A rules-based order is essential for global stability, promoting legality, fairness, and equality in the Indo-Pacific region. This essay examines the role of Quad in upholding the rules-based order and how it can improve. This essay provides policy recommendations and explores synergies with other international frameworks for a unified approach.

1.    Introduction

In today’s times when geopolitical tensions between countries challenge the stability and security of the international landscape, the concept of a rules-based order emerges as a cornerstone for maintaining global peace and equilibrium. This framework, centred on the principles of legality, fairness, and equality among states, seeks to ensure that international relations are governed by agreed-upon rules rather than being based on power. Maintaining a global rules-based order is pivotal for ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. This fosters an environment conducive to cooperation, development, and mutual respect among nations.

A free and open Indo-Pacific is critical for balancing global geopolitical tussle, and this very reason underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in bolstering a rules-based international order. This essay outlines:

• The foundational aspects of what constitutes a rules-based global order.
• Examines how the Quad can build, maintain, and enhance this rule-based order.
• Presents policy recommendations to bolster the effectiveness of the Quad.
• Explores ways of creating synergies with other international frameworks to reinforce a unified approach towards the mission.

2.    Foundational Aspects Of A Rules-based Global Order

The concept of a “rules-based global order” is fundamentally about maintaining international stability and fairness by adhering to agreed-upon norms and laws. This system, deeply rooted in the aftermath of global conflicts and the subsequent establishment of international bodies, seeks to ensure peaceful interactions and the upholding of justice across nations.

Quad being one of the most crucial partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, needs to undergo a rigorous transformation into a rules-based global order so that it can uphold the fundamental principles of peaceful coexistence.

2.1.Key Principles Of Rules-based Order

The rules-based order is built on the foundation of several key principles and values that promote peaceful coexistence and cooperative behaviour among states. These principles are largely drawn from the values embedded in the United Nations Charter (Parley Policy Initiative, 2023), which emphasizes:

• Universal respect for justice.
• The rule of law.
• Human rights.

The order is designed to provide a platform where all countries can engage fairly and equitably. Historical instances, such as the establishment of the League of Nations and later the United Nations, highlight the international community’s recurring recognition of the need for a structured system of governance (Parley Policy Initiative, 2023).

The rules-based order supports legalities, economic integration, and security cooperation that are critical for global stability and prosperity. One of the key members of Quad- Australia, has recognized the importance of defending and promoting such legal intricacies due to shifting power dynamics on the global stage (Scott, Nyst, & Roggeveen, 2021).

2.2.Historical Perspectives

Historically, the recognition of the need for a rules-based order can be traced back to the early 20th century when the catastrophic consequences of a lack of international regulation became glaringly apparent around the time of the Great War. The Treaty of Westphalia and later the establishment of the League of Nations were early attempts to create a regulated international environment.

Although the League of Nations failed to deliver its underlying intentions, the idea persisted. After the Second World War, the international community, led by powers such as the United States, sought to create a more stable and enduring system. This led to the creation of the United Nations and the establishment of a comprehensive framework of international laws and norms (Parley Policy Initiative, 2023). The post-war era saw the expansion of this system through the introduction of various global institutions like the World Bank and the IMF, which further solidified the rules-based order (Lowy Institute, 2024).

The rules-based system has not only been a central pillar in maintaining global peace but has also facilitated economic growth and human development across nations. The success of this system is evident in the enhanced global cooperation and the general upliftment of societies that participate in this order. By understanding these key principles and historical contexts, it becomes evident why reinforcing the rules-based order is crucial for preserving the conditions necessary for global peace and prosperity.

Quad, being a potential stronghold in the Indo-Pacific region would be sooner or later required to establish such a playbook that is based on the rule-based principles. This will not only solidify the alliance but also ‘institutionalize’ it.

3.    Current Role of the Quad In Global Order

Quad is currently limited to being a security dialogue, or more of a cooperation movement or an alliance to deter China’s influence in the maritime ecosystem and safeguard the interest of the partner countries and their partners. It is critical for Quad to institutionalize itself and take actions based on a rule-based methodology. This will cater better for achieving its underlying goals and beyond.

3.1.Strategic Objectives

The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, commonly known as the ‘Quad’, comprises the United States, Australia, India, and Japan. These nations share a vision for a region governed by accepted rules and norms, aiming to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific. This strategic objective is rooted in the commitment to uphold a rules-based order where countries are free from coercion and can resolve conflicts according to international law (Carafano, 2022). The agenda of Quad extends beyond strategic or economic purposes; it serves as a core stabilizing pivot around which an inclusive rules-based order can evolve and thrive.

