German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the old world order is gone, replaced by a more unstable environment characterized by great power competition and a focus on national interests.
At the Munich Security Conference, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared the end of the old world order, emphasizing that the international system based on laws and rules no longer exists. He highlighted the transition into an era defined by the politics of power and competition among great powers, stressing that this new reality presents more significant risks on the global stage.
During his speech, Merz pointed to Russia's war against Ukraine as the most vivid manifestation of this new order, illustrating the challenges faced by the international community in managing conflict and maintaining stability. He criticized China's systematic use of other nations' dependencies to redefine the international order in ways that serve its objectives, underscoring the complexities of contemporary geopolitical relationships.
Merz's remarks reflect a historical shift from the unipolar world that emerged after the fall of the Berlin Wall. He indicated that the dominance of the United States is now challenged by a multipolar environment, with implications for countries worldwide as they navigate their foreign policies in this increasingly competitive landscape.
