The West's bullying approach to developing nations won't work anymore -- global power is shifting to Asia. This is the first in a four-part series of articles examining how the world will manage a shift in power and influence from west to east.

Whether it was at a recent foreign policy conference in Ottawa organized by the Canadian International Council, or at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, the consensus was remarkably similar: The world is in the midst of great change. The challenge is to figure out what combination of countries can deal with the big global issues as the United States is no longer the hyperpower, but no other country can fill its shoes to lead.

From 1000-1800 A.D., Asia, Africa and Latin America--today's developing world--accounted for 65 percent to 75 percent of global population and income. Europe rode to world dominance through the Industrial Revolution, innovations in transport and communication, and colonialism, during which the developing countries suffered dramatic relative losses. According to Jawaharlal Nehru University's Deepak Nayyar, from 1870 to 1950, Asia's per capita income plummeted from one-half to one-tenth of West European levels. Since decolonization, Asia has been bouncing back in economic output, industrialization and trade.

Absence of defined position after next month's meeting gives nod to G20 as the final word on global economy