How access to critical minerals will determine the new world order

In the 21st century, critical minerals and rare earth elements (CMs-REEs) have emerged as the new drivers of global power, shaping technology, national defense, energy transition, and space exploration. The US, China, Russia, and other nations are racing to secure these resources on Earth and the Moon, with initiatives like Pax Silica, Project Vault, and the Artemis programme enabling strategic control. China dominates production and processing, prompting the US and allies to diversify supply chains. India is strengthening its critical minerals infrastructure and semiconductor capabilities. Access to these resources is now central to the hierarchy of the emerging global order.