The Rise of China and Its Impact on Global Governance: Emergence of A New World Order

Abstract

The rise of China as a global economic, political, and military power has prompted significant shifts in international relations and global governance. This paper examines China’s growing influence and its implications for the existing Western-dominated world order. With an economic ascent fueled by market reforms, infrastructure investments, and active participation in international trade networks, China is reshaping the global economic landscape. Concurrently, its political system, characterized by centralized control and state capitalism, offers an alternative to liberal democratic models, further challenging traditional governance frameworks. Through its increasing role in global organizations such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and the International Monetary Fund, China is not only asserting its influence but also advocating for reforms that reflect the changing balance of global power. Furthermore, China’s geopolitical ambitions, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, underscore its strategic intentions to foster a multipolar world order. This paper argues that China’s rise signals the potential emergence of a new world order, one that moves away from the post-World War II Western-centric governance structure, and may lead to a more distributed global system where multiple powers, including China, play pivotal roles. The implications of this shift for global governance, security, and international norms are explored, providing insight into the future trajectory of global political and economic relations.