Dynamics of Global Conflict Post COVID-19 Pandemic

The dynamics of global conflict after the COVID-19 pandemic have shown significant changes in relations between countries and world power dynamics. This pandemic has not only affected public health, but also exacerbated existing tensions and created new gaps in international diplomacy. One important aspect is the depressed global economic system. Many countries are experiencing recession, resulting in increased protectionism. These stricter economic policies create tension between countries, especially between large countries such as the United States and China. Both countries seek to strengthen their positions by implementing policies that protect domestic industries, which often conflict with international trade norms. Apart from that, the pandemic has also exacerbated social inequality. Developing countries, which have less adequate health infrastructure, are more vulnerable to economic impacts. This is creating tensions between rich countries that are getting quicker access to vaccines and countries that are struggling to get supplies. This dissatisfaction can trigger political instability in various parts of the world. Geopolitical tensions are not only limited to economic aspects. The emergence of environmental issues, such as climate change, has also become a new focus in global conflicts. Countries are starting to adopt environmentally friendly policies, but differences in commitment and approach can lead to friction. International agreements on climate change efforts often reach a dead end due to differences in national interests. In a security context, the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a renewed focus on the defense sector. Countries are vulnerable to new threats, such as cyber attacks and biologically based terrorism. This encourages countries to increase defense spending and undertake military modernization, which in turn may lead to a new arms race. Shifts in alliances have also become a post-pandemic feature. Countries such as India and Australia are strengthening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region to respond to China’s increasing influence. A new cold war appears to be emerging, with increasingly assertive power groupings. On the other hand, the pandemic is encouraging innovation in diplomacy. Countries are starting to use technology, such as video conferencing, to communicate and negotiate. This changes the traditional way of conducting diplomacy, allowing for more multilateral engagement and dialogue. In addition, attention to global health has become more urgent. The WHO and other health organizations are being called to a greater role in coordinating the global response to the health crisis. This raises questions about the independence of health systems in various countries and the need for more solid international cooperation. News about vaccines also opens a new discourse in vaccine diplomacy. Several countries are carrying out vaccine diplomacy to increase their influence on the international stage, by providing access to vaccines to countries in need as a form of soft power. Changes in work patterns and global mobility due to the pandemic, such as remote working, also have an impact on international relations. Limited mobility affects tourism and international trade, creating new challenges that must be faced together. Overall, the dynamics of global conflict after the COVID-19 pandemic show layered complexities that require countries to adapt. While enormous challenges lie ahead, opportunities to create stronger and more sustainable international cooperation may also emerge from this situation.