The balance of power in international relations is rarely static, and the past two decades have seen a significant shift (0) AWAY from the Western-dominated order that prevailed throughout much of the twentieth century. Emerging economies in Asia and Latin America have grown in influence and now play a far 1 significant role in global governance than was the case two decades ago. At the same time, traditional alliances that were once considered unshakeable have come 2 increasing strain. The question of 3 these alliances can adapt to a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape has become a matter of considerable debate. Some analysts argue that the post-war institutions — the United Nations, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund — are no 4 fit for purpose and need to be fundamentally reformed. Others contend that, for 5 their imperfections, these institutions remain indispensable. Radical 6 some of the proposed reforms may seem, few observers would dispute that some degree of change is necessary. The challenge lies in securing agreement among nations 7 interests frequently diverge. Achieving consensus on even relatively minor reforms has proved enormously difficult, and 8 remains to be seen whether more ambitious restructuring is politically feasible.