The global balance of power is shifting, and many old assumptions no longer hold. This timely course explores the move from a largely Western-led order towards a more multipolar world shaped by rising powers, new alliances and changing strategic realities.

Drawing on recent debates around “Westlessness” and the growing influence of blocs such as BRICS, the course asks how we should understand this rebalancing and what it may mean for Australia. A thought-provoking class for anyone interested in geopolitics, global change and the uncertain shape of the future.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE OUTLINE

• Origin of the Western axis of power
• Changing demography between the 'east' and 'west'
• Hemispheres of influence - reading the shifting currents
• 'We are in the midst of a rupture' PM Mark Carney's Davos speech
• Recasting global leadership

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Students will:

• Develop a frame of reference for interpreting current global events.
• Understand the purpose and formation of the BRICS alliance - Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia.
• Consider the implications of Canadian PM Mark Carney's middle powers speech.
• Discuss the adaptations required as global powers shift from a single axis to multi axis world order.

COURSE RESOURCES

• Westlessness - the Great global rebalancing by Samir Puri, 2024, Hodder & Stoughton.
• https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/mark-carney-speech-davos-rules-based-order-9.7053350
• Global Governance Institute interview with Samir Puri (video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drTJ7gaHssI
• https://chinaglobalsouth.com/podcasts/westlessness-a-new-era-where-the-west-still-matters-just-not-as-much/
• https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/explaining-history/id583707171?i=1000661442816