3.2.Military and Security Contributions

The Quad has not evolved into a formal military alliance like NATO, but it has turned into an important cooperative security framework in the Indo-Pacific (Carafano, 2022). The Quad’s military and security contributions are highlighted in events like the Malabar naval exercises and the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness. These initiatives enhance interoperability among the navies of the Quad nations and align operating procedures for maritime contingencies, ensuring a cohesive response to regional security challenges.

The Quad also addresses broader security challenges, including the expansion of the US military presence in the Indo-Pacific to counterbalance potential threats from Chinese Navy (Chen, 2022). This collective defence mechanism, though not a tight mutual defence alliance, allows for flexible cooperation on a range of military and non-military issues, enhancing the region’s security architecture (Chen, 2022).

3.3.Diplomatic and Political Influence

The Quad leverages the democratic values and political influence of its member countries. The leaders of the Quad nations have repeatedly emphasized their commitment to a region that is free, open, inclusive, and anchored by democratic values (Fraser, 2023). This diplomatic stance is crucial in countering China, whose law-defying actions in the region have raised concerns among Quad partners and other states in the region.

Moreover, the Quad engages in strategic dialogues and forms partnerships with other nations and regional organizations to promote stability and security. This includes supporting initiatives that build resilience and economic growth, such as investments in quality infrastructure and technological innovation (Smith, 2021). By doing so, the Quad strengthens its own diplomatic and political influence, and also supports maintenance of a rules-based global order.

However, the diverse set of national interests of the Quad members also act as a repulsive force when it comes to closer cooperation. India and the United States are in this cooperation because they do not have any other option than each other to counterbalance Chinese influence in the region (Singh, 2023).

4.    Policy Recommendations- How To Make Quad More Effective?

4.1.Institutional Reforms And Governance Models

The Quad should consider enhancing its institutional framework to strengthen its effectiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. This could involve establishing a secretariat or adopting a charter to formalize its structure, although there is currently little interest among member countries in further institutionalizing the Quad due to the flexibility of the informal arrangement (Mohan & Govella, 2022). However, the Quad could benefit from clearer governance models that define roles and responsibilities, potentially increasing the organization’s impact on regional stability and cooperation. A flexible approach can as well be a loose link in the chain, which will be leveraged by the counter parties.

4.2.Collaborative Economic Policies

Economic collaboration is pivotal for the Quad’s success in promoting a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Initiatives such as the Quad Vaccine Partnership and the critical and emerging technologies working group highlight the importance of collaborative economic policies. These initiatives not only address immediate regional needs but also build long-term resilience against economic disruptions (Chellaney, 2021).

The Quad should continue to support infrastructure projects that are financially sustainable and counteract practices like debt-trap diplomacy that China undertakes via its belt and road initiative (BRI) (Chellaney, 2021). Many states in the region would be interested in such projects which would mitigate the risk of their economies being susceptible to the risks that come with the Chinese BRI.

4.3.Technology, Military, And Maritime Security Initiatives

In the realm of technology, military, and security, the Quad has made significant strides, including the launch of the Quad Cybersecurity Partnership and the endorsement of principles for secure software. Such security initiatives are crucial for protecting the infrastructure of the Indo-Pacific from conventional and other threats like cyber threats (White House Press Release, 2023). Additionally, the Quad’s commitment to advancing AI technology and ensuring that the benefits of new technologies are shared regionally is essential for maintaining technological leadership and security.

Alongside, the digital and economic public infrastructure, the development of secure and resilient supply chains for military are also recommended to enhance the collective maritime security posture of the Quad nations in the Indo-Pacific region (Chaudhuri & Gupta, 2024).

4.4.Creating Synergies with Other International Frameworks

• Aligning with UN and Other Multilateral Institutions: The Quad should strategically position itself to leverage the United Nations (UN) platform to advance a rules-based global order. By uniting their efforts within the UN, the Quad members should strengthen their collective influence on maritime affairs starting with Indo-Pacific region. This includes pushing for long-awaited reforms such as inclusion of the India and Japan as permanent members in UNSC, a move that could significantly enhance their strategic positions(Panda, 2022). Quad should also vigorously promote the international law in the maritime domain as outlined in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
• Enhancing Bilateral and Multilateral Ties: The Quad’s engagement should extend beyond multilateral platforms like the UN, focusing also on strengthening ties within the Indo-Pacific through bilateral and multilateral relationships. For example, deepening cooperation with the ASEAN nations and endorsing the EU’s strategy for cooperation in the region.
  • In addition to regional partnerships, the Quad should seek to bolster economic and security ties with other nations. Japan, for instance, has been proactive in offering Southeast Asian countries alternatives to Chinese assistance, aiming to reduce the region’s economic dependency on China(Smith, 2021).

