L' elefante non può saltare da solo: il ruolo della democrazia indiana nel sistema internazionale

Abstract

India is a political, economic and military power that lacks the recognition of the other selfdeclared ‘giants'. Its dynamism could however redefine the equilibria on both a regional and a global scale. The distinctive features of the Indian subcontinent indicate both the potential and limits: if identified and dealt with correctly, they could constitute a cultural and political model within the international system. An asymmetric democracy, born out of a diversified society, guarantees the solidity of the system. Could the domestic balance typical of the Indian State project on a wider scale, in the reorganisation of world order in a pluralist sense? So far, Delhi appeared isolated, lacking reinforced partnerships with other important players, pursuing instead a multi-alignment strategy on various fronts, in search of regional support and longer-range partners, very actively pursuing broader international ambitions. A growing number of world players however already feel the need to enlist India on their side. Time will tell.