Alcaro argues that the incipient multipolarity is not incompatible with the Western-supported liberal order, as even the most restive among the non-Western powers, such as China and Russia, have a stake in its endurance. He maintains that the transatlantic ability to shape security governance will diminish if relations among great powers become conflictual, largely because of Europe’s modest hard power and lack of strategic cohesion. On the contrary, if centripetal dynamics prevail, the Europeans can make use not only of their individual assets to address functional threats, such as terrorism and regional crises, but also exploit the soft power potential of the European Union, whereby United States power gains greater outreach and impact.

Multipolarity is not incompatible with the Western-supported liberal order, but if relations among great powers become conflictual, Europe's ability to shape security governance will diminish.

The Paradoxes of the Liberal Order: Transatlantic Relations and Security Governance

Key Takeaway: Multipolarity is not incompatible with the Western-supported liberal order, but if relations among great powers become conflictual, Europe's ability to shape security governance will diminish.