Is US Prestige Irreparable?
Is US Prestige Irreparable? What Must Be Done to Repair It
For much of the 20th century, the United States was seen as a beacon of hope, freedom, and opportunity. Its leadership in World War II, its role in rebuilding Europe through the Marshall Plan, and its firm stand against the spread of communism during the Cold War cemented its position as a superpower—and as a global leader whose prestige was unmatched. However, as the first quarter of the 21st century nears its close, the question looms: is U.S. prestige irreparable?
The challenges to American prestige are multifaceted. From costly military interventions to economic crises, from political polarization to shifting global power dynamics, the United States finds itself in a precarious position. Repairing U.S. prestige requires not only addressing the root causes of its decline but also reimagining the nation’s role in an increasingly multipolar world.
The Erosion of American Prestige
American prestige has suffered a series of significant blows over the past two decades. The 2003 invasion of Iraq, conducted under the guise of eliminating weapons of mass destruction, severely damaged U.S. credibility. The prolonged nature of the war, combined with revelations of torture at Abu Ghraib and the broader failures of U.S. strategy in the Middle East, led to a loss of trust among allies and adversaries alike.
Domestically, the 2008 financial crisis exposed vulnerabilities in the American economic model. The perception of the U.S. as a safe haven for investment was shaken, and the crisis underscored the interdependence of global economies. Countries that once looked to the United States as a stabilizing force found themselves questioning its reliability.
More recently, the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 served as a stark reminder of the limits of American power. While the decision to end the “forever war” was widely supported, the manner in which it was executed—with scenes of desperate Afghans clinging to departing planes—projected weakness and poor planning.
The polarization of American politics has further exacerbated the decline in prestige. Events such as the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection showcased to the world the fragility of American democracy. Meanwhile, inconsistent foreign policies between administrations—from "America First" under Donald Trump to renewed multilateralism under Joe Biden—have left allies unsure of the U.S.’s commitments.
The Consequences of Lost Prestige
The erosion of U.S. prestige has far-reaching consequences. For decades, the United States enjoyed a “hegemonic stability” role, providing public goods such as security and open markets. This leadership fostered a global order that benefited both the U.S. and its allies. However, as American prestige wanes, challengers such as China and Russia are stepping into the vacuum.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has extended Beijing’s influence across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Through infrastructure investments and loans, China has positioned itself as an alternative to Western-led development models. Meanwhile, Russia’s assertiveness—from annexing Crimea to interfering in democratic elections—has highlighted the waning influence of American deterrence.
Even long-standing allies are recalibrating their foreign policies. European nations, for example, are taking steps toward strategic autonomy, as evidenced by initiatives within the European Union to reduce dependence on U.S. security guarantees. Middle Eastern allies, such as Saudi Arabia, have also begun diversifying their partnerships, engaging with China and Russia on energy and security issues.
What Must Be Done to Repair U.S. Prestige
Repairing U.S. prestige is no small task. It requires a combination of domestic renewal, strategic vision, and diplomatic engagement. Here are five key steps the United States must take:
Recommit to Democratic Values American democracy has long been a cornerstone of its soft power. To restore prestige, the U.S. must address its domestic political dysfunction. This includes safeguarding electoral integrity, combating misinformation, and reducing hyper-partisanship. A functioning democracy at home strengthens the U.S.’s ability to champion democratic ideals abroad.
Invest in Economic Competitiveness A strong economy underpins national power. The U.S. must invest in infrastructure, education, and technology to remain competitive in a globalized world. Initiatives such as revitalizing manufacturing through the CHIPS Act and pursuing clean energy innovation can position the U.S. as a leader in emerging industries. Trade policies should also emphasize fair competition while ensuring that global economic interdependence remains an asset rather than a liability.
Rebuild Strategic Alliances Alliances have been a pillar of American strength. To regain trust, the U.S. must prioritize consistent engagement with allies. NATO, for example, remains crucial in countering Russian aggression in Europe. In the Indo-Pacific, partnerships with nations like Japan, South Korea, and Australia are essential for addressing China’s rise. The U.S. should also expand its diplomatic footprint in regions like Africa and Latin America, where its presence has diminished.
Lead on Global Challenges The United States must play a proactive role in addressing global issues that transcend borders, such as climate change, pandemics, and cyber threats. By taking bold actions—like rejoining the Paris Agreement and committing to substantial emissions reductions—the U.S. can reassert its moral leadership. Supporting global health initiatives and cooperating on cybersecurity standards can further demonstrate a commitment to collective security.
Develop a Clear and Sustainable Foreign Policy Vision The inconsistency of U.S. foreign policy has undermined its credibility. A long-term strategy that transcends partisan divides is essential. This vision should recognize the realities of a multipolar world while emphasizing the importance of rules-based international order. Diplomatic engagement, economic statecraft, and military readiness must all align toward coherent objectives.
The Road Ahead
While the challenges to U.S. prestige are significant, they are not insurmountable. History shows that nations can recover from periods of decline. The United States itself rebounded from the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal, emerging stronger in the 1980s and 1990s.
However, repairing U.S. prestige will require humility. It means acknowledging past mistakes and committing to learning from them. It also means recognizing that leadership in the 21st century is less about dominance and more about partnership. The United States must lead not by imposing its will but by inspiring others to join in common causes.
The stakes are high. The erosion of American prestige is not just a loss for the United States; it is a loss for the global community. The liberal international order, despite its imperfections, has provided a framework for unprecedented peace and prosperity. Allowing that order to fragment risks a return to great power competition and instability.
Ultimately, the question of whether U.S. prestige is irreparable depends on the choices America makes today. By addressing its domestic and international challenges with clarity and resolve, the United States can rebuild its standing and continue to be a force for good in the world. The world is watching, and the time to act is now.