The former head of Britain's Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) has issued a stark warning that a dangerous new principle now governs global affairs: 'might is right'. Sir Alex Younger stated that the world is increasingly dominated by 'strong men' who preside over spheres of influence, a shift he believes is personified by former US President Donald Trump.
A Warning from the Shadows
Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Sir Alex Younger, the longest-serving MI6 chief in half a century, analysed recent US military strikes on Venezuela. He argued these actions symbolise a fundamental change in the international order. 'We see, essentially, the world now governed by the idea that might is right and that strong men presiding over spheres of influences... is the basic operating unit of the world,' he stated. He directly linked this trend to Donald Trump, adding, 'I think Donald Trump embodies that.'
Sir Alex further cautioned that the UK's position is becoming untenable. He highlighted that by refusing to accuse Mr Trump of breaching international law over Venezuela, while condemning Russia for its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Britain risks serious allegations of hypocrisy, particularly from nations in the Global South. 'We present as hypocritical... when we posture around principle on the one hand, but where our key ally quite self-evidently follows the might is right principle,' he explained.
Public Faith in Democracy Erodes
This high-level warning coincides with alarming new public opinion research that underscores a crisis of confidence in democratic systems. A major survey of 20,000 people across 27 major democracies, conducted by consultancy FGS Global, reveals deep-seated anxieties:
- 69% believe democracy is weakening in their country.
- 68% feel their political system is failing.
- A striking 74% agree the system serves 'a rich and powerful elite' over ordinary people.
- 69% think 'strong leaders have increasingly more influence than international institutions'.
Perhaps most pessimistically, 73% of respondents believe life will be harder for the next generation, painting a bleak picture of the future.
The Implications of a New World Order
The convergence of a top intelligence expert's analysis and widespread public sentiment points to a pivotal moment. The concept of a rules-based international system, upheld by institutions and mutual agreements, is being challenged by a more transactional and power-centric model. This shift places traditional US allies, like the UK, in a difficult diplomatic position, forcing them to navigate between stated principles and the actions of a powerful partner.
The findings suggest that the rise of 'strong men' politics is not just a geopolitical concern but is also corroding public trust at home. As faith in democratic institutions wanes, the space for authoritarian-style leadership may grow, creating a feedback loop that further undermines the systems designed to check power.
