Towards a functional, inclusive multilateralism fit for the 21st Century

This policy brief discusses the need to update the multilateral system, take the current international power structure into account, and react to the pressing challenges of the 21st century. Global problems like climate change, the loss of biodiversity, and poverty are also security issues and must be reflected in institutional design. The authora argues for revamping the multilateral system with permanent institutions and a comprehensive approach to global problem-solving. As part of this process, we need to redefine influence, moving away from a definition based primarily on military and economic aspects and towards one that encompasses criteria such as the ability and willingness to contribute to finding solutions to global problems. Going forward, the success of the multilateral system will rely on states and regions successful transitioning to more sustainable and resilient societies and economies. This will require the inclusion of new actors in the global decision-making process along with new financial contributions, promoted by the G20, that support the transition of societies. To achieve this, the author calls on the G20 to accelerate institutional reform by admitting the African Union and the ‘vulnerable 20’ into its group, and promote the reform of international financial institutions. Finally, a precondition for further international funding is a traceable mechanism for transparency and good governance.