<p><strong>G20 Summit 2023: </strong>The 18th G20 Summit in New Delhi&nbsp;is proving to be a mega event, perhaps the largest in the history of G20. Attended by more than 30 heads of State/Government, it discussed issues that are not only relevant to the G20 countries but hold significance to the future of the entire planet, duly justifying the theme of this year’s G20 i.e. ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’. &nbsp;The ‘Delhi Declaration’ issued on the first day&nbsp;of the summit was an apt reflection of the priorities that India proposed, key among them being the focus on inclusion of the Global South in the G20, inclusive and human-centric development, climate preservation models through ‘just transition’ and a new model for financial inclusion for the developing world. The joint declaration was also a result of deft diplomacy from India, which had to navigate through several disagreements and conflicting views, prominent among them was the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the resultant stand-off between Russia and the West. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The G20, which consists of the world's major powers and important economies, has 19 countries plus the EU and now the African Union as members and represents&nbsp;more than 85% of global GDP, 75% of international trade and more than two-thirds of the world's population. Among the 19 countries are the P5 of the UN Security Council, others being Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, &nbsp;Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Türkiye with Spain as a permanent invitee. In addition, prominent forums like the World Bank, and IMF too are permanent invitees. The presidency is a rotational responsibility, on an annual basis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From an Indian standpoint, this was India’s first G20 presidency and coincided with the celebrations of its 75th year of independence. It was also the largest-ever gathering of world leaders hosted in India. It also came at a time when the world is looking for answers to serious global issues like Covid-19 pandemic which has adversely affected global supply chains, the Russia-Ukraine war which has split the world vertically between the ‘West and the Rest’ as well as the continued threat posed by China’s aggressive designs in East and South East Asia. In all of this, if there is one country that emerged above the gloom, it is India, which not only provided Covid-19 vaccines to its people but also to more than 100 countries in the world. Its resoluteness and exercise of its strategic autonomy in the face of extreme pressure posed by the West on Russia-Ukraine war, was acknowledged world over and later reluctantly accepted by the West too. India’s proactive steps in tackling climate disasters and promotion towards renewable energy have been taken note of&nbsp;by the world. In the midst of all this, India quietly climbed the ladder to become the fifth-largest economy and has been projected to continue its northward trajectory as the fastest-growing economy in the coming years. All this gave India prominence and the required fillip to set a proactive and futuristic agenda&nbsp;for its G20 presidency which is aptly reflected in the Delhi Declaration. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The Many Firsts and Unique Outcomes&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Perhaps the most significant outcome of India’s G20 has been the inclusion of the African Union as a G20 member. Right through its presidency, India has been vocal about becoming the ‘Voice of the Global South’. India hosted the first ever ‘Voice of Global South Summit’ on 12-13 January 2023. The Summit was held in a virtual format, with the participation of 125 countries of the Global South. India has constantly held the position that the concerns and needs of the Global South are essential to seek equitable solutions to global problems and thus inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member was an exclusive initiative and success of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India’s emphasis on LIFE (Lifestyle for Environment) and climate preservation and getting the G20 nations to agree on a ‘just transition’ to save the planet is yet another huge achievement of the Summit. It now involves a country-specific climate assessment and transition rather than the earlier ‘one size fits all’ approach. The joint declaration aptly stated that ‘Just energy transitions can improve jobs and livelihoods, and strengthen economic resilience. We affirm that no country should have to choose between fighting poverty and fighting for our planet’.</p>

