Poland's Deputy Prime Minister Radosław Sikorski has penned a compelling defense of the rules-based international order. He acknowledges its flaws but insists it remains crucial for global stability and prosperity. Sikorski's opinion piece, published on January 17, 2026, at 07:08 AM IST, first appeared in The Indian Express.
The Gradual Erosion of a Post-War System
There is no denying that we are witnessing a slow erosion of the international system established after World War II. This system was built on international law, multilateral institutions, and shared norms like respect for sovereignty. It aimed to replace brute force with predictability and cooperation.
While its record has been patchy, this order delivered decades of stability and growth across large parts of the world. For Poland, it proved indispensable after communism collapsed. Market reforms and integration into Western structures created foundations for sustained development and credible national security.
Poland's Remarkable Transformation
After 1989, the predictability and legal clarity of the post-war system allowed Poland to modernize at remarkable speed. The country embarked on a peaceful transformation from a centrally planned system to a democratic, market-based economy.
Since 1990, Poland's GDP per capita has increased more than eightfold. Poverty has fallen dramatically. A strong middle class has emerged. Modern infrastructure now draws envy from others. Polish firms have climbed global value chains. Last year, Poland entered the ranks of the world's 20 largest economies.
Growing Global Criticism and Valid Concerns
Today, however, this global arrangement faces increasing questioning. Many countries in the Global South challenge it, often for good reasons. Critics point to Western dominance, imposition of lopsided standards, and inadequate recognition of emerging powers' interests.
They highlight economic egoism and selective application of international law through double standards. Sikorski emphasizes these concerns deserve acknowledgment and addressing, not dismissal.
Divergent Views on International Law
Divergent interpretations of international law appear starkly in reactions to Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Some countries, including Poland, see this as a blatant violation of basic international and humanitarian norms.
Others view it as merely one local conflict among many. For them, this does not justify reassessing relations with Russia, which they continue to regard as an important political and economic partner.
Historical experiences, political cultures, and geography shape these national perspectives. Sikorski notes these differences may never reconcile fully.
The Indispensable Need for Rules
Yet some rules remain indispensable for international relations to function. Without them, long-term investment becomes risky. Trade grows unreliable. Cooperation turns fragile. Chaos prevails, benefiting a few while harming many.
Investment Preferences in a Volatile World
In an increasingly volatile world, investment preferences diverge sharply. Some seek high-risk, high-return opportunities. This drives stratospheric valuations for AI companies and proliferation of new cryptocurrencies luring millions.
Others prefer secure, stable investments. They push gold and silver prices to record highs. For these less adventurous investors, predictability has become an increasingly valuable asset.
Europe as a Beacon of Stability
The good news is predictability can still be found in Europe. The European Union remains one of few major global actors committed to fair trade, competitive markets, and mutually beneficial investment.
Crucially, it continues upholding international rules agreed upon some 80 years ago, after humanity's bloodiest conflict. Poland serves as a textbook example of how beneficial a stable, predictable environment can be.
Poland's Historical Lessons
Poland's history was hardly a walk in the park. The nation experienced conflicts, insurrections, and wars. It never avoided taking up arms when necessary. Yet the past 35 years taught a vital lesson.
Peace, predictability, and political order can work miracles when given a chance. Sikorski invites readers to visit Russia, then come to Poland. He poses two simple questions.
Where would you prefer your children to grow up? Where would you trust your money to work? The boring rules-based order still makes a profound difference.
The writer is Poland's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister. His insights highlight why predictable systems matter for nations seeking growth amid global uncertainties.
