Scrutinizing Polarity: Redefining Power in the 21st Century: Scrutinizing Polarity: Redefining Power in the 21st Century

Bahrooz Jaafar; Soz Bashir Mahmood

doi:10.63841/iue32615

Authors

Bahrooz Jaafar Mediterranean Institute for Regional Studies, Sulaymaniyah, 46001, IRAQ Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8375-4718
Soz Bashir Mahmood Mediterranean Institute for Regional Studies, Sulaymaniyah, 46001, IRAQ Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63841/iue32615

Keywords:

Global Power Shift, China’s Rise, US Hegemony, Middle Powers, Polarization, Giant Tech

Abstract

This article examines the shifting dynamics of global polarity and the potential transformation of the international order in the 21st century. Grounded in the framework of power transition theory, neorealism, and technological determinism, this study investigates whether the current global system is undergoing a transition from unipolarity to multipolarity or a non-polar world. The United States has been the undisputed world leader for the past 3 decades since the Cold War. But then, opinion is divided on the U.S. lead; Some say the United States will remain a global hegemon for the foreseeable future, others say that we are headed for a new bipolar competition with China, and still others assert that we are living in the multipolar now, or at least it is tomorrow. To this effect, this academic research describes a new system that has never existed in the history of international relations “non-polar world”. In addition, the research focuses on defining the concepts of "polarization", "international system", " Middle-powers", and explaining the forms and characteristics of polarization. Why has the shift toward global power become inevitable? How do digital technology, economic relations, and global geopolitics work? By integrating historical analysis with theoretical insight, this study contributes to ongoing debates on global power redistribution and the future of international stability. The findings underscore the need to re-evaluation of traditional IR paradigms considering the accelerating trend toward systemic change.

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Author Biographies

Bahrooz Jaafar, Mediterranean Institute for Regional Studies, Sulaymaniyah, 46001, IRAQ

Bahrooz Jaafar, from Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, holds a Ph.D. in International Relations from Cyprus International University. He is the Founder and Head of the Mediterranean Institute for Regional Studies, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, with over 18 years of expertise in energy geopolitics and Middle Eastern affairs. He has published widely in international journals and think tanks. His recent works include books published by Springer and Emerald Publishing. Dr. Bahrooz is a recognized voice on energy security and regional dynamics, and holds a pedagogical certificate from Charmo University, Iraq, endorsed by the Kurdistan Regional Government.
Soz Bashir Mahmood, Mediterranean Institute for Regional Studies, Sulaymaniyah, 46001, IRAQ

Soz Bashir Mahmood, holds a Master's degree in Banking and Accounting from Near East University, Nicosia. She is currently a senior fellow at the Mediterranean Institute for Regional Studies, Sulaymaniyah, 46001, Iraq.

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Scrutinizing Polarity: Redefining Power in the 21st Century