<p>India has already demonstrated its commitment by surpassing its renewable energy target nine years ahead of the 2030 target set at the 2015 Paris Climate Summit, where India had pledged that 40% of its power capacity would be met by non-fossil fuels by 2030, a target that was met in December 2021 itself. In addition, India’s global initiatives like the International Solar Alliance set up in 2015 and which now has over 100 countries as members, and the now proposed Global Bio Fuels Alliance are huge steps towards preserving the climate. Over the year of its presidency, India also showcased its traditional ‘living in harmony with the nature’ as an effective measure to safeguard the climate. Another Indian initiative, setting up the Coalition for Disaster Resilience so that countries across the world, especially developing countries, learn from each other and build infrastructure that is resilient even during disasters, was widely acknowledged and applauded at the Summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Promotion of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has been another landmark achievement of India’s presidency. India through its DPI has been able to pull millions out of poverty by ensuring financial inclusion and ‘direct benefit transfer’ stopping leakages. The digital payment system has caught global attention with advanced economies like Japan, Singapore, France, Germany, UAE looking at ways to adopt it. Noting India’s expertise and rapid growth in DPI, the joint declaration welcomed India’s plan to build and maintain a Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (GDPIR), a virtual repository of DPI, voluntarily shared by G20 members and beyond. It also welcomed Indian Presidency’s proposal of the One Future Alliance (OFA), a voluntary initiative aimed at building capacity, and providing technical assistance and adequate funding support for implementing DPI in Low and Middle-Income economies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India also placed emphasis on addressing the global challenges posed by debt vulnerabilities, especially for nations in the Global South. G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors have acknowledged the problem and the need to establish strong mechanisms to help the affected nations. Towards this, the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable, a joint initiative of the IMF, World Bank and the G20 Presidency has been launched this year. India has already helped Sri Lanka in its debt restructuring while the G20 has now taken note of cases of Zambia, Ethiopia and Ghana for progressing their cases. &nbsp;</p>

<p>There were many more outcomes in the 37-page declaration, an outcome of over 10 months of labored and thought-provoking and futuristic discussions. By organising over 200 meetings across 60 cities, India has set yet another benchmark for the future of G20. India’s vision to make it ‘peoples presidency’ has not only helped showcase the diversity and vibrancy of all parts of India to the world but has also set the tone that G20 cannot be an elitist club, to be entertained in the capital city only. When seen in context with India’s push for inclusion of the African Union in the G20, it is a clear step towards democratization of the G20. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Shaping the New World Order&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>India’s G20 presidency came at a critical point when the existing global order was in crisis and the established norms were being challenged. Russia Russia-Ukraine war has split the world between the ‘West and the Rest’ while China’s aggressive designs and refusal to follow the ‘rules-based order’ are causing discord. The US is no longer the single ‘pole’ and its dollar dominance is being challenged. To add to the chaos is the global crisis caused in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic which has disrupted global supply chains, causing huge shortages in food and energy in the developing and under-developed nations. The relevance and potential of international financial institutions like the Bretton Woods Institutions i.e. the World Bank, and the IMF along with several multilateral development banks etc., to tackle modern-day issues is being questioned. PM Modi’s remarks that “a mid-20th century approach cannot serve the world in the 21st century. So, our international institutions need to recognise changing realities, expand their decision-making forums, relook at their priorities and ensure representation of voices that matter”, aptly puts the issues in correct perspective.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In all this muddle and uncertainty, the world is looking for a nation that enjoys goodwill across ideologies, is a trustworthy partner, is technologically and economically sound, has no aggressive designs or extra-territorial ambitions and respects the ‘rule-based order’. India ticks all these boxes and more, with its vibrant democracy and diversity being added pluses. So, when India talked of the need to include the Global South in important decision-making discourse, it was accepted. When India stood firm on exercising its strategic autonomy and serving its national interests during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, it was not only accepted but gave it the status of a global leader, ‘Vishwaguru’ status. India’s G20 presidency has thus set the foundation for a new and fast-evolving world order which would be more diverse and inclusive and a world order which will witness the emergence of multiple poles, unlike the fast-eroding existing world order.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The Finale&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Coming amidst huge uncertainties about the outcome of the G20 Summit, India practically pulled off a heist when PM Modi announced right in the morning session of the first day that a consensus has been reached on adopting the Delhi Declaration. It caught all the pundits by surprise, the majority of whom were doubtful of a consensus declaration and others who were hopeful of a declaration, albeit in a photo finish. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The main sticking point on the Ukraine war was deftly re-worded to state that G20 expresses deep concern about the immense human suffering and the adverse impact of wars and conflicts around the world. In line with the UN Charter, all states must refrain from the threat or use of force to seek territorial acquisition against the territorial integrity and sovereignty or political independence of any state. The use or threat of use of nuclear weapons is inadmissible. It added that G20 is not the platform to resolve geopolitical and security issues and ended the para by stating that there were different views and assessments of the situation. With Russia on board with it, China probably had no option but to relent not only on Ukraine but also on the theme of the G20 presidency, ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ which interestingly was the first para of the preamble of the declaration, perhaps a ‘tease or a dare’ to China!&nbsp;</p>

