Story perspectives

Expert Warns: Nation-State System on Brink of Collapse

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rana Dasgupta, writer, warns of a potential collapse of the nation-state system that underpins citizenship, law, economy, and healthcare.
States are increasingly failing to uphold the constitution and the rule of law.
Dasgupta argues that the post-1945 era was exceptional, with a divergence between state interests and those of citizens.
The remarks coincide with U.S. President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

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Story summary

Rana Dasgupta, writer, warns of a potential collapse of the nation-state system that underpins citizenship, law, economy, and healthcare.
States are increasingly failing to uphold the constitution and the rule of law.
Dasgupta argues that the post-1945 era was exceptional, with a divergence between state interests and those of citizens.
The remarks coincide with U.S. President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, underscoring the urgency of the situation.