The Rising Influence of Middle Powers in a Fragmented World - A Geneva Security Debate

Описание: The Rising Influence of Middle Powers in a Fragmented World - A Geneva Security Debate
12 February 2026

Geopolitical rivalry among the United States, China, and Russia is fragmenting the international system and placing new pressures on states caught in between. For middle powers, today’s environment presents both risk and opportunity: how they choose to align, hedge, or engage can either deepen polarization or help stabilise contested regions and institutions.

This debate explores why middle powers matter more than ever—and how their choices are shaping global politics. The discussion will examine how middle powers turn strategic autonomy into real-world influence. Participants will explore practical diplomatic tools such as bridge-building between rival blocs, coalition-building across regions, mediation in conflicts, and strengthening economic connectivity.

Drawing on concrete examples, the event will unpack how middle powers convene actors, create trusted spaces for dialogue, and play a pivotal role in sustaining cooperation and multilateralism in an increasingly divided world.

Speakers

Mr Steve Killelea, Founder and Executive Chairman, Institute for Economics and Peace
Ambassador Thomas Greminger, Executive Director, Geneva Centre for Security Policy
Mr. Daniel Loutfi, First Secretary, Legal Affairs, Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations and the Conference on Disarmament, Geneva

Moderator

Dr Christina Schori Liang, Head of Counterterrorism and PVE, Geneva Centre for Security Policy.

Related Publications
The Great Fragmentation: The Rise of Middle Powers in a Fractured International Order, Institute for Economics and Peace, January 2026
The Agency of Middle Powers in a Fragmented and Polarised World, Geneva Centre for Security Policy, January 2026

#gcsp #debate #international