<p>As PM Modi himself stated, “India’s G20 Presidency has been the most ambitious in the history of G-20. With 112 outcomes and presidency documents, we have more than doubled the substantive work from previous presidencies." Modi emphasized on the need for inclusive human-centric development in which women get their due role and importance. India’s emphasis towards women-led development was applauded at the summit. India also proposed to launch the 'G20 Satellite Mission for Environment and Climate Observation' and also announced the launch of the Global Biofuel Alliance and urged G20 nations to join the initiative with a plea to take ethanol blending with petrol globally to 20 per cent, both perhaps cherries on the cake in the success of the Summit. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The G20 presidency of India has thus been spectacular and pathbreaking. The benchmarks it has set will be difficult to match in the future. It has once again re-affirmed India’s global leadership status.&nbsp;As Dr Jaishankar said at the press conference, “The G20 has contributed to making India world-ready and the world India-ready". India’s moment has truly arrived. PM Modi and his team have made it a habit of delivering against the greatest of odds and this G20 Summit was just the latest among, in a long list. Today, while the world heaves a sigh of relief at yet another day saved from the blushes, Bharat celebrates and the tricolor flies high.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


G20 Summit 2023: The 18th G20 Summit in New Delhi is proving to be a mega event, perhaps the largest in the history of G20. Attended by more than 30 heads of State/Government, it discussed issues that are not only relevant to the G20 countries but hold significance to the future of the entire planet, duly justifying the theme of this year’s G20 i.

