This chapter critically investigates how Western empires have historically dominated the “world order” by employing their economic and military power, and established core-periphery hierarchies that persists even after multiple waves of decolonisation in various forms. It further establishes that the new world order challenges the Western-dominated neoliberal ideology and promotes inclusivity, justice, and equity in the world. This is even more apparent after the financial crisis of 2008 which showcases the failures of neoliberalism. Additionally, this chapter establishes that civilisational politics is strategically used by nations like India and China to reassert their identities and influence, contrasting policies such as “Make in India”, which demonstrates India's economic sovereignty with China's assertive approach through policies like its “Belt and Road Initiative”. Therefore, this chapter summarises that India's strategically autonomous foreign policy contrasts with China's pursuit of dominance through hard power. This shows a deeper ideological divergence that highlights their unique strategic engagement, which is rooted in their respective civilisational ethos, significantly impacting their individual global power dynamics.