President Tharman delivers lecture 'Between Unipolar and Multipolar Worlds' in Sweden | Full speech

Navigating a world of radical uncertainty requires proactive global governance and the construction of new cooperative frameworks. The transition from a US-led unipolar order to a fragmented multipolar landscape demands "bridge builders"—nations and coalitions that facilitate collaboration on climate action, pandemic preparedness, and AI safety. A stable global order remains impossible without the active participation of the US and China; these peer competitors must manage their interdependence rather than pursue dangerous decoupling. Furthermore, domestic stability depends on revitalized social compacts that prioritize public goods and social insurance, ensuring that the insecurities of those marginalized by globalization are addressed. By shifting focus from distant targets to immediate, local impacts, nations can foster the resilience necessary to navigate the complex geopolitical and technological challenges of the current era.