Multilateralism and minilateralism are the main mechanisms of global governance. is characterized by membership inclusiveness, a low entry threshold for new members, focus on universality, while exclusivity, high no universality. Contemporary multilateral institutions emerged after World War II under influence American hegemony. The US commitment to multilateralism in governance has been incons...

Set amidst growing global challenges and great power politics, this article asks how middle powers might best promote collective action. Adopting a historical approach, it explores four case studies on multilateralism in (1) post-1974 UN New International Economic Order; (2) post-1989 Bretton Woods institutions; (3) post-1992 European Union expansion; (4) post-2003 South- South cooperation. The...