The collapse of 'world order' as an opportunity for Asia?
Key takeaways
- In Europe—unlike in Asia—changes to decades of international norms and institutional systems are often interpreted as a loss.
- https://p.dw.com/p/5Fhod An analyst says the US has 'overextended itself strategically' with conflict zones in Europe, the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific Image: U.S.
- The world order that took shape after World War II appears to have come to an end.
Why this matters: an international story with cross-border implications worth tracking.
In Europe—unlike in Asia—changes to decades of international norms and institutional systems are often interpreted as a loss. However, these changes may also mark the beginning of a new, more inclusive order.
https://p.dw.com/p/5Fhod An analyst says the US has 'overextended itself strategically' with conflict zones in Europe, the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific Image: U.S. Navy/ZUMA/picture alliance Advertisement Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine on the European Union's eastern flank, the United States' disregard and contempt for the international order under President Donald Trump, and the allegations that Israel has violated humanitarian law in the Middle East conflict have shocked many Europeans.
The world order that took shape after World War II appears to have come to an end. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated at the Munich Security Conference in February 2026: "This order, as imperfect as it was even in its best days, no longer exists in that form."