U.S.-China relations are at the core of contemporary global politics, influencing debates on whether the world is shifting towards a bipolar or multipolar order. The U.S. has long been the dominant global power, but China’s economic rise, military expansion, and technological advancements have challenged American hegemony. Trade tensions, ideological differences, and security concerns have further strained relations, leading to strategic competition rather than open conflict.
Bipolarity suggests a world dominated by two major powers, as seen in the Cold War and U.S.-China competition mirrors this structure, with both nations competing in economic, ideological, military, and technological spheres. However, unlike the Cold War, economic interdependence complicates their competition, preventing complete decoupling. On the other hand, multipolarity suggests a world where multiple powers can alleviate dominance of U.S. and China in shaping global governance, trade, and security dynamics.
This panel seeks to explore how the international order is evolving, with elements of both bipolarity and multipolarity coexisting. While U.S.-China competition defines global geopolitics, other actors exert influence, making the system more fluid than a strict bipolar framework. The future balance of power will determine whether the world moves toward a stable equilibrium or heightened rivalry
