Narrative alliances: the discursive foundations of international order

Abstract Alliances are generally understood as groupings of states that combine to aggregate their physical capabilities against security threats. In this article we suggest transposing this well-established terminology of inter-state allegiance to the dimension of narrative. Focusing on the example of the ‘rules-based order’ (RBO), we provide a new conceptual entry point for understanding the complex relationship between order and discourse at the international level. Specifically, we examine how countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, India and Japan—with varying degrees of consistency and coherence—go beyond merely proclaiming the existence of an established international system of cooperation, commitments and norms. They collectively tell a political story of the rules-based order—including its age, nature, purpose and sources of vulnerability—that rests on declaring some codes of conduct acceptable and appropriate while denouncing others as deviant. We argue that rallying behind a shared vision of international organization demarcates the boundaries of international legitimacy and establishes imperatives to act in defence of particular visions of international organization.