Multilateralism can be defined as the extension of democracy to interstate relations. It takes root in the Enlightenment era but emerges onto the political arena with Wilson and Roosevelt promoting through the League of Nations a global contract between States. Since 1945, multilateralism is spreading thanks to multiplying interdependencies and the globalisation of democratic ideas. However, it faces a basic and standing challenge: the building up of equal, civilised relations between States. At the international level, there is not and there can not be a world state creating and keeping equality.

So, multilateralism can only constrain inequality by complex mechanisms. Besides, it is a western product in quest of universalisation which implies deep reshaping by those who want to be heard and recognised: non-western countries; non governmental organisations. Behind these practical obstacles, a multilateral dream is looming: permanent peace by trade, democracy and international organisations. The end of history! In the future, multilateralism will be no more than a useful tool helping to discipline States and probably unable to excise the heart of their power: the sovereign use of force.