Global institutions face challenges adapting to modern power dynamics, with minilateralism emerging as a faster but less equitable alternative. The WHO's role in global health highlights the risks of institutional fragme
UN institutions face adaptation challenges
Critics argue that the United Nations system, many of its institutions established after World War II, struggles to keep pace with the shifting power dynamics of the 21st century. Divisions between states often slow decision-making, and international organizations face challenges in political power dynamics that limit their ability to act effectively.Rise of minilateralism
As a result, more restricted forms of cooperation, such as the G7 and G20, have emerged. The G7, created in 1975, is an informal forum bringing together the leaders of seven major industrialized and democratic economies, with the European Union associated with it. The G20, formed in 1999, includes 19 countries and two regional unions, expanding the consultation to major emerging economies.Effectiveness of multilateral and minilateral approaches
Global health serves as a case study for examining the effectiveness of multilateral and minilateral approaches. Research on global public goods indicates that contributions from different actors may not always combine in the same way. Some areas require close coordination, such as the control of global air traffic, while others benefit from cumulative efforts, such as climate change mitigation.Weakest link in global cooperation
The logic of the "weakest link" applies to certain common goods, where the level of protection for all depends on the contribution of the country least able to act. In the context of infectious disease monitoring, collective security depends on each country's ability to detect and report new pathogens. A local failure can have global consequences, emphasizing the need for universal multilateralism.Impact of US withdrawal from WHO
The withdrawal of the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) presents a real-world test of the risks associated with the fragmentation of international institutions. The Trump administration's questioning of international institutions has favored direct state relations and bilateral agreements, potentially leading to divergent health standards and fragmented cooperation networks.Reform for multilateral institutions
Reform rather than renunciation is advocated for multilateral institutions. For the WHO, this means preserving and strengthening functions that require universal participation, such as the International Health Regulations (IHR). The IHR requires states to develop detection and response capacities and notify the WHO of events with international scope.Balancing multilateralism and coalitions
For France and the European Union, the challenge is to articulate universal multilateralism, regionalism, and restricted coalitions. Intermediate powers face fewer levers to counter larger powers in a world where common rules are weakening. The European Union could contribute to preserving an international order based on rules and bring together a coalition of countries sharing this interest, despite political, budgetary, and military limitations.