G20 Summit 2023: The 18th G20 Summit in New Delhi is proving to be a mega event, perhaps the largest in the history of G20. Attended by more than 30 heads of State/Government, it discussed issues that are not only relevant to the G20 countries but hold significance to the future of the entire planet, duly justifying the theme of this year’s G20 i.e. ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’. The ‘Delhi Declaration’ issued on the first day of the summit was an apt reflection of the priorities that India proposed, key among them being the focus on inclusion of the Global South in the G20, inclusive and human-centric development, climate preservation models through ‘just transition’ and a new model for financial inclusion for the developing world. The joint declaration was also a result of deft diplomacy from India, which had to navigate through several disagreements and conflicting views, prominent among them was the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the resultant stand-off between Russia and the West. The G20, which consists of the world's major powers and important economies, has 19 countries plus the EU and now the African Union as members and represents more than 85% of global GDP, 75% of international trade and more than two-thirds of the world's population. Among the 19 countries are the P5 of the UN Security Council, others being Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Türkiye with Spain as a permanent invitee. In addition, prominent forums like the World Bank, and IMF too are permanent invitees. The presidency is a rotational responsibility, on an annual basis. From an Indian standpoint, this was India’s first G20 presidency and coincided with the celebrations of its 75th year of independence. It was also the largest-ever gathering of world leaders hosted in India. It also came at a time when the world is looking for answers to serious global issues like Covid-19 pandemic which has adversely affected global supply chains, the Russia-Ukraine war which has split the world vertically between the ‘West and the Rest’ as well as the continued threat posed by China’s aggressive designs in East and South East Asia. In all of this, if there is one country that emerged above the gloom, it is India, which not only provided Covid-19 vaccines to its people but also to more than 100 countries in the world. Its resoluteness and exercise of its strategic autonomy in the face of extreme pressure posed by the West on Russia-Ukraine war, was acknowledged world over and later reluctantly accepted by the West too. India’s proactive steps in tackling climate disasters and promotion towards renewable energy have been taken note of by the world. In the midst of all this, India quietly climbed the ladder to become the fifth-largest economy and has been projected to continue its northward trajectory as the fastest-growing economy in the coming years. All this gave India prominence and the required fillip to set a proactive and futuristic agenda for its G20 presidency which is aptly reflected in the Delhi Declaration. The Many Firsts and Unique Outcomes Perhaps the most significant outcome of India’s G20 has been the inclusion of the African Union as a G20 member. Right through its presidency, India has been vocal about becoming the ‘Voice of the Global South’. India hosted the first ever ‘Voice of Global South Summit’ on 12-13 January 2023. The Summit was held in a virtual format, with the participation of 125 countries of the Global South. India has constantly held the position that the concerns and needs of the Global South are essential to seek equitable solutions to global problems and thus inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member was an exclusive initiative and success of India. India’s emphasis on LIFE (Lifestyle for Environment) and climate preservation and getting the G20 nations to agree on a ‘just transition’ to save the planet is yet another huge achievement of the Summit. It now involves a country-specific climate assessment and transition rather than the earlier ‘one size fits all’ approach. The joint declaration aptly stated that ‘Just energy transitions can improve jobs and livelihoods, and strengthen economic resilience. We affirm that no country should have to choose between fighting poverty and fighting for our planet’. India has already demonstrated its commitment by surpassing its renewable energy target nine years ahead of the 2030 target set at the 2015 Paris Climate Summit, where India had pledged that 40% of its power capacity would be met by non-fossil fuels by 2030, a target that was met in December 2021 itself. In addition, India’s global initiatives like the International Solar Alliance set up in 2015 and which now has over 100 countries as members, and the now proposed Global Bio Fuels Alliance are huge steps towards preserving the climate. Over the year of its presidency, India also showcased its traditional ‘living in harmony with the nature’ as an effective measure to safeguard the climate. Another Indian initiative, setting up the Coalition for Disaster Resilience so that countries across the world, especially developing countries, learn from each other and build infrastructure that is resilient even during disasters, was widely acknowledged and applauded at the Summit. Promotion of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has been another landmark achievement of India’s presidency. India through its DPI has been able to pull millions out of poverty by ensuring financial inclusion and ‘direct benefit transfer’ stopping leakages. The digital payment system has caught global attention with advanced economies like Japan, Singapore, France, Germany, UAE looking at ways to adopt it. Noting India’s expertise and rapid growth in DPI, the joint declaration welcomed India’s plan to build and maintain a Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (GDPIR), a virtual repository of DPI, voluntarily shared by G20 members and beyond. It also welcomed Indian Presidency’s proposal of the One Future Alliance (OFA), a voluntary initiative aimed at building capacity, and providing technical assistance and adequate funding support for implementing DPI in Low and Middle-Income economies. India also placed emphasis on addressing the global challenges posed