London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – In a recent revelation, the United States took the top slot. It has emerged as the superpower in the world leaving behind others. However, Britain has also taken a spot in the global power slot. They are in the second spot right behind America. Other regional powers include France, Germany, Italy, Brazil, and Turkey.
The organization of the European Geostrategic rates the United Kingdom as a global power. Even though some believe that the country is lacking all the attributes of a superpower. However, they still need a wide range of international footprint and military means. They need to reach out to the most prominent geopolitical theaters particularly the Middle East and South East Asia.
UK Retains Economic, Cultural & Military Influence
The British armed forces comprise the Royal Navy. Many believe that the blue water navy needs a comprehensive and advanced fleet. While the Royal Marines are looking for more light infantry forces. When it comes to the British Army and UK’s principal land warfare force it needs a lot of new updates. However, the diverse range of operational fleets consists of modern aircraft and fixed-wing.
The UK is a major part of NATO along with other coalition operations. They recently become a part of Five Power Defence Arrangements. Some of the recent operations include Afghanistan and Iraq. The UK needs to intervene in Libya and conquer operations over Iraq and Syria.
All these things indicate the UK still retains economic, cultural, and military influence globally. It has become a recognized nuclear weapons state in a short time. When it comes to the defense budget, the UK will rank either fifth or sixth in the world. This country has been a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council since its very first day.
UK Ranks High In The Chinese Ranking System
The United Kingdom scores high in the Chinese ranking system. It is mentioned as comprehensive National Power’. They have maintained a good amount of weapons and trying to enhance their technology every year.
Generally many believe that the United States is one of the nations with the highest CNP. Countries like China have a large military force. However, they don’t have the logistical capability to deploy some of these forces. Professor Malcolm Chalmers who is the director of UK Defence Policy Studies has revealed:
“The UK will never again be a member of the select club of global superpowers. Indeed it has not been one for decades. But currently planned levels of defense spending should be enough for it to maintain its position as one of the world’s five second-rank military powers (with only the US in the first rank), as well as being (with France) one of NATO-Europe’s two leading military powers’’.
France Has Overtaken The UK In Soft Power
Interestingly, France has surpassed USA and Britain to come the world’s top soft power. The annual survey examines the non-military global influence. Britain came at the top of the list two years ago. This survey is putting the USA in a bad light citing the elections and other global perceptions.
Despite the public negotiations, the UK may have a different objective when it comes to soft power assets. These assets include state and privately-owned products. However, recent polls show that the rating of Britain is falling for some time now. This is happening largely due to the decline in the popularity of European countries. Outside the European Union, perceptions surrounding the UK remain the same.
Soft power is considered a unique concept in itself. It was first developed by Joseph Nye from Harvard University. There is no doubt that soft power refers to the ability of a country to have a good amount of force. The currency of soft power is tightening cultural, political, and foreign policies.
The UK Believes In Ambitious & Long Term Planning
The UK recently begins the task of implementing ambitious and long-term planning. They believe in setting up the objectives that turn out best for everyone. There is no doubt that public opinion gives a comprehensive context for bilateral engagements. The UK can move ahead of other countries leaving behind the other leading powers.
They can negotiate various trade deals and build an alliance according to their requirements. It may seem crucial to have a reliable and trustworthy partner that is willing to work in the favor of the UK. When it comes to soft power, the UK enjoys a strong position as compared to its competitors.