Multilateralism Past, Present and Future: A European Perspective

This book provides a critical reconstruction of the history of the idea and praxis of peaceful global governance, a comparative analysis of regional multilateral organizations, and a discussion of concrete trends and perspectives of a new multilateralism against the challenging context of the current multipolar power politics. It focuses on the changing European interplay with multilateralism, from Eurocentric cradle of civilian cooperation among sovereign imperial states to political dwarf after the two world wars and decolonization, and to potential co-leader of a multilayered and multi-actor cooperation within the current multipolar order. It addresses a theoretical "gap" by fueling the long-recognised idealism v. realism debate over international cooperation and institutionalization with both historical and new empirical insights.

Format: Hardback
Length: 422 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive and insightful book offers a vital chronological perspective on the evolution of multilateralism within Europe and beyond. It provides a critical reconstruction of the history of the idea and praxis of peaceful global governance, a comparative analysis of regional multilateral organizations, and a thoughtful exploration of concrete trends and perspectives of a new multilateralism in the context of the current multipolar power politics.

The book delves into the changing European interplay with multilateralism, tracing its journey from a Eurocentric cradle of civilian cooperation among sovereign imperial states to a political dwarf after the two world wars and the process of decolonization. It then examines the potential for Europe to emerge as a co-leader of a multilayered and multi-actor cooperation within the current multipolar order.

To address a theoretical "gap" in the study of international cooperation and institutionalization, the book combines historical and new empirical insights into the ongoing debate between idealism and realism. It sheds light on the historical roots of multilateralism, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and the various strategies employed by different countries and regional organizations to promote and sustain international cooperation.

This book is of paramount interest to scholars and students of European studies, global governance, multilateralism, international organizations, and international relations in general. It offers a wealth of knowledge and insights that will deepen their understanding of the complex dynamics of global politics and the role of multilateralism in shaping the world's future.

Weight: 776g
Dimension: 239 x 163 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032245447