Middle powers must make choice in rebuilding global order

The Munich Security Conference (MSC) CEO Benedikt Franke asserts that the future global order will not emerge from the bottom-up, top-down nor from the Global South, but from middle powers that have much to lose from a decline in global governance and the power to change it. Franke, speaking with The Jakarta Post's Yvette Tanamal, discusses the MSC's expansion beyond its traditional Western base, including greater engagement with Global South countries.

Franke explains that the MSC, originally focused on uniting European and US security elites post-World War II, has worked hard in recent years to incorporate the Global South. He emphasizes that this is not a superficial move, but rather an effort to add vital perspectives to discussions on global trade, economic stability, and the growing influence of China, which cannot be isolated from this region.

The Global South plays a crucial role in addressing issues such as the future of global governance, avoiding double standards and structural disadvantages faced by developing nations, and incentivizing their constructive role in the global system. Franke acknowledges the challenges faced by countries like Indonesia, which must balance development, population needs, and stability while avoiding conflicts that could be avoided.

However, he argues that such a position is unsustainable and calls for a more proactive approach from middle powers in shaping the global order.