Opinion, 03 May 2026
Alexander Stubb’s book, "The triangle of power," published in January 2026, posits a future global power structure divided among three entities. Stubb suggests power will be split between "الغرب بقيادة الولايات المتحدة" (the West led by the United States) and "الشرق بقيادة الصين" (the East led by China). He also identifies "الجنوب العالمي الذي مازال لحد اليوم بلا قيادة واضحة" (the Global South, which still lacks clear leadership today). Stubb states, "كيفية تعامل الجنوب العالمي مع هذا الطرف أو ذاك هو الذي سيُحدٍّد مستقبل النظام العالمي، وعليه فمن السابق لأوانه القول بأن مستقبل هذا النظام قد حُسِم وانتهى الأمر، وأن مصير دولنا وشعوبنا هو التبعية مرة أخرى لقوى خارجية، إن كانت قوى عظمى أو شركات تكنولوجيا عملاقة أو مجموعات حضارية." This perspective challenges traditional notions of state-centric power dynamics, introducing a key third actor whose decisions will heavily influence the global order.
The G.0 Era Theory
Political scientist Ian Bremmer theorizes a "G.0 era" where global control shifts from nations to giant companies operating through digital systems and artificial intelligence. This radical reordering of global power means that it is not nation-states, but rather powerful corporate entities, that will increasingly dictate the terms of global engagement. Bremmer states that while attention often focuses on a multipolar world led by established nation-states such as the United States, China, Russia, and Europe, other supranational forces are emerging to take the initiative. He notes these forces' increasing capabilities in control, analysis, and influence across all sectors through artificial intelligence. This development allows them to direct economic, financial, media, and military sectors globally, significantly contributing to the formation of a digital world order. Bremmer concludes that it is no longer possible to understand or operate within this new system without comprehending its intricate mechanisms and the profound impact of technological integration.
A Multipolar Power Triangle
Political scientist إيان برمر (Ian Bremmer) posits that the "G.0 era" would involve technology companies assuming roles traditionally held by intergovernmental forums such as the G7, G8, G20, or BRICS in global governance. This profound shift, according to Bremmer, indicates a transfer of influence from nation-state groupings, which have historically shaped international policy and economic frameworks, to powerful corporate entities. These technology companies, with their vast reach and control over digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence, are increasingly becoming the de facto architects of global norms and regulations. Their influence extends beyond mere economic power, touching upon societal structures and geopolitical dynamics in unprecedented ways. This transformation redefines the very essence of global leadership and governance, moving it from sovereign states to private sector behemoths.
Global South's Key Role
Alexander Stubb argues that the future of the global system hinges on how the Global South interacts with established powers. In his January 2026 book, "The triangle of power," Stubb identifies three primary entities in the emerging global power structure: the West led by the United States, the East led by China, and "the Global South, which still lacks clear leadership today." He asserts that "how the Global South deals with this party or that is what will determine the future of the global system." Stubb adds that it is "too early to say that the future of this system has been settled and concluded, and that the fate of our countries and peoples is once again dependency on external powers, whether they are great powers or giant technology companies or cultural groups." This perspective, presented in the "Opinion" section, suggests the Global South holds significant agency in shaping the future world order, rather than merely being a passive recipient of global power shifts. The choices made by this diverse collective of nations will be instrumental in forging the contours of the coming international landscape.
