By: Gayathri Pramod, Research Analyst, GSDN

The aspiration to create a better world is not merely a contemporary slogan but a longstanding ambition society has pursued throughout history. From post-war reconstruction and economic revitalization to sustainable development initiatives, humanity has continually sought to establish a more just, prosperous, and resilient global order. This vision holds renewed urgency in pressing global challenges, including climate change, economic disparities, political instability, and technological disruptions. The role of key global players—such as the United States, China, India, the G7, and BRICS—remains instrumental in shaping the world’s trajectory. However, differing interests and strategic approaches often lead to conflicts, making pursuing a truly better world a complex and contested endeavor. One significant initiative addressing global development challenges is the Build Back Better World (B3W) initiative. Introduced by the G7, B3W is designed to promote “values-driven, high-standard” infrastructure development, particularly in the developing world. In response to the mounting infrastructure deficit exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative seeks to mobilize private sector investments across four critical sectors: climate, health security, digital technology, and gender equity and equality. Rooted in the G7’s broader post-pandemic recovery efforts, B3W emphasizes sustainable economic growth, environmental protection, and adherence to democratic values, including freedom, the rule of law, and equality.

If effectively implemented, B3W has the potential to emerge as one of the most significant infrastructure initiatives led by democratic nations. With a broad geographic reach spanning Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, and the Indo-Pacific, the initiative strategically assigns each G7 member a regional focus, prioritizing support for low- and middle-income countries. While not explicitly positioned as a direct competitor to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), B3W naturally offers an alternative to the BRI’s vast global network, which connects Asia, Africa, and Europe through the Silk Road Economic Belt and the Maritime Silk Road. The interplay between these initiatives underscores the broader geopolitical competition shaping the global development landscape and highlights the diverging approaches of leading powers in fostering economic progress and international cooperation. Therefore, through this article, I will explore various facets of Bring Back Better World and its present scenario.

Philosophical Underpinning

The concept of rebuilding a better world has evolved significantly over time, shaped by historical events, economic shifts, and global crises. One of the most significant turning points in modern history came after World War II when the world witnessed large-scale reconstruction efforts to restore economic stability and prevent future conflicts. Among these efforts, the Marshall Plan was crucial in revitalizing war-torn Europe, providing much-needed financial assistance to rebuild infrastructure, industry, and governance systems. The success of the Marshall Plan not only facilitated Europe’s recovery but also strengthened international economic ties and set a precedent for future global cooperation.

Alongside these economic reconstruction efforts, establishing the United Nations in 1945 marked a monumental step toward fostering international collaboration. The UN was founded on diplomacy, collective security, and the prevention of large-scale conflicts. Its creation symbolized a global commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue rather than warfare, reinforcing that a peaceful and cooperative world was possible. Economic institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank also emerged to stabilize economies, promote financial stability, and support development projects in struggling nations. These institutions became key pillars in the global economic order, ensuring that countries had access to financial resources that could help them navigate economic challenges and foster long-term growth.

By the latter half of the 20th century, the focus of global development shifted towards globalization, trade liberalization, and rapid economic expansion. Technological advancements and increased international trade facilitated unprecedented economic growth, lifting millions out of poverty and transforming emerging economies such as China and India into global economic powerhouses. The expansion of multinational corporations, financial markets, and global supply chains interconnected economies in ways that were previously unimaginable. This era of globalization was characterized by economic optimism, with many countries embracing free markets, deregulation, and foreign investments as paths to prosperity. However, despite the benefits of economic expansion, this period also exposed the vulnerabilities of an interconnected world. Economic disparities widened as wealth concentrated in certain regions and among specific populations. Fueled by industrialization and excessive resource exploitation, environmental degradation has become an alarming global issue. Moreover, financial crises, such as the 2008 global economic downturn, revealed the fragility of financial systems and the risks associated with unregulated markets. These challenges underscored the need for a more balanced approach to economic growth, prioritizing social welfare, sustainability, and resilience.

