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Geopolitical Fragmentation in the World and Its Consequences on Developing Countries: A Game of Chess on a Fractured Board

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Abstract:

This paper explores the impact of geopolitical fragmentation on developing countries amid rising tensions between major powers like the USA, Russia, and China. It examines how these dynamics compel developing nations to make difficult decisions regarding economic survival, sovereignty, and growth. The analysis focuses on the economic, political, security, and environmental consequences of this fragmentation, using examples such as sanctions and trade wars. The study also assesses the role of the USA and its allies in shaping global governance, highlighting the challenges brought by the increasing influence of emerging powers like China and India. It argues for the need to reform institutions such as the IMF to better reflect the complexities of this fractured global landscape. At the same time, the paper emphasises the potential of regional institutions to address these challenges and foster cooperative development. Ultimately, the paper underscores the importance of navigating these shifts to ensure sustainable development in a divided geopolitical environment. 


© The Author(s) 2025. Published by RITHA Publishing under the CC-BY 4.0. license, allowing unrestricted distribution in any medium, provided the original work, author attribution, title, journal citation, and DOI are properly cited.


How to cite:

Muya, J. K. (2025). Geopolitical fragmentation in the world and its consequences on developing countries: a game of chess on a fractured board. Journal of Global Sustainability and Development, Volume II, Issue 2, 7 – 26. https://doi.org/10.57017/jgsd.v2.i2.01


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