In an interview with NHS Media, Professor Ahsan Butt, an Associate Professor at the School of Policy and Government at George Mason University, discussed various aspects of the changing global order and Pakistan’s role within it. The conversation covered a range of topics, from China’s rise to India’s position in the international order, and Pakistan’s diplomatic balancing act between major powers.
Key Points:
- China, have different ideas about how the world should work compared to what most others believe. This can cause disagreements on topics like human rights and borders.
- As China becomes more powerful, some countries form new alliances will to balance its influence this can lead to groups of countries working together to manage China’s impact, which can be both positive and negative.
- A country like India is getting more important in global affairs. It is seen as a counterbalance to China, but its own issues, like its way of governing, can also affect its global role.
- Countries sometimes treat human rights differently based on their relationships. They might care less about these rights if they need help from a powerful friend.
- Pakistan is trying to be friends with both powerful countries without taking sides. This can work if Pakistan can keep its own interests while not upsetting its two big friends.
Professor Butt began by highlighting the significance of the changing world order, especially in the context of China’s rise and its implications for global politics. He emphasized the ideational and normative differences between China and the prevailing liberal international order. China’s distinct views on human rights, self-determination, and sovereignty challenge the established norms.
Moving beyond norms, Professor Butt touched on the power dynamics at play due to China’s rise. He mentioned that China’s emergence has both reaffirmed and challenged existing alliance patterns. Notably, the United States has forged closer relationships with countries like India and Australia to counterbalance China’s influence. This has led to the formation of alliances like the Quad, which includes the US, Australia, Japan, and India.
Regarding India’s rise in South Asia, Professor Butt noted that India is viewed as an important partner by the US in countering China’s influence. The relationship between the US and India has been strengthened by their common concerns about China’s ascendancy. While India’s democratic values and economic potential make it a valuable ally, Professor Butt also acknowledged concerns about India’s internal democratic backsliding.
Regarding the role of human rights in international politics, Professor Butt discussed the varying levels of attention and leverage that human rights concerns receive based on the power dynamics between countries. He pointed out that the US and the West tend to treat human rights issues differently when dealing with geopolitical allies versus adversaries. This pragmatic approach reflects the broader interests of states rather than an unwavering commitment to human rights.
As the interview continued, the conversation shifted towards Pakistan’s place in the evolving global landscape. Professor Butt commented that Pakistan’s value in Washington has diminished over time, particularly in terms of economic and diplomatic influence. While Pakistan’s relationship with the US had elements of alignment during the Cold War and the War on Terror, the alliance has become strained due to various factors.
Regarding Pakistan’s relationship with China and the US, Professor Butt explained that Pakistan’s efforts to balance between the two powers are plausible. He noted that a rigid bloc system akin to the Cold War is not necessarily the current reality in global politics. Instead, hedging and maintaining a pragmatic stance might be more suitable for countries like Pakistan. Professor Butt highlighted that both China and the US would likely accept Pakistan’s hedging strategy, as it serves their interests without necessarily committing to one side.
In conclusion, Professor Ahsan Butt provided valuable insights into the shifting global order, the rise of China, India’s role, and Pakistan’s position in the international arena. The discussion underscored the complexities of international relations and the nuanced considerations that countries must navigate in a rapidly changing world.