As the world entered the 21st century, it faced various new and complex challenges. Climate change emerged as one of the most pressing issues, with rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental disasters threatening global stability. Meanwhile, digital transformations revolutionized industries, communications, and economies, bringing opportunities and challenges. The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, automation, and digital finance created new avenues for growth but raised concerns about job displacement, data privacy, and economic inequality. The COVID-19 pandemic further intensified these challenges, exposing weaknesses in global healthcare systems, supply chains, and economic resilience. As nations grappled with the economic and social repercussions of the pandemic, the phrase “Build Back Better” gained prominence, emphasizing the need not just to rebuild but to create a stronger, more equitable, and sustainable global system.

US and China’s role and significance

The United States has historically positioned itself as a global leader in promoting democracy, economic growth, and human rights. The US has played a crucial role in shaping global systems, from spearheading post-war reconstruction to leading the digital revolution. However, in recent years, its influence has been challenged by internal divisions, economic shifts, and the rise of new global players like China. Under the Biden administration, the US has actively promoted the concept of “Build Back Better World” (B3W), a counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The B3W aims to invest in infrastructure, climate resilience, and economic partnerships with developing nations, particularly in Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. However, the challenge lies in execution, as domestic priorities, political divisions, and financial constraints often limit its global ambitions.

Additionally, the US faces tensions with China over trade, technology, and military influence. While it continues to champion democratic values, its foreign policies sometimes appear inconsistent, leading to skepticism among allies and partners. The challenge for the US is to balance its leadership role while addressing domestic concerns and adapting to a multipolar world.

China’s approach to building a better world is vastly different from that of the US. Instead of emphasizing democracy and human rights, China focuses on economic development, infrastructure, and technological advancements as the primary means of global improvement. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is central to this vision, connecting countries through massive infrastructure projects, trade partnerships, and financial investments. Over the past decade, China has expanded its influence across Asia, Africa, and Europe through BRI, offering an alternative to Western-led financial institutions. While this has accelerated development in many countries, critics argue that it has also led to debt dependency, environmental concerns, and political leverage by China. The growing geopolitical rivalry with the US has further complicated its efforts, as many nations struggle to navigate between the two superpowers. China’s vision of a better world includes technological supremacy, with significant investments in artificial intelligence, 5G networks, and digital finance. However, concerns over data privacy, surveillance, and authoritarian governance have raised global debates on whether China’s model truly represents a better world or a more controlled one. The country’s role in climate initiatives and global trade remains crucial, as its policies significantly impact global carbon emissions and economic stability. China’s economic power has allowed it to create alternative financial institutions, such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), which competes with Western institutions like the World Bank. However, questions remain over China’s long-term intentions and the sustainability of its investments in partner nations.

India has maintained a cautious stance regarding China’s BRI, viewing it as a strategic challenge rather than an opportunity. While many neighboring countries have embraced Chinese investments, India has opted to strengthen its regional influence through initiatives like the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and its collaborations with Japan and the U.S. India’s vision for a better world focuses on democratic values, inclusive economic growth, and digital innovation. India is a key player in global development efforts as one of the fastest-growing economies. However, challenges such as income inequality, infrastructure gaps, and bureaucratic inefficiencies continue to hinder its progress. In response to China’s growing influence, India has strengthened its ties with the G7 and BRICS, balancing its partnerships with Western and emerging economies. Its role in climate action, digital governance, and regional stability will be critical in shaping the future global order.

The Group of Seven (G7), composed of the world’s largest advanced economies, has traditionally led efforts in global governance, economic stability, and climate initiatives. However, its influence has been challenged by the rise of emerging economies and shifting global dynamics. The G7’s commitment to rebuilding a better world is evident in initiatives like the B3W and climate action agreements. However, internal divisions, economic slowdowns, and geopolitical uncertainties have made it difficult to implement large-scale reforms effectively. The expansion of G7’s engagement with countries outside its traditional sphere is seen as an attempt to maintain relevance, but skepticism remains about its ability to drive real global change.

On the other hand, BRICS represents a counterbalance to Western-led institutions, advocating for a more multipolar world. The group focuses on economic cooperation, financial independence from Western systems, and technological collaborations. However, internal disagreements among BRICS members and geopolitical tensions, particularly between India and China, have limited its effectiveness as a unified force. The ongoing economic struggles in member nations like Brazil and South Africa have also raised doubts about BRICS’ ability to act as a coherent alternative to Western-dominated financial systems. Despite these challenges, the G7 and BRICS hold significant potential in addressing global issues such as poverty, climate change, and digital transformation. The key lies in fostering greater cooperation, bridging ideological divides, and ensuring that economic growth translates into real social benefits for all.

