Rising states, rising institutions

The global order is shifting in an unprecedented fashion. No major war has intervened to reshape the balance of power; nor has the world seen events as dramatic as collapse of communism and end of bipolarity in 1989. Change is afoot. While the United States remains world's leading power, thanks to its combination of military and economic strength, technological prowess, and cultural appeal, Washington cannot simply impose its will on others. The European Union remains an independent force in global politics, and a host of rising states including China, India, and Brazil clamor to make their voices heard. This book examines forces reshaping world politics and analyzes institutions that are rising to meet the demand for new forms of global governance. Contributors analyze different models of international cooperation, the states that have most actively challenged the existing order, and leading and emergent international institutions such as the G-20, the nascent regime for sovereign wealth funds, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and forums organized to foster cooperation in the war on terror--Publisher's description.