Ian Bremmer: Who Is Actually Running the World?

The global order is undergoing a radical transformation as the era of American hegemony wanes, leading to a "G-Zero" world defined by a lack of unified leadership. Political scientist Ian Bremmer argues that nations are no longer static, and the United States faces internal instability fueled by polarized information ecosystems and a widespread belief that the system is broken. Technology companies are increasingly acting as sovereign geopolitical entities, wielding influence that rivals or exceeds that of traditional governments, particularly as AI begins to mediate human experience. Strategic thinking requires an objective assessment of this shifting terrain—acknowledging that the arc of history does not inherently bend toward progress—and recognizing that political actors often prioritize self-preservation over national interest. Navigating this future demands a departure from tribal narratives in favor of a clear-eyed understanding of how global power is diffusing.