Johannesburg, November 23: French President Emmanuel Macron, known for his bold and provocative statements on international platforms, has once again raised serious questions about the stability of the global order. The leader who shocked the world in 2019 by declaring NATO “brain-dead” has now suggested at the G-20 summit in South Africa that the forum is approaching the end of its cycle and faces existential risks.
US Absence Highlights Weakening Unity
The G-20’s most influential member, the United States, was absent from this summit a development Macron cited as a major indicator of the group’s weakening unity. In his opening address in Johannesburg, he noted that while this historic first G-20 summit on the African continent was significant, “it also signals that the G-20 may be moving toward its natural end.”
Lackluster “Family Photo” Reflects Diminished Energy
The summit’s official “family photo” also highlighted this waning energy. Typically featuring major world leaders as a symbol of global leadership, this year’s photo appeared remarkably underwhelming. Seven leaders were replaced by representatives, while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was also absent from the original lineup.
Geopolitical Consensus Increasingly Difficult
Macron stated that building global consensus on geopolitical crises has become increasingly difficult, and protecting humanitarian laws and national sovereignty particularly in the context of Ukraine is growing more challenging. He warned that “we are struggling to establish shared standards” and called for urgent collective efforts to revitalize the international order.
A Philosophical Assessment
Political analysts believe Macron’s comments reflect not only the weakness of global institutions but also a philosophical assessment of his own political journey. With his term ending in 2027, he remains one of the most experienced leaders in the G-7 and has consistently expressed concerns about the future of multilateral frameworks.
His earlier calls for a “true European army” to ensure Europe’s strategic autonomy have now become part of international debate, though critics argue that France often falls short of taking actions consistent with its claims.
Source: Hindustan Samachar (Feed News Agency)
Also Read | India, Australia and Canada Announce ACITI Partnership to Boost Tech Innovation at G20 Summit
