Understanding Middle Powers in Development Cooperation

In an era of fragmenting geopolitics and declining aid, traditional development powers are pulling back from global cooperation. Yet leadership is not disappearing – it’s shifting.

A diverse cohort of middle powers – from Nordic nations to Brazil, India, South Africa, and beyond – are emerging as vital architects of a more equitable development system. These countries bring agility, diplomatic legitimacy, and genuine commitment to inclusive governance that challenges outdated donor-recipient models.

This paper maps the rising influence of middle powers across development cooperation and finance. Through analysis of their capabilities, behaviors, and values, the authors make the case that these actors are filling critical leadership voids, bridging North-South divides, and championing reforms to multilateral institutions that have long favored traditional donors.

The research identifies concrete pathways for strengthening middle power influence: building independent development agencies, expanding technical expertise, leveraging South-South cooperation, and leading thematic coalitions on debt, climate, and fiscal justice.

For policymakers, development professionals, and those invested in reforming global cooperation, this paper offers a new analytical framework and roadmap to support a more pluralistic and effective development order.

The paper is authored by Dr. Nicole Goldin and Irfana Khatoon, and produced with support from Friedrich‑Ebert‑Stiftung (FES).