In a world struggling with new approaches to globalisation and conflict resolution, many of us might wonder about the role of international organisations and multilateral bodies.

But in the face of the world’s evolving needs and challenges - do we still need these international institutions if they’re unable to come up with cohesive solutions to the complex issues that we face? 

On this episode of Morning Shot, Dr Lincoln Mitchell, Lecturer of the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University shares his insights.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

Produced and edited by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)

Highlights:

(0:00) Intro

(1:19) Let's kick things off by asking you for your opinion about what role these institutions play in addressing current global challenges and how the functions have evolved over time. 

(2:59) Some critics argue that the decision making processes within these international organizations are dominated by a few powerful nations, you mentioned one of them is the United States. Is that true, in your opinion? And how can these institutions adapt to ensure a more equitable representation considering the changing dynamics of global power?

(4:54) Another factor to consider here is that we live in an era of rising nationalist and populist Governments. We've seen the rise of many of them across the world. Some argue that countries are as a result becoming more reluctant to cooperate through international institutions. What can these organizations do to demonstrate that they're still value? 

(6:33) You've talked about the rise of China and India and how that might reshape or remake international relations. Who else do you think is at the top rung of that table and how is that going to change the international world order in your opinion?

(8:03) Let's get back to the origin of what we've been talking about, why we're here. Do we actually need this top table at all? Do we need multilateral institutions that, as some pundits might argue, are only really acting as vehicles for countries to advance their own self interest?