“If the global West reverts to its old ways of direct or indirect dominance or outright arrogance, it will lose the battle. The doctrine combines a continuing commitment to universalism, plus a recognition of differences in creating an equal and symmetric dialogue with the global East and South. Its support for dominance and cultural arrogance cut completely across the values Stubb believes must animate the West’s last chance to have a constructive dialogue with the emerging global order. What might be the ingredients of an alternative progressive internationalism that could animate Europe’s centrists, liberals, lefts and greens in dialogue with the global East and South? Realism now dictates an honest and equal dialogue with those who are different and prioritise values like fraternity and social solidarity over liberal freedoms.

Source: The Irish Times February 28, 2026 17:13 UTC