Evolution is an inevitable process, and despite the efforts of those in world politics, it is impossible to halt its progress. After the Second World War, the neo-demographic system collapsed, leading to a prolonged period of conflict between two contrasting economic systems: capitalism and communism. Eventually, the Soviet Union dissolved, marking the end of that era. Now, the world finds itself in a new phase of economic conditions. As a new era of global politics dawns, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) emerges as a crucial player in this transformation.
The upcoming SCO summit is a significant event, given the organization’s growing influence. It is essential to understand the implications of every move made by the SCO, as it plays a pivotal role in the emerging global political landscape. Led by China, the SCO aims to challenge the notion of global dominance by a single power, instead advocating for a multipolar world through the establishment of similar organizations. To comprehend these evolutionary strategic changes, it is necessary to analyze the conditions under which they are occurring, the current state of the world system, and the foundational principles that should underpin the new global order.
The post-World War II system is perceived as a successor to the colonial era, characterized by indirect control rather than direct policies of direct occupation. The powerful countries often exert influence over developing nations through economic means, ensuring that these nations remain within their sphere of influence.
As a result, developing countries frequently feel entrapped by strategies designed to keep them under control. This dynamic is reminiscent of the metaphor of elephants fighting, where the grass gets trampled.
To maintain hegemony, powerful nations frequently intervene in the economic affairs of developing countries. They employ various strategies to prevent these nations from achieving economic independence. This intervention often leads to industrial decline and economic stagnation, as the developing countries are unable to break free from the grip of the more powerful nations. Furthermore, powerful countries sometimes sponsor separatism, extremism, and terrorism, disregarding established political ethics to maintain their dominance.
The post-World War II system, established by the Allied powers, has largely failed to create a fair and just global order. Institutions like the United Nations (UN) have been undermined, and their credibility eroded, as demonstrated by the invasion of Iraq and the subsequent decline in trust in the UN. The promises made by these institutions have often amounted to little, leaving developing countries disillusioned and distrustful of the global system.
In response to the failures of the post-World War II system, the SCO advocates for a new world order based on mutual trust, equality, and common development. The Shanghai Spirit embodies the principles of mutual respect, mutual benefit, and the protection of the rights of small and weak countries. It aims to ensure that these countries are not overwhelmed by force or coercion.
The SCO’s primary objective is to take joint measures to protect the common interests of its member states, enabling them to achieve strategic autonomy. This goal includes making external intervention in the region a thing of the past and addressing security issues through mutual cooperation.
The SCO envisions a world where countries collaborate to resolve their differences and work together towards regional security and development.
China’s Global Security Initiative serves as a leading framework for achieving this goal. The initiative encourages SCO member countries to resolve their differences collectively and to work together towards regional security. By fostering mutual trust and cooperation, the SCO aims to create a more stable and secure environment for its member states.
The SCO holds particular significance for Pakistan, as both Pakistan and India are members of the organization. For the SCO to achieve its objectives, it is crucial for India to engage sincerely in resolving its issues with Pakistan. Likewise, Pakistan must carefully consider its diplomatic relations to ensure that its commitment to the SCO does not result in distancing itself from other nations. This balance is challenging but not insurmountable.
For Pakistan, the SCO offers an opportunity to engage in a framework that prioritizes mutual trust and cooperation. It provides a platform for Pakistan to address its security concerns and to work towards regional stability. However, this commitment should not lead to a complete severance of ties with other countries.
Instead, Pakistan must navigate its relationships carefully, ensuring that it remains committed to the SCO while maintaining its diplomatic engagements with other nations.
Similarly, India must recognize the importance of the SCO and its principles of mutual respect and cooperation. By engaging sincerely with Pakistan and other member countries, India can contribute to the stability and security of the region. The SCO offers a platform for India to demonstrate its commitment to regional peace and development.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization represents a significant shift towards a new global order based on mutual trust, equality, and common development. As the SCO continues to grow in influence, it is essential to understand its actions and the implications for the current world system. The SCO’s commitment to strategic autonomy, regional security, and the protection of the rights of all member countries offers a promising framework for a more just and equitable global order.
The upcoming summit will be a critical moment in the ongoing evolution of global politics. It will provide an opportunity for the SCO to demonstrate its commitment to its principles and to outline its vision for the future. As the world continues to evolve, the SCO will play a crucial role in shaping the new global order, ensuring that the rights of small and weak countries are protected and that mutual trust and cooperation are the guiding principles of international relations.
The dawn of this new era in global politics is an opportunity for the world to move beyond the failures of the past and embrace a future based on mutual respect and collaboration. The SCO’s vision of a multipolar world, where countries work together to address common challenges, offers a path towards a more just and peaceful global order. As the SCO continues to grow in influence, it will be essential to remain vigilant and to understand the implications of its actions, ensuring that the principles of the Shanghai Spirit guide the future of international relations.
Dr. Sahibzada Muhammad Usman: Postdoctoral Fellow, Global Engagement Academy, School of Culture and Communication, Shandong University (Weihai). Dr. Usman has participated in various national and international conferences and published 30 research articles in international journals.
Fatime Mehdi: Researcher at the University of Siena, Italy.