The Great Irresponsibles? Rising Powers and International Society

Rising powers, especially Brazil, Russia, India and China, have been notably critical of the way Western states enforce their own understanding of the norms of international society on weaker powers. In turn, Brazil, China and India have been criticised for 'free-riding' on the established great powers. During moments of crisis, regional actors, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa, tend to look to the United States or Europe for a response rather than the global East or South. Looking at voting patterns, sponsored resolutions and statements in the United Nations, this paper will examine how Brazil, India and China understand responsibility and see if there is a coherence to their actions that might reflect a different approach to global norms; or, if they really are simply acting irresponsibly.