The Rise of a New World Order: Oligarchs and Their Global Impact
The world is witnessing a shift in power dynamics as a new breed of oligarchs emerges, reshaping global politics and economics. But this isn't just a story of wealth accumulation; it's a tale of power, influence, and a controversial vision for the future.
The Oligarchic Surge:
Since 1985, a new wave of oligarchs has been rising to power, marking a significant shift in global leadership. From José Sarney in Brazil to General Ibrahim Babangida in Nigeria and Hun Sen in Cambodia, these individuals have amassed vast wealth and influence. The Center for the Study of Oligarchs estimates their wealth in billions, showcasing a trend that transcends traditional definitions of oligarchy.
Redefining Oligarchs:
Unlike the classic definition, these oligarchs are not just members of a small ruling group. They are economic and political powerhouses who acquire wealth and power, often using one to gain the other. This phenomenon is not limited to a specific region; it's a global trend with far-reaching consequences.
Oligarchs in Control:
In 2025, 33 oligarchs have held or currently hold positions as heads of state or government. Notably, 82% of them are from the Global South, and almost all are male. Six of the world's top 20 economies are led by oligarchs, including Xi Jinping, Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Prabowo Subianto, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and Mohammed bin Salman. Their collective wealth is staggering, with Mohammed bin Salman topping the list at an estimated $100 billion.
A World in Flux:
The rise of oligarchs coincides with a period of increasing global uncertainty, inequality, and institutional instability. Since 2017, with Trump's presidency and bin Salman's rule, the liberal international order has been eroding. This new world order is characterized by the normalization of oligarchic influence, challenging traditional governance.
Benefiting from Chaos:
Oligarchs can be categorized as business or political, depending on their primary source of power. Their wealth can be self-made, inherited, or gained through connections. Power manifests in decision-making, agenda-setting, or shaping public behavior through technology. Despite their differences, oligarchs share strategies that thrive in an unstable world, leading to what we call the 'Oligarch's World Order.'
The Six Pillars of Oligarchic Power:
- Inequality: Rising wealth inequality breeds more oligarchs, who then exploit this inequality to gain power.
- Uncertainty: Economic and political uncertainties create opportunities for oligarchs to expand their influence.
- Institutional Change: Declining rule of law and formal institutions allow oligarchs to accumulate wealth and power with fewer constraints.
- Authoritarianism: The oligarchs' world order is increasingly authoritarian, with 47% of oligarchic leaders in countries categorized as 'not free.'
- Global Influence: Oligarchs force nations to choose sides, creating spheres of influence that can lead to conflict and wealth generation.
- Wealth and Power: Oligarchs focus on both wealth creation and power accumulation, often blurring the lines between business and politics.
The Putin Example:
Russia's Vladimir Putin exemplifies this model. He rose to power by controlling other oligarchs, exploiting post-communist wealth inequality, and capitalizing on rising uncertainty. Declining rule of law allowed him to accumulate wealth and establish himself as a strongman.
The Future of the Oligarchic World:
- Oligarchs are moving beyond state control, wielding power through technology and non-state forms of influence.
- The rise of authoritarianism suggests potential increases in violence and civil disorder.
- The oligarchic sphere remains predominantly male-dominated, with limited opportunities for women.
- This world order is not based on liberal ideals but on opposing power spheres, forcing global actors to choose sides.
Stopping the Oligarchic Tide:
Reversing this trend is challenging. Historically, wars and revolutions have disrupted oligarchic orders. Containment strategies, as suggested by David Lingelbach and Valentina Rodríguez Guerra, involve understanding oligarchs, setting societal restrictions, non-governmental efforts, and using their tactics against them. Their books, 'The Oligarchs' Grip' and upcoming titles, explore these dynamics.
Controversy and Comment:
Is the rise of oligarchs an inevitable consequence of a changing world, or can it be curbed? Are their strategies a threat to democracy and stability, or a new form of global leadership? Share your thoughts below, and let's explore the complexities of this emerging world order.
