Global Order Breaking Down: Why Middle Powers Must Unite

BBC News

The frameworks that have held the international community together for the last eighty years are beginning to show significant, irreversible cracks. Mark Carney, the former governor of the Bank of England and the Bank of Canada, recently issued a stark warning regarding the state of the global order. He suggests that the post-World War II era of cooperation and institutional stability is fragmenting, leaving a vacuum that could lead to a period of "expanding anarchy" if nations do not adapt quickly.

Carney’s assessment focuses on the reality that the traditional "anchors" of the global system: primarily led by the United States and supported by international bodies like the World Trade Organization: are losing their grip. In this shifting landscape, the world is no longer a simple bipolar or unipolar map. Instead, we are seeing the rise of a multipolar reality where China stands as a formidable rival power center, and the Global South increasingly asserts its own path, independent of Western expectations.

For middle powers like Canada and Australia, this breakdown presents a unique and urgent set of challenges. These nations have historically relied on a rules-based system to protect their interests and ensure economic stability. Without those rules, Carney argues that middle powers must now take a more proactive, collaborative approach. This isn't just about diplomacy; it is about strategic cooperation in the most critical sectors of the modern era: defense, artificial intelligence (AI), and critical minerals.

The shift in global trade is perhaps the most visible indicator of this fragmentation. We have moved away from a world defined by lowering tariffs and increasing open markets. Today, the focus has shifted to "chokepoints." Nations are now weaponizing access to the raw materials needed for the green energy transition and the high-tech components required for AI. If you control the lithium, the cobalt, or the high-end semiconductors, you hold the leverage.

Middle powers often possess significant natural resources or technological niches, but they lack the individual military or economic weight to withstand pressure from superpowers like the US or China. Carney’s core message is that these nations must find strength in numbers. By aligning their strategies regarding defense spending and resource stewardship, middle powers can create a "third way" that preserves their autonomy and prevents them from becoming mere pawns in a larger geopolitical game.

This period of institutional erosion is also marked by a decline in the credibility of international financial systems. While the US dollar remains the primary safe asset for now, the internal political divisions within the United States and the weaponization of financial sanctions have led other nations to seek alternatives. This creates a "muddled" global economy where different regions may operate under entirely different sets of rules and standards.

The Lens: A Threefold Cord

As we look at these headlines through the lens of faith, we are reminded of the wisdom found in Ecclesiastes 4:12: "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."

From a biblical perspective, we understand that human institutions are inherently fragile. Since the Tower of Babel, humanity has attempted to build global structures to provide security and unity apart from God. While we strive for peace and order: which are biblical values: we recognize that true, lasting stability cannot be manufactured solely through trade agreements or military alliances.

As members of the Assemblies of God tradition, we hold to the sovereignty of God over the nations. We believe that while the "global order" may shake, the Kingdom of God remains unshakable. The current fragmentation we see in the world is a reminder that our ultimate citizenship is in heaven, and our primary hope is not in the "Washington Consensus" or any earthly geopolitical strategy, but in the return of Christ.

The concept of the "threefold cord" is particularly relevant here. In a world that is pulling apart, the principle of unity and collaboration is a reflection of God’s design for community. Whether it is nations working together to protect their people or the Church standing together in a divided culture, there is strength in alignment. Stewardship is also a key theme; God has placed resources in the earth: minerals, energy, and the human intellect that creates AI: and we are called to manage these gifts with wisdom and integrity, rather than using them as weapons of control.

The breakdown of order can be a source of great anxiety. We see the "expanding anarchy" that secular analysts describe, and it can feel like the world is spinning out of control. However, the Bible tells us that God is the one who "changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings" (Daniel 2:21). Our role is not to succumb to fear, but to be the "calm in the storm," representing the peace of Christ in an era of uncertainty.

The Response: Stewardship and Prayer

In light of these global shifts, how should we respond? It is easy to feel small when faced with the "breaking of the global order," but our response should be rooted in purposeful action and spiritual discipline.

First, we must pray for wisdom for our leaders. Whether you live in a "middle power" nation or a superpower, the decisions being made today regarding AI, defense, and trade will affect generations to come. We are commanded in 1 Timothy 2:1-2 to pray for all those in authority, so that we may live peaceful and quiet lives. Pray that leaders would be moved toward cooperation rather than conflict, and that they would recognize their responsibility to protect the vulnerable.

Second, we should focus on stewardship. If the global economy is shifting toward "chokepoints" and resource competition, it is a reminder to us to be wise with what we have. This applies to our national resources and our personal finances. In times of uncertainty, the biblical principle of being a "shrewd manager" is more important than ever. We should support policies that promote ethical resource management and technological development that serves humanity rather than just seeking to dominate it.

Third, we must check our hearts for fear. The "News of the Day" can often be a conveyor belt of dread. When we hear about the erosion of institutions, we should remember that our security was never meant to be found in them. This is an opportunity to strengthen our local communities and our churches. As the global cord frays, our local "threefold cords": our families, our small groups, and our congregations: must become stronger.

Finally, we look at these developments as a prompt to share the Gospel. In a world that feels increasingly disordered, people are looking for a foundation that won't shift. The message of salvation through Jesus Christ is the only truly "safe asset" in existence. As the world fragments, the Church has a unique opportunity to demonstrate a different kind of unity: one that transcends borders, languages, and geopolitical interests.

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The world is changing rapidly, and it’s more important than ever to stay grounded in both truth and grace.

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Source: BBC News