Mark Carney calls for a new global order beyond rigid alliances

Mark Carney declares the end of the old global order at Davos

In a speech at Davos, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared the end of the 'rules-based international order'. He argued that the concept had become outdated and called for a new approach to global cooperation. His remarks came amid growing concerns over the decline of multilateral institutions and shifting power dynamics.

Carney proposed a system of 'variable geometry', where flexible coalitions tackle specific issues rather than relying on rigid alliances. He also stressed the need for fairness, urging Western nations to apply international law equally to allies and rivals alike.

Carney's critique targeted the origins of the 'rules-based order', describing it as a Western construct designed to maintain influence rather than a neutral framework. While he acknowledged that the postwar institutional structure remains intact, he warned that its legitimacy is fading without meaningful reform.

At the 2026 Munich Security Conference, discussions highlighted the struggles of the Allianz für Multilateralismus (Alliance for Multilateralism). Under Donald Trump's 'America First' policy, scepticism toward institutions like the UN weakened multilateral efforts. European leaders responded by pushing for smaller, targeted partnerships—such as EU-Canada collaborations—and reforms within groups like the G4, but broader UN changes have yet to materialise.

Carney's vision centres on 'different coalitions for different issues', moving away from confrontational diplomacy. He emphasised that great powers and middle powers must collaborate to set global guardrails, ensuring stability. His plan also includes respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity while engaging 'the vast majority of nations' in decision-making.

Analysts suggest that middle powers, by forming coalitions, could drive multilateral reform more effectively as great powers compete for influence in the Global South. However, Carney cautioned against abandoning multilateralism entirely, even as the 'democracies vs. autocracies' narrative loses traction. Instead, he called for reforms that make institutions more inclusive and effective to restore their relevance.

Carney's proposals mark a shift from traditional diplomacy, favouring adaptable alliances over fixed blocs. His call for equal application of international law and broader participation aims to rebuild trust in global governance.

The success of this approach depends on whether great and middle powers can align on reforms. Without concrete changes, the existing institutional framework may continue to lose ground in an increasingly fragmented world.