India's Opportunity in a Shifting Global Order
As Western institutions lose legitimacy due to perceived bias, India is well positioned to provide impartial leadership. Its strategic non-alignment, global reputation, and rising influence offer a unique chance to fill the emerging legitimacy gap and boost its soft power.
The article argues that Western-led global institutions are increasingly seen as biased, especially after actions taken during the Ukraine conflict and the Gaza war, which have eroded their credibility. India, with its image of strategic non-alignment and growing global influence, is uniquely placed to step in as a leader of impartial institutions. The author highlights India's potential to introduce new global prizes and cultural initiatives, such as a Gandhi Peace Prize or AsiaVision, to outshine Western counterparts. India's positive standing across the West, East, and Global South makes it a benign and trusted candidate for leadership roles in a multipolar world. The decline of Western public support for global institutions, coupled with India's economic and military capabilities, presents a significant opportunity for New Delhi to bridge the legitimacy gap and enhance its soft power on the world stage.
