Bandung Anniversary Sparks Debate on Global Order

The 70th anniversary of the Bandung Conference is being marked by reflections on the continued importance of its founding principles, such as sovereignty, self-determination, and a multipolar world order. Rising unilateralism, particularly under Donald Trump's economic nationalism and policies like sweeping tariffs, has destabilized the global economy and weakened multilateral institutions like the WTO. These trends are raising concerns over the future of the post-WWII rules-based system. Simultaneously, declining religious adherence in developed countries prompts worries about the erosion of shared moral frameworks needed for ethical governance. Public opinion remains deeply polarized, especially regarding responses to Trump and the role of protest culture. The global community is grappling with how to restore stability and ethical direction in the face of mounting political and economic upheaval.