The rise of multiplexity and a future of world order/s

We utilise Amitav Acharya’s (2017) concept of multiplexity to identify, discuss, and analyse contemporary geopolitical shifts and trends, the impact of these on globalisation, and how they might determine the nature of global economic and security relations in the foreseeable future. These shifts and trends are the evolution of new types of regional constructs; challenges to the liberal international order; Sino-US competition and tensions; the resurgence of BRICS; the heterogeneity of the Global South; and the rise of African agency. A cross-cutting variable is that of climate change. Although discussed separately, it should be noted that all of these aspects are closely linked and together point to a future world of multiple international systems rather than a single order characterised by liberal hegemony or bipolarity or a somewhat simplified version of multipolarity. In a multiplex world, not all issues will be dominated or determined by the great powers; however, the global arena will remain a site of ideological contestation and competition.