Why is bilateralism overtaking multilateralism in international affairs, as stated by Nirmala Sitharaman?

Analyzing the shift towards bilateral arrangements and its implications in the realm of international relations.
  • Increased focus on national interests: Bilateralism allows countries to prioritize their own interests without being influenced by a larger group.
  • Efficiency and effectiveness: Bilateral agreements can be faster to negotiate and implement, leading to quicker results compared to lengthy multilateral negotiations.
  • Flexibility and customization: Bilateral arrangements can be tailored to specific needs and circumstances of the countries involved, offering more flexibility than rigid multilateral frameworks.
  • Rising skepticism towards multilateralism: Some countries are turning away from multilateralism due to concerns about loss of sovereignty, inefficiency, and lack of tangible outcomes.
  • Implications: The shift towards bilateralism may lead to a more fragmented global order, potentially undermining efforts for global cooperation and consensus-building.
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