'The interests of states are diverging from those of their citizens': Author Rana Dasgupta
France 24
by Stuart NORVALFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The author of a new book warns that the nation-state system, which has been the cornerstone of global governance since World War II, is at risk of collapsing. Rana Dasgupta argues that states are struggling to uphold key pillars such as citizenship, rule of law, economy, and healthcare. His concerns come amid growing political polarization and rising extremism worldwide. He highlights that while the post-1945 system has been largely successful in maintaining stability, it is now facing unprecedented challenges as state interests increasingly diverge from those of their citizens.
Dasgupta points to the decline of constitutional governance and rule of law as critical factors contributing to this breakdown. He notes that states are becoming less capable of addressing the needs and aspirations of their populations, leading to widespread disillusionment. This divergence is particularly evident in advanced democracies where political leaders often prioritize ideological agendas over public welfare.
The author emphasizes that this shift marks a significant departure from the post-war era, which was characterized by economic growth, social progress, and international cooperation. He warns that the erosion of these foundational systems could lead to widespread instability, as states become less able to deliver essential services and maintain social cohesion.
This divergence matters because it threatens the stability of nations and their ability to address global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and economic inequality. As states struggle to align their policies with citizen needs, the potential for conflict and fragmentation grows. Dasgupta’s insights are particularly relevant in today’s political climate, where trust in institutions is eroding, and global cooperation is more critical than ever.
His warnings come at a time when many countries are grappling with internal divisions and external pressures, raising questions about the future of governance and international relations. The breakdown of the nation-state system could have far-reaching implications for global security, economic stability, and human rights. As states increasingly prioritize their own interests over those of their citizens, the challenges to achieving meaningful progress on shared goals will only intensify.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/25/2026