Bringing back a better world is not a straightforward process. The biggest challenges include geopolitical rivalries, economic disparities, environmental degradation, and technological disruptions. The increasing divide between democratic and authoritarian governance models adds another layer of complexity, making it difficult to establish a universal path to progress. Additionally, global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, financial instability, and regional conflicts have exposed weaknesses in existing systems. The need for a new global framework prioritizing sustainability, social equity, and innovation is more urgent than ever. However, achieving this requires genuine collaboration, responsible leadership, and a willingness to adapt to new realities. While nations like the US, China, and India play key roles, no single country can dictate the future alone. Multilateral efforts through G7, BRICS, the United Nations, and other global institutions must be strengthened to create a more inclusive, fair, and resilient world. Civil society, businesses, and technological innovators must also be part of the process, ensuring that progress benefits not just powerful nations but all of humanity.

The vision of restoring a better world is a historical pursuit and a present-day necessity. From post-war reconstruction to modern economic strategies, the quest for a better world has taken many forms, shaped by geopolitical interests, technological advancements, and social aspirations. Today, as the world faces complex challenges, the role of major global players—whether the US, China, India, G7, or BRICS—has never been more crucial. While their visions may differ, the ultimate goal remains the same: a world that is stable, prosperous, and sustainable for world future generations. The key lies in finding common ground, fostering cooperation, and ensuring that economic and technological progress translates into meaningful benefits for all. The journey may be long and complex, but with strategic efforts and global commitment, a better world is still within reach.

Conclusion

Today, the aspiration to build a better world is pursued through various global initiatives and power blocs, each offering distinct visions for the future. The European Union, for example, has prioritized sustainability and social welfare, implementing policies to combat climate change and promote economic inclusivity. China’s Belt and Road Initiative focuses on infrastructure development and economic connectivity, aiming to enhance trade and economic cooperation across multiple regions. The United States and its allies continue to advocate for democratic values, technological leadership, and strategic economic partnerships to counterbalance emerging global powers. International organizations such as the United Nations, World Health Organization, and IMF also play critical roles in addressing global issues, from public health and poverty alleviation to conflict resolution and humanitarian aid. As the world moves forward, the evolution of the idea of reconstruction continues to be shaped by changing circumstances and new global priorities. The lessons of history have demonstrated that cooperation, innovation, and resilience are essential in navigating the challenges of an ever-changing world. The need for sustainable development, economic inclusivity, and global stability remains at the forefront of discussions on the future of international cooperation. While the road ahead may be uncertain, the commitment to building a more equitable and resilient world drives local, national, and international efforts, shaping human progress for future generations.

By: Sonalika Singh, Research Analyst, GSDN

In the context of an increasingly interconnected world, the significance of bilateral relations between countries cannot be overstated. One such example of potential for growth and cooperation lies in the burgeoning relationship between India and Azerbaijan. These two nations, despite being geographically distant, share a multitude of interests, values, and strategic objectives that can contribute to building a strong, mutually beneficial partnership.

India, the world’s largest democracy and one of the fastest-growing economies, stands at a crossroads in terms of its foreign policy and global partnerships. As it looks to expand its presence and influence in global affairs, strengthening ties with nations like Azerbaijan offers a strategic opportunity. Azerbaijan, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a key player in the South Caucasus region, strategically positioned at the intersection of major energy routes and geopolitical interests.

Both nations, though different in size, history, and geography, find in each other a valuable partner capable of driving long-term collaboration across various domains. From energy cooperation to trade and strategic alliances, the India-Azerbaijan relationship has vast potential for mutual benefit.

India and Azerbaijan enjoy warm relations, rooted in civilizational linkages, cultural affinities, and shared values of understanding and respect for one another’s cultures. The Ateshgah fire temple near Baku is a prime example of the long-standing historical relations and cultural exchanges between India and Azerbaijan. This 18th-century monument, with an even older history, features wall inscriptions in Devanagari and Gurmukhi. It serves as a lasting testament to the trade links and hospitality enjoyed by Indian merchants traveling along the Silk Route to Europe, particularly in Azerbaijani cities such as Baku and Ganja.

