Global cooperation declines after a decade of resilience

Global cooperation has been a cornerstone of stability and progress for many years, but a recent report by the World Economic Forum (WEF) indicates that this essential pillar is now showing signs of decline. The 2024 global cooperation barometer has revealed a sharp increase in violent conflicts and a reversal in collaboration in the health and wellness sectors. WEF President, Børge Brende, shed light on the concerning trends during an interview with CNBC Africa, ahead of the upcoming WEF forum next week. The report paints a grim picture of the current state of affairs, citing a substantial negative change in peace and security, particularly since 2020. The number of people displaced globally has skyrocketed from 40 million to 110 million, cyber attacks have quadrupled, and conflicts have become deadlier and more widespread. Brende emphasized the urgent need to prevent the escalation of these conflicts and strive for peace, even in a world marked by fragmentation and discord. While some areas like environment and climate have shown resilience in cooperation, there are clear challenges in crucial areas like peace and security. The deterioration in peace and security is underscored by ongoing conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and tensions in the Middle East, creating a sense of insecurity in many regions. In light of these challenges, the WEF report puts forward recommendations to world leaders, including the concept of 'coopetition'. This approach acknowledges that competition between major economies, particularly the US and China, is inevitable, especially in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and big data. However, it also highlights the importance of finding common ground for cooperation on transboundary issues such as climate change, cybersecurity, and global health. By fostering a balance between competition and collaboration, leaders can work towards stabilizing peace and security amidst rising tensions and conflicts. As the global landscape shifts and uncertainties loom, the need for a new world order that accommodates the interests of all nations becomes increasingly apparent. The recent G20 meeting in India, where the African Union was invited as a partner, signifies a changing dynamic in global partnerships and alliances. While challenges remain, including competition, fragmentation, and uncertainty, there is hope that established 'traffic rules' of cooperation and trade will prevail, ensuring continued prosperity for all nations involved. One area where cooperation seems to be more promising is climate action. Brende noted that countries are beginning to realize the high cost of inaction on climate change and the urgent need for meaningful mitigation efforts. While progress has been made, such as the agreements reached at COP28 in Dubai, there is still a significant gap between commitments and action. The pressing need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to meet the targets of the Paris Agreement is a top priority. Lessons learned from successful cooperation in the climate arena can serve as a blueprint for addressing challenges in other sectors, such as peace and security. In conclusion, the decline in global cooperation post a decade of resilience serves as a wake-up call for world leaders to recommit to collaboration and dialogue. Amidst growing conflicts and uncertainties, finding common ground and striking a balance between competition and cooperation is essential for creating a sustainable and peaceful future. The upcoming WEF forum presents a critical opportunity for leaders to address these pressing issues and steer global cooperation back on track.