by debt vulnerabilities, especially for nations in the Global South. G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors have acknowledged the problem and the need to establish strong mechanisms to help the affected nations. Towards this, the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable, a joint initiative of the IMF, World Bank and the G20 Presidency has been launched this year. India has already helped Sri Lanka in its debt restructuring while the G20 has now taken note of cases of Zambia, Ethiopia and Ghana for progressing their cases. There were many more outcomes in the 37-page declaration, an outcome of over 10 months of labored and thought-provoking and futuristic discussions. By organising over 200 meetings across 60 cities, India has set yet another benchmark for the future of G20. India’s vision to make it ‘peoples presidency’ has not only helped showcase the diversity and vibrancy of all parts of India to the world but has also set the tone that G20 cannot be an elitist club, to be entertained in the capital city only. When seen in context with India’s push for inclusion of the African Union in the G20, it is a clear step towards democratization of the G20. Shaping the New World Order India’s G20 presidency came at a critical point when the existing global order was in crisis and the established norms were being challenged. Russia Russia-Ukraine war has split the world between the ‘West and the Rest’ while China’s aggressive designs and refusal to follow the ‘rules-based order’ are causing discord. The US is no longer the single ‘pole’ and its dollar dominance is being challenged. To add to the chaos is the global crisis caused in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic which has disrupted global supply chains, causing huge shortages in food and energy in the developing and under-developed nations. The relevance and potential of international financial institutions like the Bretton Woods Institutions i.e. the World Bank, and the IMF along with several multilateral development banks etc., to tackle modern-day issues is being questioned. PM Modi’s remarks that “a mid-20th century approach cannot serve the world in the 21st century. So, our international institutions need to recognise changing realities, expand their decision-making forums, relook at their priorities and ensure representation of voices that matter”, aptly puts the issues in correct perspective. In all this muddle and uncertainty, the world is looking for a nation that enjoys goodwill across ideologies, is a trustworthy partner, is technologically and economically sound, has no aggressive designs or extra-territorial ambitions and respects the ‘rule-based order’. India ticks all these boxes and more, with its vibrant democracy and diversity being added pluses. So, when India talked of the need to include the Global South in important decision-making discourse, it was accepted. When India stood firm on exercising its strategic autonomy and serving its national interests during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, it was not only accepted but gave it the status of a global leader, ‘Vishwaguru’ status. India’s G20 presidency has thus set the foundation for a new and fast-evolving world order which would be more diverse and inclusive and a world order which will witness the emergence of multiple poles, unlike the fast-eroding existing world order. The Finale Coming amidst huge uncertainties about the outcome of the G20 Summit, India practically pulled off a heist when PM Modi announced right in the morning session of the first day that a consensus has been reached on adopting the Delhi Declaration. It caught all the pundits by surprise, the majority of whom were doubtful of a consensus declaration and others who were hopeful of a declaration, albeit in a photo finish. The main sticking point on the Ukraine war was deftly re-worded to state that G20 expresses deep concern about the immense human suffering and the adverse impact of wars and conflicts around the world. In line with the UN Charter, all states must refrain from the threat or use of force to seek territorial acquisition against the territorial integrity and sovereignty or political independence of any state. The use or threat of use of nuclear weapons is inadmissible. It added that G20 is not the platform to resolve geopolitical and security issues and ended the para by stating that there were different views and assessments of the situation. With Russia on board with it, China probably had no option but to relent not only on Ukraine but also on the theme of the G20 presidency, ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ which interestingly was the first para of the preamble of the declaration, perhaps a ‘tease or a dare’ to China! As PM Modi himself stated, “India’s G20 Presidency has been the most ambitious in the history of G-20. With 112 outcomes and presidency documents, we have more than doubled the substantive work from previous presidencies." Modi emphasized on the need for inclusive human-centric development in which women get their due role and importance. India’s emphasis towards women-led development was applauded at the summit. India also proposed to launch the 'G20 Satellite Mission for Environment and Climate Observation' and also announced the launch of the Global Biofuel Alliance and urged G20 nations to join the initiative with a plea to take ethanol blending with petrol globally to 20 per cent, both perhaps cherries on the cake in the success of the Summit. The G20 presidency of India has thus been spectacular and pathbreaking. The benchmarks it has set will be difficult to match in the future. It has once again re-affirmed India’s global leadership status. As Dr Jaishankar said at the press conference, “The G20 has contributed to making India world-ready and the world India-ready". India’s moment has truly arrived. PM Modi and his team have made it a habit of delivering against the greatest of odds and this G20 Summit was just the latest among, in a long list. Today, while the world heaves a sigh of relief at yet another day saved from the blushes, Bharat celebrates and the tricolor flies high. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘Bharat’ aces G20, setting new benchmarks for a 21st century world order 

