Question

Discuss the key issue of Multilateral process and its structure ( Aviation subject)

Answer 1

The multilateralism has been a dominant idea and practice in post World War II international relations. Multilateralism as an idea and practice of relations among nations is based on the principle of diffused reciprocity (Unlike the one to one reciprocity in bilateralism or absence of reciprocity in unilateralism), common interest of nations, and collective and cooperative approach to achieve those interests.

At present, the multilateralism is facing the following important threats:

1. Trump’s ‘America First’ Policy: leading to unilateral withdrawal of America from the Paris Climate Change deal, Iranian nuclear deal, abrogation of proposed Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade pact, tightening of immigration regime.

2. Protectionism in Trade: leading to US trade war with China and US trade differences with Canada and Mexico (renegotiation of NAFTA), European countries and India. This has weakened the multilateral trade regime of WTO.

3. Populism and rising Nationalism in Europe: Europe’s reaction on Middle East refugee crisis, BREXIT and nationalist parties gaining power in many countries.

4. Selective multilateralism of China and Russia: Both countries follow multilateralism til it helps them. Otherwise resort to unilateralism: Russian policies in Ukraine and Syria; and Chinese practices on human right, trade and South China Sea.