By enhancing these bilateral and multilateral ties, the Quad can establish a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, guided by the principles of a rules-based order.

5.    Conclusion

The importance of reinforcing the rules-based order has never been more critical. The collaboration within the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) stands as a testament to the collective effort required to uphold these democratic principles and norms, ensuring a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region. Through strategic objectives, military cooperation, and diplomatic engagement, the Quad can significantly contribute to fostering an environment conducive to peace, underpinned by a commitment to legality, fairness, and equality.

The Quad’s ongoing dedication to promoting a rules-based global order remains essential in facing the challenges of rising nationalism and shifting power dynamics in the region with China’s and its partners’ rise. By strengthening existing alliances, embracing collaborative economic policies, and furthering technological partnerships, the Quad can enhance its influence and effectiveness in maintaining global stability. Their efforts highlight the significance of collective action in advancing the postulates of a free, open, and inclusive international order.

6.    References

1. Carafano, J. J. (2022, May 24). The Quad eyeing Indo-Pacific security. Retrieved from Gis Reports Online: https://www.gisreportsonline.com/r/quad-indo-pacific-security/
2. Chaudhuri, R., & Gupta, A. (2024, February 19). A Quad Initiative on Digital Public Infrastructure. Retrieved from Carnegie Endowment: https://carnegieendowment.org/posts/2024/02/a-quad-initiative-on-digital-public-infrastructure?lang=en
3. Chellaney, B. (2021, December 20). The Quad’s Geo-Economic and Geostrategic Implications. Retrieved from Research Institute Of Economy, Trrade And Industry: https://www.rieti.go.jp/en/special/p_a_w/174.html
4. Chen, D.-c. E. (2022, April 01). Let Taiwan and the Quad Fight Side by Side: How Can the Quad Incorporate Taiwan into Its Military Deterrence against China? Journal of Indo-Pacific Affairs. Retrieved from https://www.airuniversity.af.edu/JIPA/Display/Article/2979897/let-taiwan-and-the-quad-fight-side-by-side-how-can-the-quad-incorporate-taiwan/
5. Fraser, D. (2023, May 16). The Quad: A Backgrounder. Retrieved from Asia Society Policy Institute: https://asiasociety.org/policy-institute/quad-backgrounder
6. Lowy Institute. (2024). The United States And The Rules Based Order. Retrieved from Lowy Institute: https://interactives.lowyinstitute.org/features/usa-rules-based-order/
7. Mohan, G., & Govella, K. (2022, June 21). The Future of the Quad and the Emerging Architecture in the Indo-Pacific. Retrieved from German Marshall Fund: https://www.gmfus.org/news/future-quad-and-emerging-architecture-indo-pacific
8. Panda, J. (2022, February 17). A Coalition for Peace and Security: The Power of the Quad in the United Nations. Retrieved from AsiaGlobal Online: https://www.asiaglobalonline.hku.hk/coalition-peace-and-security-power-quad-united-nations
9. Parley Policy Initiative. (2023, May 03). The “Rules-Based International Order,” explained. Retrieved from Parley Policy: https://www.parleypolicy.com/post/the-rules-based-international-order-explained
10. Scott, B., Nyst, M., & Roggeveen, S. (2021). Australia’s Security and the Rules-Based Order. Retrieved from lowyinstitute: https://interactives.lowyinstitute.org/features/rules-based-order/
11. Singh, A. K. (2023, June 10). DPG POLICY BRIEF, India, the US and Progress of the Quad. Retrieved from Delhi Policy Group: https://www.delhipolicygroup.org/publication/policy-briefs/india-the-us-and-progress-of-the-quad.html
12. Smith, S. A. (2021, May 27). The Quad in the Indo-Pacific: What to Know. Retrieved from Council On Foreign Relations: https://www.cfr.org/in-brief/quad-indo-pacific-what-know
13. White House Press Release. (2023, May 20). Quad Leaders’ Joint Statement. Retrieved from The White House: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/05/20/quad-leaders-joint-statement/