Since the end of World War II, the United States has positioned itself as a force for global good, advocating for democracy and international stability. Australia has historically regarded the U.S. As a key ally. However, the ongoing war in the Middle East, compounded by actions taken during President Donald Trump’s second term, has raised questions about the reliability of the U.S. As a stabilizing force. Professor Peter Dean from the Australian National University suggests that we might be witnessing the end of an era where the U.S. Acted as a “global policeman.”
The international rules-based order, which has facilitated cooperation among nations and upheld shared democratic values, has largely depended on U.S. Influence since the post-war period. This order is now being challenged by the rise of authoritarian regimes in Iran, an aggressive Russia, and the growing clout of China. Dean notes that the U.S., once the dominant superpower, is now facing a multi-polar world where various states are vying for power and influence.
The Role of U.S.-Backed Global Institutions
Following World War II, the U.S. Played a pivotal role in establishing an international system aimed at averting future conflicts and economic collapses, such as those seen during the Great Depression and the Holocaust. The United Nations became central to this novel order, along with major financial institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, as well as various human rights and environmental organizations.
Christian Reus-Smit, a professor of international relations at the University of Melbourne, explains that even as the U.S. Wielded significant power, it also accepted the constraints of these institutions, aligning its actions with liberal values. However, in a speech to the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025, President Trump questioned the purpose of the UN, indicating a shift in U.S. Foreign policy.
Shifts in U.S. Foreign Policy
The Iraq War, initiated by former President George W. Bush in 2003 without UN approval, marked a significant turning point. The justification for the invasion—claims of weapons of mass destruction—was later discredited. Since then, successive administrations, including those of Obama and Biden, have sought to restore support for multilateral institutions, whereas Trump’s approach has diverged sharply.
Under Trump, the U.S. Withdrew from several key international agreements, including the Paris Climate Agreement and the Iran nuclear deal, and distanced itself from organizations like the UN Human Rights Council and the World Health Organization. His administration’s criticism of NATO has also raised concerns about the future of this vital military alliance.
Contemporary Challenges and Future Implications
Recent events, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Israel’s military actions following the October 7 terrorist attack in 2023, illustrate a breakdown of the norms that once constrained the use of force. Reus-Smit argues that many nations no longer see the U.S. As a reliable supporter of the international order, leading to a crisis in global governance.
Dean observes that the incoherence of Trump’s policies complicates the U.S.’s role. For instance, the ongoing conflict with Iran raises questions about the objectives of U.S. Military actions. The lack of clear goals—whether regime change, counterterrorism, or other aims—contributes to a perception of the U.S. As wielding power without a coherent strategy.
Australia’s Position in an Uncertain World
As Australia navigates its relationship with the U.S., there are growing concerns about the reliability of its ally. Reus-Smit emphasizes that Australia must adopt a pragmatic approach to its foreign policy, aware that its dependence on the U.S. Could compromise its own strategic interests.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s discussions with Trump in October 2025 resulted in assurances about economic and security ties, but the changing dynamics could necessitate a reevaluation of Australia’s foreign policy. Dean argues that the Australian government needs to invest more in diplomacy and defense capabilities to respond effectively to the shifting landscape.
As the global order continues to evolve, the world is likely to witness increased disruption and conflict. The U.S. Is still grappling with its role in this new multipolar environment, as are other nations, including Australia. The implications of these developments will be critical as countries seek to establish their positions in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
In light of these challenges, Australia must recognize that it has choices in its foreign policy and that it can play an active role in shaping a world order that aligns with its interests while maintaining its independence.
