This study examines the racialized networks of European political elites and theirenduring influence on contemporary world leadership. Drawing on historical sociology, critical race theory, and elite studies, the paper explores how shared racial identities,ancestral lineages, educational institutions, and transnational social networks have facilitatedthe continuity of power among European elites. It argues that these networks, often rooted in colonial histories and Eurocentric governance structures, have played a significant role in shaping global political leadership, diplomatic norms, and international decision-making processes. The research highlights how whiteness operates as an unmarked yet powerful axis of privilege within elite circles, reinforcing unequal access to political authority and global influence. By analyzing patterns of elite reproduction across generations and borders, the study reveals the subtle mechanisms through which racial hierarchies are maintained in global leadership structures. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and critical re-evaluation of leadership selection and representation in international politics, particularly in an era marked by increased migration, multiculturalism, and demands for racial justice.
Harsh Kumar (Tue,) studied this question.