Emerging Powers and the Challenge to US Hegemony: Strategies and Responses

The US has encountered difficulties a few times throughout the last hundred years. The Economic crisis of the early 20s made Americans question the country’s financial framework. World War II and the Cold War introduced dangers from worldwide authoritarian developments. The 1960s and ’70s were damaged by deaths, revolts, a terrible conflict, and a shamed president, yet this time it’s about the power dispersion, yes! a danger to US authority by China with a few partners.

The global geopolitical landscape has been undergoing significant changes in recent years, with several emerging powers challenging the traditional dominance of the United States. China, in particular, has emerged as a major player, with its growing economic power and increasing influence in various regions around the world. China’s challenge to the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency, its expanding influence in the Middle East, and its aggressive foreign policy posture have forced the US to reassess its approach to maintaining its position as the world’s leading superpower.

In addition to China, other countries such as Russia, India, Iran, and Saudi Arabia have also been challenging US hegemony in their respective regions. Russia, for instance, has been increasingly assertive in its foreign policy, challenging US influence in Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East. India, on the other hand, has been growing as a significant economic power, with its large population, tech-savvy workforce, and rapidly expanding economy, posing a significant challenge to US economic dominance. Iran, for its part, has been defying US pressure and sanctions, while also expanding its influence in the Middle East through its support for various proxy forces. Saudi’s inclination towards China and refusal to expand fuel reserves to the US pose a significant challenge to US economic dominance.

De-dollarization is a significant trend in the context of the changing global geopolitical landscape; these countries are seeking to reduce their reliance on the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency due to concerns over potential vulnerabilities and risks associated with the US-centric financial system. China, in particular, has been actively promoting the internationalization of its currency, the Yuan, through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and bilateral currency swap agreements, while other countries like Russia, India, Iran, and Saudi Arabia are also exploring alternative currencies or payment systems to reduce their exposure to the US dollar. This trend of de-dollarization has forced the US to reassess its approach to maintaining its position as the world’s leading superpower. Overall, de-dollarization is a significant development that reflects the changing dynamics of global economic and geopolitical power, and its implications are likely to continue to shape the future of international finance and trade. 

China’s growing role in the Middle East of late has alarmed Washington. Beijing mediated a landmark agreement between arch-foes Iran and Saudi Arabia that could help significantly ease Middle East tensions. Saudi Arabia also significantly strengthened its energy ties with China by announcing on Monday a $3.6 billion deal to buy 10% of China’s Rongsheng Petrochemical, which would see it supply 480,000 barrels per day of crude oil to the company.

Analysts say that as the US rivalry with China and Russia intensifies in an increasingly polarized world, Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern nations are choosing to diversify their global partnerships. But while states like Saudi Arabia may be getting closer to China

So how is the United States dealing with these emerging powers? The US has been pursuing several strategies to counter the challenges posed by these countries. First and foremost, the US has been relying on its military might to project power and maintain its presence in regions where it sees a threat to its interests. The US military continues to be the world’s most powerful, and it has been using this strength to deter any challenges to its position.

In addition to its military power, the US has also been leveraging its economic diplomacy to maintain its position and counter the challenges of China, India, and other countries. The US has been working to strengthen its trade relations with countries that share its values and strategic goals, such as Japan and South Korea. The US has also been actively involved in various multilateral trade agreements such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), which are designed to promote US economic interests and counter the rise of China.

Diplomacy has also been a critical tool in the US’s strategy to counter emerging powers. The US has been working to build alliances and partnerships with other countries to help it maintain its influence in the world. The US has been strengthening its relationships with its traditional allies such as the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, while also reaching out to other countries such as India and Vietnam to build new partnerships.

It’s important to note that the US approach to dealing with emerging powers is complex and multifaceted, involving a combination of military, economic, diplomatic, technological, and soft power strategies. The US recognizes the changing global geopolitical landscape and is adapting its approach to address the challenges posed by countries like China, Russia, India, Iran, and Saudi Arabia. The future of US hegemony will depend on its ability to navigate these challenges effectively and maintain its position as a global superpower in the face of emerging powers. Overall, the US continues to actively engage in efforts to safeguard its interests and maintain its global influence in this changing global landscape. It will require a nuanced and strategic approach to effectively manage the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging powers in the 21st century. The US will need to balance its military, economic, diplomatic, technological, and soft power capabilities to effectively address the complex geopolitical dynamics of our times. It will also be important for the US to work with like-minded allies and partners to build coalitions, promote common values, and address global challenges collectively. The future of US hegemony will depend on its ability to adapt, innovate, and effectively engage with the changing global order. Only time will tell how the US navigates these challenges and shapes its role in the emerging multipolar world. It will require careful and strategic planning, cooperation with allies, and a long-term vision to ensure the US remains a global leader in the face of evolving global dynamics. The US will need to continuously adapt and recalibrate its approach to deal with the complex and multifaceted challenges posed by emerging powers and ensure that it remains a resilient and competitive global power. Overall, the US faces significant challenges from emerging powers, but it also possesses considerable strengths and capabilities to navigate these challenges and maintain its position as a global superpower in the 21st century. With strategic foresight, adaptability, and cooperation with allies, the US can continue to play a leading role in shaping the future global order. As history has shown, the US has faced and overcome challenges in the past, and it has the potential to do so again in the future.

In conclusion, the United States is facing significant challenges from emerging powers such as China, Russia, India, and Iran, which is challenging its position as the world’s leading superpower. To counter these challenges, the US has been pursuing a range of strategies, including military power projection, economic diplomacy, and diplomacy. While it remains to be seen whether these strategies will be successful in the long run, the US’s response to these emerging powers will undoubtedly shape the global geopolitical landscape in the years to come.

Naveed Hussain Mangi
Naveed Hussain Mangi
Student of International Relations pursuing a bachelor's degree at the University of Karachi.