The cultural exchanges over ages between Azerbaijan and India have led to close cultural affinity and shared traditions. World renowned Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi had a profound influence on eminent Indian poets like Amir Khusrau. In recent past, the famous Azerbaijani artist, Rashid Behbudov, a noted tenor who switched to singing popular Azerbaijani songs in European classical tradition, was a close friend of late Raj Kapoor. Indian intellectuals like Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore are well known in Azerbaijan.

During the period when Azerbaijan was part of the former Soviet Union, India’s Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, former President Dr. S. Radhakrishnan (as Vice President in 1956), and former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru (in 1961) visited the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic.

India recognized Azerbaijan as an independent country in December 1991 and established diplomatic relations in February 1992. The Indian Mission in Baku was opened in March 1999, while Azerbaijan opened its resident mission in New Delhi in October 2004.

Former Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu, visited Baku for the NAM Summit from 24-26 October 2019, accompanied by External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar. More recently, Dr. Jaishankar met Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov on the sidelines of the 19th NAM Summit in Kampala in January 2024. Former External Affairs Minister, Smt. Sushma Swaraj, visited Azerbaijan in April 2018 to attend the NAM Ministerial Conference and for a bilateral visit. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the online NAM Summit on the theme “United against COVID-19,” held at the initiative of Azerbaijani President on 04 May 2020. Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, visited Baku for the 6th meeting of the Inter-Governmental Commission on 25 October 2023.

Several ministerial-level visits from Azerbaijan to India have taken place since 1991. Deputy Foreign Minister Mr. Elnur Mammadov visited India in November 2022 for Foreign Office Consultations and again in March 2023 to participate in the Raisina Dialogue. Deputy Minister of Economy Mr. Sahid Mammadov visited India to participate in the Vibrant Gujarat Summit in January 2019. Mr. Mukhtar Babayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, visited Delhi to attend the 5th Inter-Governmental Commission in October 2018. Mr. Samir Sharifov, Minister of Finance, visited India in February 2018. Mr. Nagif Hamzayev, Member of Parliament, visited India under ICCR’s Distinguished Visitors’ Programme in August 2019.

In June 1998, the two countries signed an agreement on economic and technical cooperation, and in April 2007, they signed a deal to establish the India-Azerbaijan Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, and Technological Cooperation. This marked the beginning of a stronger and more meaningful relationship between the two nations, creating new opportunities for cooperation and mutual benefit. However, in recent decades, China’s growing influence in Eurasia and the ongoing hostility between India and Pakistan have hindered India’s efforts to establish direct connectivity for robust trade and economic relations with the region.

To overcome these obstacles and revive its historic relationship with the Caucasus region, India has pursued several connectivity projects. In 2002, India, Russia, and Iran signed an intergovernmental agreement to construct the 7,200-km International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a multimodal transport route that includes sea, rail, and road links connecting Mumbai (India) to Saint Petersburg (Russia) via Iran. India has also invested heavily in the Chabahar Port in the Iranian province of Sistan-Balochistan. However, these initiatives have faced delays due to investment challenges following renewed US sanctions on Iran, inter-regional disputes, and bureaucratic hurdles for certain projects, such as the 628 km-long Chabahar-Zahedan railway line and the 164 km Rasht-Astara railway line. Nevertheless, in July 2022, the INSTC recorded its first shipment from Russia’s Astrakhan Port to India’s Jawaharlal Nehru Port.

Azerbaijan became part of the INSTC in 2005, and its well-developed railways and strategic seaport in Baku have paved the way for the Western Route of the INSTC, which runs west of the Caspian Sea. The Western Route connects the Iranian ports of Chabahar and Bandar Abbas in the Arabian Sea to the vast railway networks in Eurasia, particularly the Baku-Tbilisi-Batumi or Baku-Tbilisi-Kars transnational rail connections constructed under the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), sometimes referred to as the ‘Middle Corridor.’ The TITR is a multimodal route that enhances connectivity between Asia and Europe, spanning Central Asia, the Caspian Sea, and the South Caucasus. This makes the Western Corridor of the INSTC via Azerbaijan more economical and strategic for India.

