By In an exclusive interview with Dr. Mosi Dorbayani, a Canadian executive advisor, economist, jurist, and award-winning author, the NY Weekly delves into his views on the shifting global dynamics and how they intersect with international law, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. His new book, Law and Cultural Diplomacy: The Cohabitation of International Law and International Cultural Interactions, highlights the importance of culture in global governance and legal compliance.
The world is experiencing a shift from a unipolar to a multipolar order, with increasing geopolitical competition among rising powers such as Russia, China, Brazil, and India. Dr. Dorbayani points out that this change is often misperceived, with different countries envisioning a world where their influence is greater than it currently is. He notes that while discussions about multipolarity are common, they often reflect an ideal future state rather than present realities. This discrepancy can lead to conflicts as nations strive for greater power and representation on the world stage, particularly within global institutions like the UN Security Council and the World Bank.
Dr. Dorbayani highlights how the new multipolar world order will reshape global economic markets, creating opportunities for new players and shifting power dynamics. He emphasizes that the emergence of new alliances and regional leaders demands more representation and change in institutions that have traditionally been dominated by a select few countries. Brexit, nationalism, and the rise of China-Russia and South American coalitions are just some of the factors contributing to these shifts.
Amidst this global tension, Dr. Dorbayani stresses the importance of cultural diplomacy as a tool for reducing conflicts. In a multipolar world, culture can serve as a form of "soft power" to bridge divides, promote understanding, and foster peaceful relations between nations. By strengthening international cultural relations and encouraging dialogue, cultural diplomacy can support sustainable development and social cohesion, ultimately easing geopolitical tensions.
His research also delves into the relationship between culture and law. He points out that while legal rules are enforced through formal governmental institutions, cultural rules are governed by societal pressures. While the two systems are distinct, culture plays a crucial role in encouraging adherence to legal norms. In many cases, cultural formations—such as family values, social dependencies, and religious ideologies—can influence whether people comply with laws, creating a dynamic where informal societal rules may be just as powerful as formal legal systems. This interaction between culture and law is vital to understanding global governance in the modern world.
Dr. Dorbayani concludes that the new world order calls for a shift in how disputes are handled, emphasizing the need for informal negotiations and political compromises. In this environment, diplomacy, particularly cultural diplomacy, becomes an essential tool for managing conflicts and ensuring that global cooperation remains possible despite shifting power structures.
His insights offer a profound understanding of how cultural diplomacy, combined with international law, can shape the future of global relations and governance in an increasingly complex world.