africa.chinadaily.com.cn
US 'America First' Policy Undermines Global Order
The US's "America First" policy sabotages the UN-based global order by prioritizing bilateral deals over multilateral cooperation, disregarding the successes of UN agencies in the Global South, and viewing China's rise and Global South development as threats to US hegemony.
- What are the key factors contributing to the US's perceived threat from the rise of China and the Global South, and how does this influence US foreign policy?
- The rise of China and the Global South challenges the US-led global order, prompting the US to abandon multilateral frameworks. China's economic growth and engagement with the Global South, exemplified by initiatives like the Global Development Initiative, present an alternative model that the US views as a threat to its dominance.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of a fragmented global order, and what are the prospects for alternative multilateral frameworks that could emerge?
- The future hinges on whether the Global South, with China's support, can establish sustainable alternative trade and dispute settlement mechanisms, decoupling from US-led institutions. This shift may lead to a reformed global order or a multipolar world with competing governance structures.
- How does the US's "America First" policy impact the effectiveness and legitimacy of the existing global rules-based order, and what are its immediate consequences?
- The US's "America First" policy undermines the UN-established global order, prioritizing bilateral deals over multilateral cooperation. This approach disregards the developmental successes of UN agencies, particularly in the Global South, which have significantly improved health and well-being.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative strongly frames the US's "America First" policy as destructive and solely focused on maintaining US hegemony. This is evident from the outset with the characterization of the policy as "plutocratic anarchy." The article uses loaded language to consistently portray the US actions in a negative light while depicting China and the Global South in a more positive and sympathetic way. Headlines and subheadings, if present, would likely reinforce this biased presentation.
Language Bias
The article uses loaded and emotive language to portray the US and its policies negatively. Terms like "sabotage," "plutocratic anarchy," "servile countries," and "cripple" are used to describe US actions, conveying strong negative connotations. The author uses words like "astonishing growth" for China, and describes actions of Global South countries and China as positive, while those of the US are presented negatively. Neutral alternatives could include more descriptive, less emotionally charged terms, such as "revise," "alter," or "adjust" instead of "cripple," and more objective descriptions of economic growth.
Bias by Omission
The analysis omits discussion of potential benefits or positive aspects of the "America First" agenda or alternative perspectives on the effectiveness of UN agencies. It focuses heavily on criticisms and negative consequences, potentially creating an unbalanced view. The piece also omits detailed analysis of specific US trade policies and their actual impact on the global economy, beyond general assertions of negative consequences. This omission limits a nuanced understanding of the complexities of the situation.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy between US unilateralism and cooperation with China and the Global South, implying these are mutually exclusive options. It overlooks the potential for multilateral cooperation that includes the US, China, and other nations. The framing of the issue as a zero-sum game where one side must dominate neglects opportunities for collaborative solutions.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the UN's role in poverty reduction, particularly in formerly colonized nations. UN agencies are credited with significant achievements in improving living conditions and eliminating diseases, contributing to the rise of the Global South and challenging the previously intractable poverty prevalent during colonial times. The initiatives of China, working with the UN and Global South countries, further aim to alleviate poverty and promote economic prosperity.