Last week, Atalanta’s CEO Elizabeth Ames took part in a New Diplomacy Project panel in Parliament titled “Is this the moment for middle powers?” The conversation explored the increasingly prominent role of middle powers in geopolitics and what their approaches can teach established actors such as the UK and Germany as the international landscape becomes more fragmented and transactional.
Drawing on recent research into how middle powers are shaping global governance, the panel examined the rise of flexible, issue-based coalitions. Influence today is less about fixed blocs and more about pragmatic alignment. From climate and trade to development and technology, countries are working across traditional divides on specific priorities, building partnerships grounded in shared interests and clearly defined outcomes. Many of these coalitions are unconventional, but their strength lies in focus and clarity of purpose.
Elizabeth emphasised that strategic clarity is central to effective coalition-building. Countries that are clear about who they are and what they are seeking to achieve are better placed to convene others and shape agendas. Without that discipline, partnerships can become reactive or symbolic. In a more competitive diplomatic environment, focus matters.
The discussion also highlighted the power of narrative. South Africa’s recent G20 presidency demonstrated how a coherent framing around equity and representation can shape international conversations. Brazil’s sequencing of the G20 and COP summits similarly reinforced a consistent story about its role as a bridge between North and South and as a prominent climate actor. Narrative, in this context, is not simply communications; it is a strategic tool that helps coalitions to cohere and signals intent to global audiences.
Another theme was the need for established middle powers to accommodate rising ones. As influence becomes more distributed, durable partnerships must reflect shifting geopolitical realities. Inclusion strengthens legitimacy and enhances the resilience of collective action.
For organisations operating internationally, these lessons are highly relevant. The environment in which our clients operate is shaped by the same dynamics: shifting alliances, contested narratives, and the need to build partnerships that deliver practical outcomes. Success increasingly depends on clarity of purpose and the ability to convene across sectors and regions.
At Atalanta, we work with clients to navigate this landscape, supporting them in defining their strategic narrative, identifying credible partners, and building coalitions that translate intent into impact.
If you would like to learn more about how we support clients in shaping partnerships and policy engagement, please click here or get in touch with us.
