Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that the world's rules-based order is ruptured, during a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland on January 22, 2026. Carney's remarks, though not directly mentioning former United States President Donald Trump, were widely interpreted as a critique of recent geopolitical shifts and the use of force by major world powers.
The Prime Minister's assessment sparked considerable debate among political analysts and economists. Lionel Barber, former editor of The Financial Times, noted the significance of Carney's statement, emphasizing the potential long-term consequences for international cooperation. "Carney's comments reflect a growing concern that the established norms of global governance are being undermined," Barber said.
Professor Bessma Momani, a political science professor at the University of Waterloo, offered a nuanced perspective. She acknowledged the challenges to the existing order, citing instances of unilateral action and disregard for international law. "The system isn't perfect, and it has always been subject to power dynamics, but the erosion of commitment to multilateralism is a worrying trend," Momani stated.
Donnacha O Beachain, a professor of politics at Dublin City University, added that the rise of nationalism and protectionism in various countries has contributed to the weakening of international institutions. "We're seeing a resurgence of zero-sum thinking, where cooperation is viewed as a sign of weakness rather than a source of mutual benefit," O Beachain explained.
The concept of a "rules-based order" refers to a system of international relations governed by established laws, treaties, and institutions. This order, largely shaped after World War II, aims to promote peace, stability, and prosperity through cooperation and adherence to agreed-upon norms. Critics argue that the system has disproportionately benefited certain countries and has failed to adequately address issues such as inequality and climate change. Supporters maintain that it has prevented large-scale conflicts and facilitated economic growth.
The implications of a ruptured rules-based order are far-reaching, potentially affecting trade, security, and environmental agreements. The future of international cooperation remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions focused on how to adapt the existing system to address new challenges and accommodate shifting power dynamics. The World Economic Forum served as a platform for further dialogue on these critical issues.
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