<p>For much of the 20th century, often dubbed 'The American Century,' it was an article of faith for most Americans that their country is the world’s greatest. Slowly but steadily, this has changed. It is now a minority view.</p>

<p>The latest in a string of polls over the past few years shows that just one in five Americans think their country stands above all others in the world. The share of those who think other countries are better than the US&nbsp;rose from 19 per cent in 2016 to 27 per cent now.</p>

<p>The cultural change reflected by these figures comes from a survey conducted by the Wall Street Journal and the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago. NORC is one of the largest independent social research organisations in the US.</p>

<p>It found not only that the notion of American Exceptionalism is fading from the national consciousness but also a decline in a range of other values. A somewhat wistful headline over the Wall Street Journal report on the survey said: “America Pulls Back from Values That Once Defined It.”</p>

<p>They include, according to the survey, patriotism, religion and tolerance. Thirty-eight per cent of those polled said patriotism was very important to them, down from 70 per cent when the question was first asked in 1998. On religion, the trend was down sharply, too, from 62 to 39.</p>

<p>Tolerance for others, deemed very important by Americans in previous surveys, dropped from 80 per cent to 58 per cent – not surprising in a country as deeply polarised as the United States.</p>

<p>Bill McInturff, a pollster who worked on previous surveys, described the differences as dramatic. “It paints a new and surprising portrait of a changing America,” he told the Journal. “Perhaps the toll of our political division, Covid, and the lowest economic confidence in decades is having a startling effect on our core values.”</p>

<p>Only one of the core values the survey covered showed an upward swing: money. It was deemed very important by 31 per cent in 1998 and 43 per cent now. In this, and similar surveys over the past few years, young Americans (aged between 18&nbsp;and 29) scored lowest on the importance they gave to the concepts that combine to the idea of exceptionalism.</p>

<p>They also make up the largest group of those who say that the United States is one of the world’s greatest countries, along with others.</p>

<p>That&nbsp;sober&nbsp;view brings to mind a response then-President Barack Obama gave at a news conference in Brussels in 2009 when asked whether he believed in American exceptionalism. “I believe in American exceptionalism, just as the Brits believe in British exceptionalism and the Greeks in Greek exceptionalism.”</p>

<p>The remark prompted rebukes from American conservatism, who interpreted it as undermining the standing of the United States in the world.</p>

<p>Oddly, the idea that the United States is exceptional is rooted in the writings of a Frenchman, political scientist Alexis de Tocqueville, after travelling in America in 1831. Through much of its history, US&nbsp;leaders described their country in terms that echoed his notion of a special nation.</p>

<p>Thomas Jefferson, one of the country’s Founding Fathers, frequently referred to it as “the Empire of Liberty.” President Ronald Reagan, borrowing from a 1630 sermon, rarely missed an opportunity to talk about his country as a “shining city on a hill.” Abraham Lincoln spoke of America as “the last best hope on earth.” More recently, the late Secretary of State Madeleine Albright referred to “the indispensable nation.”</p>

<p>While that may have raised eyebrows, then and now, by foreigners who saw the United States in less glowing colours, there is no dispute that it played a role so dominant after the end of the Second World War that the 20th century merited being called the American Century.</p>

<p>In a book of that title, the late British editor and writer Harold Evans noted that “the 20th century belongs to the United States because the triumph of its faith in its founding idea of political and economic freedom.”</p>

<p>With China now trying to equal or surpass the United States economically and perhaps eventually militarily, the 21st century is yet to earn a superpower-specific designation.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, there is a flip side to the “exceptionalism” label. Call it 'Only in America.'</p>

