Summary of the video Russia, China, and the Revisionist Assault on the World Order A Book Talk with Gerlinde Groitl

In this video transcript, Gerlinde Groitl, an associate professor of international politics and transatlantic relations, discusses her new book “Russia, China, and the Revisionist Assault on the Western Liberal International Order.” She begins by discussing Germany’s changing foreign and security policy, particularly in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. While Germany has shown more support for Ukraine since the invasion, there is still a belief in the German political mindset that engagement and trade can pacify countries and lead to a more peaceful world. However, Groitl argues that this belief is flawed and that change does not come through trade alone.

The discussion then moves to the relationship between Russia and China. Groitl explains that both countries have their own revisionist grievances and opportunities, and they have joined forces to challenge the Western liberal international order. While they are not in an alliance, they are in alignment in their goal of reducing US dominance and changing the international order to be more favorable to their own interests. Groitl also notes that China presents itself as neutral in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, but it is firmly on Russia’s side and supports Russia in various ways.

The conversation then turns to the emerging international order. Groitl argues that it is more likely to be a bipolar world with the US and China as the two major powers, rather than a multipolar world. She explains that there are no other countries that can emerge as power centers on par with the US and China, and the idea of a multipolar system is not realistic. Groitl also emphasizes the importance of ideology in international relations, noting that Russia’s fear of democracy and liberal values is a major factor in its actions.

Finally, Groitl discusses her strategy of neocontainment as a response to the revisionist assault on the Western liberal international order. She argues that previous policies of engagement and accommodation have not been effective, and setting boundaries and limits to what Russia and China can do is necessary. However, she acknowledges that enforcing these boundaries can be challenging, particularly due to domestic politics and the reluctance of some countries to pick sides.

Overall, Groitl’s book provides a detailed analysis of the challenges posed by Russia and China to the Western liberal international order and offers a strategy for addressing these challenges. The book highlights the importance of understanding the motivations and goals of these countries and the need for a coordinated response from the West.

Russia, China, and the Revisionist Assault on the World Order A Book Talk with Gerlinde Groitl