Colombia in the Global Hegemonic Interregnum: Southern Initiative Towards a Multipolar Geopolitics

Abstract

This article analyzes the transformation of Colombia’s foreign policy within the context of a global hegemonic interregnum. Drawing on the world-systems approach of Arrighi and Wallerstein, it examines how Colombia is reconfiguring its international engagement amid this transitional period, with emphasis on its relationship with the Global South and multipolarity. The methodology combines qualitative and quantitative analysis with documentary review. While the diplomatic shift became more visible under Petro’s government since 2022, this change had been taking shape for over two decades, especially through the strengthening of commercial ties with China and its potential accession to the Belt and Road Initiative. The results reveal a more autonomous and multilateral foreign policy, without implying a break from its traditional ally, the United States-though the process has generated tensions. The conclusions warn that this shift is neither structural nor irreversible: there is uncertainty regarding the relationship with China and a risk of reversal in the future.

Keywords

• Geopolitics
• South-South
• Multipolarity
• Belt and Road Initiative
• Foreign Policy
• China