The multilateralism as a practice of collective mechanism among states as well as set of principles like diffused reciprocity, indivisibility of state interests and collective and cooperative organizing norms underlying international institutions have come under strain in recent years. The multilateralism is faced with multiple internal and external challenges in the form of unilateralism, new nationalism, populism, protectionism etc. The states which were instrumental in supporting the norms of multilateralism in the post-War II period are now aligned against it. The unilateralism and protectionism of the Trump administration is the greatest challenge to multilateralism, followed about rising populist nationalism in European countries. The source of American threat is largely the new leadership, whereas the European nationalism has roots in masses. The other major actors like Russia and China are not inclined to follow multilateralism as a matter of first choice. The paper aims to focus on the nature of these challenges and the possible scenario for the future.

Keywords: Unilateralism; Bilateralism; Major Powers; Diffused Reciprocity; Individuality of interests.