The Impact of Rising Powers in International Security and Conflict Resolution: Case Studies of Turkey and China

Abstract

The United Nations established post-WWII international conflict resolution, however; Cold War bipolarity and subsequent US unipolarity aligned global security processes with American foreign policy. In the 21st century, emerging powers like China and Turkey challenge this unipolar structure, redefining global security governance and dispute mediation. Using a qualitative multiple-case study methodology, this research analyzes primary diplomatic sources, foreign policy white papers, treaty records, peacebuilding data, and secondary IR literature alongside media discourse to evaluate both nations' strategic engagements over the past two decades. The findings indicate that China and Turkey are playing increasingly active, constructive roles in international conflict resolution. By leveraging economic diplomacy, regional security alliances, peacebuilding operations, and normative advocacy, they provide viable alternatives to US-dominated institutions. Ultimately, this shift signals a broader systemic transition toward a multipolar international order defined by dispersed power and diversified governance centers.