<p>Only in America are there more guns than people. Only in America are there more mass shootings than days in the month. Only in America is it easier for an 18-year-old citizen in most states to buy an assault rifle than a six-pack of beer. Only in America, driven by a toxic blend of guns and fear, can you get shot for knocking on the wrong door.</p>

<p>Only in America can a president who lost an election convince at least a third of the population that the vote was stolen, despite abundant evidence to the contrary. And only in America do you have legislators on the far right who describe people jailed for storming the Capitol to prevent the peaceful transfer of power, as political prisoners.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


For much of the 20th century, often dubbed 'The American Century,' it was an article of faith for most Americans that their country is the world’s greatest. Slowly but steadily, this has changed.

For much of the 20th century, often dubbed 'The American Century,' it was an article of faith for most Americans that their country is the world’s greatest. Slowly but steadily, this has changed. It is now a minority view. The latest in a string of polls over the past few years shows that just one in five Americans think their country stands above all others in the world. The share of those who think other countries are better than the US rose from 19 per cent in 2016 to 27 per cent now. The cultural change reflected by these figures comes from a survey conducted by the Wall Street Journal and the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago. NORC is one of the largest independent social research organisations in the US. It found not only that the notion of American Exceptionalism is fading from the national consciousness but also a decline in a range of other values. A somewhat wistful headline over the Wall Street Journal report on the survey said: “America Pulls Back from Values That Once Defined It.” They include, according to the survey, patriotism, religion and tolerance. Thirty-eight per cent of those polled said patriotism was very important to them, down from 70 per cent when the question was first asked in 1998. On religion, the trend was down sharply, too, from 62 to 39. Tolerance for others, deemed very important by Americans in previous surveys, dropped from 80 per cent to 58 per cent – not surprising in a country as deeply polarised as the United States. Bill McInturff, a pollster who worked on previous surveys, described the differences as dramatic. “It paints a new and surprising portrait of a changing America,” he told the Journal. “Perhaps the toll of our political division, Covid, and the lowest economic confidence in decades is having a startling effect on our core values.” Only one of the core values the survey covered showed an upward swing: money. It was deemed very important by 31 per cent in 1998 and 43 per cent now. In this, and similar surveys over the past few years, young Americans (aged between 18 and 29) scored lowest on the importance they gave to the concepts that combine to the idea of exceptionalism. They also make up the largest group of those who say that the United States is one of the world’s greatest countries, along with others. That sober view brings to mind a response then-President Barack Obama gave at a news conference in Brussels in 2009 when asked whether he believed in American exceptionalism. “I believe in American exceptionalism, just as the Brits believe in British exceptionalism and the Greeks in Greek exceptionalism.” The remark prompted rebukes from American conservatism, who interpreted it as undermining the standing of the United States in the world. Oddly, the idea that the United States is exceptional is rooted in the writings of a Frenchman, political scientist Alexis de Tocqueville, after travelling in America in 1831. Through much of its history, US leaders described their country in terms that echoed his notion of a special nation. Thomas Jefferson, one of the country’s Founding Fathers, frequently referred to it as “the Empire of Liberty.” President Ronald Reagan, borrowing from a 1630 sermon, rarely missed an opportunity to talk about his country as a “shining city on a hill.” Abraham Lincoln spoke of America as “the last best hope on earth.” More recently, the late Secretary of State Madeleine Albright referred to “the indispensable nation.” While that may have raised eyebrows, then and now, by foreigners who saw the United States in less glowing colours, there is no dispute that it played a role so dominant after the end of the Second World War that the 20th century merited being called the American Century. In a book of that title, the late British editor and writer Harold Evans noted that “the 20th century belongs to the United States because the triumph of its faith in its founding idea of political and economic freedom.” With China now trying to equal or surpass the United States economically and perhaps eventually militarily, the 21st century is yet to earn a superpower-specific designation. Meanwhile, there is a flip side to the “exceptionalism” label. Call it 'Only in America.' Only in America are there more guns than people. Only in America are there more mass shootings than days in the month. Only in America is it easier for an 18-year-old citizen in most states to buy an assault rifle than a six-pack of beer. Only in America, driven by a toxic blend of guns and fear, can you get shot for knocking on the wrong door. Only in America can a president who lost an election convince at least a third of the population that the vote was stolen, despite abundant evidence to the contrary. And only in America do you have legislators on the far right who describe people jailed for storming the Capitol to prevent the peaceful transfer of power, as political prisoners. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In America, a long-held belief in American exceptionalism is fading

