Can Multilateralism Survive the Rise of Populism?

Multilateralism has long underpinned global cooperation, fostering collaboration on economic growth, security, human rights, and climate action. However, the ascendancy of populism in various parts of the world is testing this framework, casting doubt on the future of institutions such as the United Nations (UN), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and regional alliances like the European Union (EU). As populist leaders champion nationalism, economic protectionism, and unilateral decision-making, the question arises: can multilateralism endure in this shifting political landscape?

The Rise of Populism: A Global Challenge to Multilateralism

Populism, often characterised by its appeal to “the people” against “the elite,” has gained momentum across both developed and developing nations. Leaders such as Donald Trump in the United States, Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil, Narendra Modi in India, and Viktor Orbán in Hungary have adopted nationalist rhetoric, advocating for policies that prioritise national sovereignty over global commitments. This often translates into withdrawing from international agreements, curbing migration, and enacting protectionist economic measures.

Economic insecurity, growing inequality, and cultural anxieties have fuelled this populist resurgence, leading to an erosion of trust in global institutions. Many populist leaders argue that multilateral organisations primarily serve the interests of elites and multinational corporations rather than the general public, reinforcing scepticism about globalisation. This narrative fosters resistance to international cooperation, portraying it as a threat to national autonomy.

Challenges to Multilateralism

Retreat from International Agreements

One of the most immediate consequences of populism has been the withdrawal from international treaties and organisations. The Trump administration’s exit from the Paris Agreement, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), and UNESCO weakened collective efforts in climate action, trade, and cultural diplomacy. Brexit, driven by sovereignty concerns, epitomised a rejection of regional integration, raising questions about the resilience of the EU.

Undermining Global Institutions

Populist leaders often challenge the legitimacy of international institutions, either by cutting funding or obstructing decision-making processes. The WTO has faced an existential crisis as trade disputes escalate, with some leaders questioning its authority. Similarly, the UN, reliant on consensus-driven governance, has struggled to assert itself amid nationalist pushback, limiting its effectiveness in crisis management and peacekeeping.

Protectionism and Economic Nationalism

Economic nationalism, a hallmark of populist governance, has led to trade wars, tariffs, and disruptions in global supply chains. The US-China trade war underscored a shift away from multilateral trade agreements towards bilateral negotiations, undermining the principles of free trade. Protectionist policies not only weaken economic interdependence but also threaten the stability of global markets.

Erosion of Trust in Collective Action

The COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the fragility of global solidarity. Instead of a unified response, many nations prioritised national interests through vaccine nationalism and export restrictions. The World Health Organization (WHO) faced criticism and funding cuts, further diminishing confidence in multilateral governance. These fractures suggest that in times of crisis, states may revert to self-interest rather than cooperative solutions.

Can Multilateralism Adapt and Endure?

Despite these challenges, multilateralism remains indispensable in addressing transnational issues such as climate change, pandemics, terrorism, and financial instability—problems no single nation can resolve alone. While traditional multilateralism is under strain, several pathways could ensure its resilience

Adaptive and Issue-Based Multilateralism

Instead of relying on rigid, treaty-based organisations, the future may lie in more flexible, issue-specific coalitions. Initiatives such as the G20, climate-focused alliances, and digital trade agreements illustrate that multilateral cooperation can persist outside conventional frameworks.

Reforming Global Institutions

For institutions such as the UN and WTO to regain legitimacy, they must evolve to be more inclusive and responsive. Expanding representation for developing nations, streamlining decision-making, and addressing economic disparities could restore confidence and enhance effectiveness.

Strengthening Public Engagement

Multilateralism often suffers from a perception problem it is seen as distant, bureaucratic, and unaccountable. Greater transparency, citizen engagement, and concrete benefits such as job creation through global trade can counter populist narratives and build public support for international cooperation.

Emphasising Regional Cooperation

While global multilateralism faces setbacks, regional frameworks remain robust. The African Union, ASEAN, and the EU continue to facilitate economic and security collaborations, suggesting that regionalism may offer a pragmatic alternative in an era of nationalist sentiment.

Conclusion

Multilateralism stands at a crossroads, tested by the rise of populism and the resurgence of nationalist rhetoric. However, its survival hinges on its capacity to adapt, reform, and respond to public concerns. While traditional institutions require significant transformation, the core principles of multilateral cooperation remain essential for addressing shared global challenges. History has shown that crises often serve as catalysts for renewal. Multilateralism must seize this moment to redefine itself for the 21st century, balancing national interests with the imperatives of collective action.

Riya Kothavale is the Assistant Editorial Director of the Sixteenth Council.