An analytical note by the Center for Strategic and International Analysis on China’s statements regarding the desired and new global order and its actions aimed at reshaping the world order
After World War II, a new global order emerged centered on the two superpowers of the time. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the United States became the unchallenged global leader, shaping international rules to serve Western interests.
Today, the rise of revisionist powers like China and Russia globally, and Iran regionally, has changed the dynamics. The U.S. faces growing challenges, including economic dependence on China and its inability to resolve the war in Ukraine. Meanwhile, China continues to strengthen and challenge American dominance. It has long shown, in both policy and action, its aim to reshape the existing order.
This article explores the New Global Order from China’s Perspective, examining China’s vision of a desirable global order and the steps it has taken to achieve it, highlighting why the focus should shift toward understanding the transformation of global power and the decline of American dominance.
Chinese Statements on a Desirable Global Order
Chinese officials emphasize moving away from U.S. unilateralism toward multilateralism, defending international law and the UN system. For China, changing the order means reforming rules and power balances within the existing system to align with its priorities—sovereignty, non-interference, and development—rather than overthrowing it.
Under Xi Jinping, China has repeatedly stressed opposing hegemony and promoting multilateralism. These statements illustrate China’s vision for the New Global Order from China’s Perspective, focused on reforming the current system and resisting U.S. dominance.
China’s Actions to Reshape the Global Order
China has introduced global initiatives to reform the current world order, including the Global Security Initiative, Global Development Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative, all emphasizing cooperation, sovereignty, and multilateralism. It has also built alternative institutions, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, to operate independently of U.S.-led structures. These efforts reflect China’s strategy to reshape the New Global Order from China’s Perspective across political, economic, and cultural spheres.
Lessons for Us
China shows that nations must challenge an existing order that blocks growth. Iran should similarly build elite awareness and national consensus to protect its interests and resist the U.S.-led global order.
This study is conducted at International and Strategic Analysis (ISA) Center by Danial BarootKob Zadeh in 2025.
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