Middle powers seek to redefine global order amid geopolitical shifts and superpower rivalry

This shift has been accelerated by the actions of superpowers, particularly the United States, under President Donald Trump, leading to disruptions in global supply systems and international relations. Consequently, middle powers and developing countries are increasingly forming alliances to reshape the global order, driven by declining trust in superpowers and international institutions like the UN. This movement is characterized by a push for multilateral foreign policy and coalition building, rather than unilateral decision-making.

Middle powers, including Canada, India, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Italy, and many G20 members, are employing "niche diplomacy" to pursue limited foreign policy objectives. While not challenging the international system's status quo, they aim to restore multilateralism under new global terms. Canada, in particular, has been active in charting new paths, as highlighted by Canadian PM Mark Carney's speech at the World Economic Forum, emphasizing the capacity of intermediate powers to build a new order based on values like human rights and sustainable development.

Canada is also diversifying its international partnerships, including strengthening ties with Ethiopia and other African nations, in response to US tariff policies and rhetoric. An event at Addis Ababa University, or