ABSTRACT
This explores how the transitional international order, driven by shifts in great power influence, is shaping the evolving international politics of state recognition. The chapter considers whether the politics and practice of international recognition are facing an upheaval as a result of renewed great power friction. This is explored through three scenarios. First, the chapter considers patterns of practices among ‘rising’ and ‘status quo’ powers in terms of international recognition. Second, the chapter explores if and how the rivalries and tensions associated with the transitional international order play a role in multilateral debates and decisions about recognition. Finally, the chapter explores if normative contestation associated with the transitional international order – with opposing liberal and conservative world views – is relevant to evolving international recognition politics and norms.
