1. Introduction

The concept of international order lies at the heart of the study of international relations. In a system characterized by anarchy—the absence of a central global authority—states and other actors rely on various mechanisms and institutions to maintain a degree of order, stability, and predictability. International order refers to the structured patterns of interaction among states and other actors, underpinned by norms, rules, institutions, and balances of power that regulate behavior and help prevent the system from descending into chaos.

Throughout history, different mechanisms have emerged to maintain order, ranging from the balance of power in the classical European state system to international law, diplomacy, collective security arrangements, and, more recently, global governance institutions.