The World on Edge: A Geopolitical Analysis of Rising Conflicts and Their Impact

The international system has entered a period of intense instability and upheaval. From shifting alliances to the rise of new power dynamics, the world is experiencing a dramatic reshaping of conflict landscapes, political maneuvers, and economic ties. This shift is marked by a resurgence of hard power, as defined by Joseph Nye, which manifests in the reliance on military and economic might. This trend is reflected in the escalating tensions across the globe, including the war in Ukraine, the conflict in Gaza, and the resurgence of violence in Sudan and the Red Sea. The recent report by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) highlights this alarming trend, noting a significant decline in global peace levels with 56 ongoing conflicts, the highest number since World War II. These developments have significant implications for the future of the international order and require a deeper understanding of the complex interconnections and dynamics driving these conflicts.