Furthermore, the impacts of the Russia-Ukraine war, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2021 Suez Canal blockade have underscored the need for new transport corridors and connectivity projects across Eurasia, which spans an area of 54.76 million square kilometers and is home to about 60 percent of the world’s population. At the same time, India’s robust economy requires connectivity to the vast Eurasian markets to ensure reliable, resilient, and diversified supply chains. Enhancing connectivity between India and the broader Eurasian region is vital for fostering regional stability and promoting economic growth for the countries involved.

One of the most important areas of collaboration between India and Azerbaijan is in the field of energy. Azerbaijan, rich in oil and natural gas reserves, presents India with an opportunity to diversify its energy sources. Energy security remains a priority for India, given its growing population, industrial expansion, and increasing demand for energy. Azerbaijan’s large deposits of hydrocarbons make it an essential partner for India in the quest for alternative energy suppliers.

The Southern Gas Corridor, which connects Azerbaijan’s Shah Deniz field to Europe, exemplifies the potential of this energy partnership. Azerbaijan, as a key player in the Caspian region, is well-positioned to offer India access to its oil and gas resources. By establishing reliable trade routes for energy, India can mitigate the risks posed by its dependence on traditional sources of energy, such as the Middle East.

Furthermore, Azerbaijan is exploring renewable energy sources, particularly in wind and solar power, areas where India has a burgeoning expertise. Cooperation in the development of these technologies could be another area of significant bilateral collaboration. India’s experience with large-scale renewable projects, such as its solar energy program, could provide Azerbaijan with the technical know-how required to build and scale such projects.

Azerbaijan’s favorable business climate, along with India’s growing demand for goods and services, presents an excellent opportunity for trade expansion. India is the seventh-largest trading partner of Azerbaijan, with bilateral trade totaling US$ 1.435 billion in 2023. That same year, India became the third-largest destination for Azerbaijan’s crude oil. Azerbaijan also saw a significant increase in tourism from India, with over 115,000 Indian visitors, nearly double the number of arrivals in 2022. As the fourth-largest source of inbound tourists to Azerbaijan, after Russia, Türkiye, and Iran, India stands as the largest source of tourists for Azerbaijan when excluding neighboring countries. Direct flight connectivity between New Delhi and Baku has grown to 10 flights per week, while there are 4 direct flights per week between Mumbai and Baku. Additionally, in the past four years, around 30 Indian movies and advertisements have been filmed at various locations across Azerbaijan.

The Indian community in Azerbaijan comprises of more than 1500 people, including professionals employed with international companies in the oil and gas sector, businessmen engaged in commodities trading, catering & restaurant business, and construction workers on short-term contracts. There are five Indian associations in Azerbaijan, viz., Indian Association Azerbaijan (IAA), Baku Malyalee Association (BMA), Baku Tamil Sangam (BTS), Azerbaijan Telugu Association (ATA), and Indian Student Association Azerbaijan (ISAA), which work in close association with the Embassy. They regularly hold social events to celebrate major Indian festivals and events. The Indian community is very active both professionally and socially and has integrated well with the local population.

The absence of regular high-level visits between both the nations has been a barrier to strengthening the relationship. While Azerbaijan is an important partner for India both geographically and economically in the Caucasus region, high-level political visits are essential to further advancing the bilateral relationship. The Indian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Sridharan Madhusudhanan, emphasized the importance of holding a dialogue between the two countries to address and resolve any problematic issues in their bilateral relations.

For India, enhancing its strategic ties with Azerbaijan is essential in ensuring its security and maintaining influence in the broader Eurasian region. India’s “Act East” policy and its increasing engagement with Central Asia and the South Caucasus align well with Azerbaijan’s geopolitical interests. Both countries are keen to expand their influence in international organizations such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Enhanced defence and strategic cooperation could also pave the way for greater collaboration in peacekeeping missions and multilateral security initiatives.

India and Azerbaijan share a long history of cultural and economic ties, yet there remain numerous untapped opportunities for further cooperation between the two nations. Azerbaijan is India’s largest trading partner in the Caucasus region, and New Delhi stands as one of the biggest investors in Baku. Through sustained diplomatic efforts, investment in people-to-people connections, and strategic cooperation, India and Azerbaijan can build a future of prosperity, security, and mutual benefit. The next chapter in this dynamic partnership promises substantial rewards for both nations as they collaborate to address common challenges and seize new opportunities.