are clear; governance must be responsive, accountable, and capable of meeting the evolving needs of citizens. For India and the US, the responsibility is twofold, ensuring domestic political stability while also playing an active role in promoting global peace, democracy, and human rights. The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but through collaboration, diplomacy, and a commitment to democratic values, these two nations can help chart a course toward a more stable and just world.
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(The writer is a counter-terrorism expert and a visiting faculty with Pune University (SPPU) at the Department of Defense and Strategic Studies. He is also the founder & editor-in-chief at Diplomacy Direct, a public interest think-tank. He can be contacted at [email protected])
The views expressed are not necessarily those of The South Asian Times.
