The world feels…different. A sense of unease, a pervasive anxiety, hangs over global affairs. It’s a feeling articulated with striking clarity by Spanish journalist Enric Juliana and political analyst Esteban Hernández in their new book, Viaje a un Nuevo Mundo (Journey to a New World), published by Arpa. The book, described as a “medical scan” of the present, doesn’t offer easy answers, but rather a rigorous dissection of the forces reshaping our geopolitical landscape. It’s a conversation, a debate, a challenge to conventional thinking about the present and future, and a timely exploration of the anxieties defining the early 21st century.
Juliana and Hernández don’t present a unified theory, but rather a compelling dialogue born from years of observing and analyzing global events. Their work resonates particularly strongly now, as the world grapples with the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and a persistent inflationary environment. These events, layered upon decades of economic shifts and political realignments, have created a sense of instability and uncertainty that permeates societies across the globe. The authors argue that this isn’t merely a series of isolated crises, but a systemic shift – a move into what they term a “(Dis)Orderly Multipolar” world.
The roots of this shift, they contend, can be traced back to the 2008 financial crisis, a watershed moment that exposed the fragility of the post-Bretton Woods economic order. The crisis, originating in the US housing market, quickly spread globally, triggering a recession and eroding trust in financial institutions. As the web search results confirm, the 2007-2008 financial crisis deeply impacted banks across the United States and Europe. This event, coupled with the rise of new economic powers like China, began to challenge the long-held dominance of the United States and the Western-led international system. The authors suggest that the response to this crisis – and subsequent events – has been characterized by a failure of political leadership, a retreat into “cultural wars,” and an inability to address the underlying economic imbalances.
The Shifting Geopolitical Landscape
The book’s analysis extends beyond economics, delving into the geopolitical implications of a changing world order. The authors point to the rise of the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) and their expansion into BRICS+, as a key indicator of this shift. This bloc represents a growing challenge to the traditional dominance of Western powers, offering an alternative platform for economic and political cooperation. The expansion of BRICS, as noted in the Tektónikos analysis, signifies a core of articulation for the Global South. The authors highlight the increasing willingness of countries like Russia, Iran, and Venezuela to conduct trade in currencies other than the US dollar, particularly the Chinese yuan, as a further erosion of American economic influence. China’s growing economic power, as the world’s largest importer of hydrocarbons, is central to this trend.
The war in Ukraine, while a tragic and devastating conflict, is presented as a symptom of this broader geopolitical realignment. The authors suggest that the conflict has exposed the limits of Western influence and accelerated the process of multipolarization. Russia’s resilience in the face of Western sanctions, and the increasing support it receives from countries outside the Western alliance, are seen as evidence of a changing global power dynamic. The Tektónikos article specifically identifies Russia’s “progressive victory” over NATO in Ukraine as a defining moment in this new geopolitical landscape.
The Role of Technology and Disinformation
Viaje a un Nuevo Mundo doesn’t shy away from the role of technology in shaping this new reality. The authors argue that the proliferation of social media, algorithms, and artificial intelligence has created an environment ripe for manipulation and disinformation. This “epidemic of disappointing mood and generalized fear,” as they describe it, has contributed to the rise of populism, nationalism, and authoritarian tendencies around the world. The authors suggest that the constant bombardment of information, often biased or misleading, has eroded trust in institutions and fueled political polarization.
The increasing sophistication of artificial intelligence is as well identified as a potential threat. While AI offers immense potential benefits, it also poses risks related to job displacement, algorithmic bias, and the spread of misinformation. The authors suggest that the rapid pace of technological change is outpacing our ability to understand and regulate its impact, creating a sense of anxiety and uncertainty about the future. This concern aligns with broader discussions about the ethical implications of AI and the need for responsible innovation.
Echoes of Past Crises and the Search for New Governance
Juliana and Hernández draw parallels between the current situation and past periods of global upheaval, particularly the aftermath of the Vietnam War and the collapse of the Bretton Woods system in the 1970s. They argue that the current crisis is not entirely new, but rather a continuation of long-term trends that have been building for decades. The Espacio Público article highlights how the 2007-2008 financial crisis mirrored earlier disruptions to the dollar-based monetary system, specifically the shift to a petrodollar standard following the Vietnam War. This historical context provides a valuable perspective on the current challenges and suggests that there are no easy solutions.
The authors question whether the current global order is capable of adapting to these new realities. They suggest that the ideology of neoliberal globalization, while still dominant, is increasingly under pressure from both the left and the right. The rise of populist movements in Europe and the United States, and the growing appeal of alternative economic models, are seen as evidence of this discontent. The book doesn’t offer a blueprint for a new global order, but rather a call for critical thinking and a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. They emphasize the need for a more inclusive and equitable system that addresses the concerns of those who have been left behind by globalization.
A “Medical Scan” of the Present
The authors’ approach, framing their analysis as a “PET TAC” of the present, is particularly insightful. It suggests a need for careful diagnosis before attempting to prescribe solutions. Juliana and Hernández, as the source material notes, don’t necessarily agree on the diagnosis or the treatment, but their willingness to engage in a rigorous and honest debate is what makes their work so valuable. Their conversation, spanning 300 pages, is described as an “elegant intellectual fencing match,” where arguments are developed, challenged, and refined. This intellectual sparring encourages readers to think critically and form their own conclusions.
Viaje a un Nuevo Mundo is a sobering but essential read for anyone seeking to understand the complex forces shaping our world. It’s a reminder that the challenges we face are not simply political or economic, but also cultural and psychological. The authors offer no easy answers, but they do provide a framework for thinking about the future and a call to action for those who believe that a better world is possible. As the authors themselves acknowledge, “another world is possible,” but it will require a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths and embrace new ways of thinking.
Looking ahead, the ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the war in Ukraine, will continue to be a major focus of international attention. The next major development to watch will be the outcome of the upcoming G7 summit in Italy in June 2026, where leaders are expected to discuss strategies for addressing global economic challenges and coordinating a response to Russia’s aggression. Stay informed about these developments through reliable news sources like Reuters and the Associated Press.
What are your thoughts on the shifting global order? Share your perspectives in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your network.
Keep reading