Climate change is biggest challenge for 21st century, India jumps to rank 9 from 11. Watch this video to know more. #ClimateChange #ClimateIndex

Climate change is biggest challenge for 21st century, India jumps to rank 9 from 11

Technology has changed our lives but not all these changes are positive. Know Is technology in modern lives Boon or Bane?

Technology in modern lives Boon or Bane?

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that it was possible to make 21st century India&#39;s century.</p>

<p>Addressing the Indian community in Manila, Modi said &#39;&#39;if the 21st century is considered to be Asia&#39;s century, then it becomes our duty to make it India&#39;s century an I say it is possible&#39;&#39;.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I thank the Indian community in the Philippines for the warmth. Interacted with the diaspora during the community programme in Manila. Sharing my speech on the occasion. <a href="https://t.co/vdbSQlJKss">https://t.co/vdbSQlJKss</a> <a href="https://t.co/CftYOHCRTX">pic.twitter.com/CftYOHCRTX</a></p>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/930045376651968512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>&quot;Our efforts are aimed at transforming India and making sure everything in India is up to world standards,&#39;&#39; he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Emphasising on his Swachh Bharat Abhiyan initiative Modai asked Which citizen doesn&#39;t want cleanliness? We have started from where Mahatma Gandhi left and till now more than 2 lakh villages in India have become open defecation-free, Modi claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If 21st century is considered to be Asia&#39;s century, then it becomes our duty to make it India&#39;s century &amp; I say it is possible: PM Modi to Indian community in Manila <a href="https://t.co/eSvEwhmPcs">pic.twitter.com/eSvEwhmPcs</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/930033183231393792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>Prime Minister also thanked the Indian community in the Philippines for the warmth and interacted with the diaspora during the community programme in Manila.&nbsp;</p>


'Our efforts are aimed at transforming India and making sure everything in India is up to world standards,' Modi said while speaking to the Indian diaspora in Manila

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that it was possible to make 21st century India's century. Addressing the Indian community in Manila, Modi said ''if the 21st century is considered to be Asia's century, then it becomes our duty to make it India's century an I say it is possible''. I thank the Indian community in the Philippines for the warmth. Interacted with the diaspora during the community programme in Manila. Sharing my speech on the occasion. https://t.co/vdbSQlJKss pic.twitter.com/CftYOHCRTX — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 13, 2017 × "Our efforts are aimed at transforming India and making sure everything in India is up to world standards,'' he added. Emphasising on his Swachh Bharat Abhiyan initiative Modai asked Which citizen doesn't want cleanliness? We have started from where Mahatma Gandhi left and till now more than 2 lakh villages in India have become open defecation-free, Modi claimed. If 21st century is considered to be Asia's century, then it becomes our duty to make it India's century & I say it is possible: PM Modi to Indian community in Manila pic.twitter.com/eSvEwhmPcs — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2017 × Prime Minister also thanked the Indian community in the Philippines for the warmth and interacted with the diaspora during the community programme in Manila.

If 21st century belongs to Asia, let's make it India's: Modi at ASEAN

21st-century

21st Century, News on 21st Century, stories on 21st Century, articles on 21st Century, 21st Century stories at Wion, 21st Century news, 21st Century latest news