---
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id: "66dfe26e3f8b4e9e69bf8317"
title: "Contemporary Centres of Power"
board: "CBSE"
curriculum: "CBSE"
class: "Class 12"
subject: "Political Science"
book: "Contemporary World Politics"
chapter: "Contemporary Centres of Power"
chapter_slug: "contemporary-centres-of-power"
canonical_url: "https://www.edzy.ai/cbse-class-12-political-science-contemporary-world-politics-contemporary-centres-of-power"
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source: "Edzy"
version: 1
last_updated: "2026-06-20"
---

# Contemporary Centres of Power

The chapter discusses the emergence of alternative centres of political and economic power following the end of the bipolar structure of world politics in the early 1990s. It focuses on the roles of the European Union (EU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), as well as the impact of China's economic rise.

---

## Knowledge Snapshot

| Field | Details |
| :--- | :--- |
| Class | Class 12 |
| Subject | Political Science |
| Book | Contemporary World Politics |
| Chapter | Contemporary Centres of Power |
| Pages | 15-28 |

---

## Chapter Summary

### Short Summary
This chapter examines how the EU and ASEAN serve as alternative centres of power in a global landscape previously dominated by the United States, alongside the significant economic developments in China.

### Detailed Summary
With the decline of a bipolar world order, it became apparent by the early 1990s that new political and economic powers could counterbalance American dominance. This chapter unveils the role of the EU and ASEAN as significant emerging coalitions which strive for regional cooperation and economic growth. It also delves into the substantial impact of China's economic rise on global politics. The EU, evolving from an economic union to a political bloc, has significant economic and military influence, while ASEAN prioritizes regional peace and economic cooperation among Southeast Asian nations. Together, these organizations highlight emerging dynamics in global politics.

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## Topic-Wise Explanation

### Overview of Contemporary Power Dynamics
The chapter analyzes the emergence of new political and economic powers post-1990s, focusing on the EU and ASEAN as crucial players.

### European Union
The EU has evolved from economic cooperation to greater political integration, influencing international relations, trade, and security policies among its member states.

### Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
ASEAN aims to foster economic growth and regional stability through informal cooperation and respect for national sovereignty, prioritizing peace and development within Southeast Asia.

### The Rise of the Chinese Economy
China's economic development is reshaping global politics, presenting both opportunities and challenges for established powers like the US and the EU.

### India – China Relations
The chapter briefly touches on India's evolving relationship with China, particularly in terms of trade and economic partnerships.

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## Core Ideas

| Idea | Explanation |
| :--- | :--- |
| Emergence of New Powers | The rise of the EU and ASEAN as counterweights to US dominance post-Cold War. |
| Economic Integration | The EU's transformation into a political entity with significant global influence. |
| Regional Cooperation | ASEAN's focus on harmonious relations and economic growth among Southeast Asian nations. |

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## Important Points for Revision

* The EU was established to promote economic cooperation and prevent conflicts in Europe.
* The formation of the European Union in 1992 involved several initiatives aimed at political and economic integration.
* ASEAN was formed in 1967 to enhance economic growth and promote regional stability in Southeast Asia.
* The EU's combined GDP is projected to be around $19.35 trillion in 2024.
* ASEAN's informal and non-confrontational approach avoids supranational structures.
* China's economic rise significantly influences global trade and political dynamics.
* Member states of ASEAN prioritize national sovereignty in their cooperative efforts.
* The EU's military capabilities are substantial but often limited by national policies of its members.

---

## Source Attribution

| Field | Value |
| :--- | :--- |
| Source | Edzy |
| Reference Type | examSubjectBookChapter |
| Reference ID | 66dfe26e3f8b4e9e69bf8317 |
| Canonical URL | https://www.edzy.ai/cbse-class-12-political-science-contemporary-world-politics-contemporary-centres-of-power |
| Markdown URL | https://www.edzy.ai/okf/chapter/cbse-class-12-political-science-contemporary-world-politics-contemporary-centres-of-power.md |