Jeffrey Sachs Advocates for Cooperation Over Confrontation in Global Economy

During a discussion in Belgrade, Serbia, on December 16, 2025, U.S. economist Jeffrey Sachs articulated a vision for the global economy that prioritizes cooperation over competition. Sachs, who serves as the director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University, argued that the rise of China should be perceived as an opportunity rather than a threat. He emphasized that the global economy is not a zero-sum game, where one nation's gain is another's loss, but rather a system where shared prosperity can be achieved through regional cooperation.

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Sachs criticized traditional zero-sum thinking, which he attributed to social Darwinist ideas prevalent in the 19th and early 20th centuries. He stated, "The idea that life is inevitably a struggle, that it is 'either them or us,' is simply not true." He posited that modern economic well-being is derived from factors such as technology, skills, and effective governance, rather than competition over limited resources.

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Sachs highlighted China's development model as a case study for effective governance and economic planning. He noted that China's systematic planning over five- and ten-year horizons has enabled the country to become a global leader in various emerging fields. He argued that this success illustrates how long-term planning and sustained investment can foster economic growth without detriment to other nations. Sachs urged that China's development should not be viewed as a threat, countering narratives that frame China as an adversary.

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In a direct appeal to U.S. lawmakers, Sachs advised, "Get a passport, go see the world and look at how things really are." He underscored the importance of firsthand experience in shaping perceptions about global dynamics. Sachs envisions a future characterized by interconnected regions that achieve prosperity and security through collaboration rather than geopolitical rivalry.

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Sachs's remarks reflect a growing discourse among economists advocating for a shift in how nations perceive each other in the context of global economic relations. His emphasis on regional cooperation aligns with broader calls for sustainable development practices that prioritize mutual benefit over unilateral dominance.

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While Sachs's perspective promotes a cooperative approach, it may face skepticism from those who view China's rise as a challenge to U.S. hegemony. Critics may argue that such views underestimate the complexities of international relations and the competitive nature of global markets.

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• “The idea that life is inevitably a struggle, that it is 'either them or us,' is simply not true,” — Jeffrey Sachs, Economist

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• “My advice to the U.S. Congress is simple: Get a passport, go see the world and look at how things really are,” — Jeffrey Sachs, Economist

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In conclusion, Sachs's advocacy for a cooperative global economy presents a counter-narrative to prevailing competitive frameworks, suggesting that collaboration may yield more sustainable outcomes for all nations involved.

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