Rising Internal Conflicts in the West

The recent popular revolts in Nepal and other parts of the Subcontinent have overshadowed the emerging conflicts within the Western world. Historically, civil wars were considered a predicament of the Global South due to incomplete nation-building and other societal divisions. However, the West, too, has experienced significant internal strife, such as the English Civil War, the American Civil War, and the two World Wars. Since 1945, economic prosperity, democratic institutions, inclusive political representation, and welfare states have maintained relative peace in the West. Yet, there is a growing concern that this era might be coming to an end.

Current Dynamics

• Recent years have seen an increase in discussions about potential civil wars within the US, UK, and Europe, driven by: 
  • Polarization
  • Anti-immigrant sentiment
  • Values clash between liberal elites and populist movements
• Significant events: 
  • The murder of Charlie Kirk, an American conservative activist, seen as an act of war by the radical Left.
  • The "Patriot" rally in London, led by nationalist Tommy Robinson, highlighting anti-immigrant resentment.
• Transatlantic convergence between the MAGA movement in America and British nationalism.
• Rise of anti-immigrant and populist parties in Europe, such as Germany’s AfD and France’s National Rally.

Key Issues

• Ideological Clashes: Conflicts in the West revolve around values, immigration, and foreign policy.
• Differences between liberals and populists include: 
  • Values: Liberals support individual rights and multiculturalism, while populists focus on nationalism and cultural traditions.
  • Immigration: Liberals advocate for open borders for economic reasons, whereas populists see immigration as a threat to social cohesion and public services.
  • Foreign Policy: Liberals back globalism and international cooperation, while populists reject foreign alliances, emphasizing national sovereignty.

Impact on India

• India must pay attention to these Western dynamics due to: 
  • The potential impact on Indian diasporas, especially in the Anglo-Saxon world.
  • Challenges arising from anti-globalization policies and changing immigration stances.
• India's engagement with Western countries must consider internal divisions within the West.
• Indian think tanks and academia should focus more on studying Western political landscapes.

The internal conflicts within the West pose questions about the future of liberal democracy and the stability of these societies. India, with its strategic interests tied to the West, must adapt to these changes to ensure its continued engagement and influence in global affairs.