The Global South, a coalition of developing nations, gains influence with India as a key leader. Through multi-alignment, institutional reforms, and South-South cooperation, India promotes equitable, sustainable, and digital solutions, transforming the group into an active global shaper.
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Picture Courtesy: THEHINDU
The External Affairs Minister convened a High-Level Meeting of Like-Minded Global South Countries in New York on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly session.
The term Global South refers to countries, primarily in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, that are characterized by socioeconomic and political commonalities rather than geographical location.
It is used to describe nations that are developing, less developed, or underdeveloped, and face higher levels of poverty, inequality, and instability compared to the wealthier nations of the "Global North".
Not strictly geographical
Although most nations in the Global South are located in the Southern Hemisphere, the term is not purely based on location. For example, India and China are considered part of the Global South despite being in the Northern Hemisphere, while Australia and New Zealand are part of the Global North.
Historical context
Many Global South nations share a history of imperialism and colonial rule, which has shaped their place within the global political economy. This history contributes to shared perspectives on global power dynamics and a collective desire for a more equitable world order.
Economic factors
These countries often have lower incomes, high external debt, and limited access to capital and technology. Their economies may be heavily dependent on exporting raw materials to the Global North, a cycle of dependency.
Political influence
The Global South as a collective is increasingly claiming its political and economic influence on the global stage, challenging traditional power dynamics.
Vast diversity
The Global South is not a monolithic bloc but a heterogeneous group of countries with different histories, economies, and political systems. It includes emerging economic powers like India, China, and Brazil, as well as least-developed states.
Bridging Divides in Global Forums
Multilateral Reform Advocacy
Sustainability and Climate Leadership
Digital and Technological Innovation
Humanitarian and Development Assistance
Strategic Autonomy and Balanced Foreign Policy
Underrepresentation in Global Governance
Institutions like the UN Security Council, IMF, and World Bank are dominated by developed countries; limited influence and voice for the Global South.
Unfair Trade Rules
Issues such as high tariffs, the paralysis of the WTO's dispute settlement system, and environmental standards like the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) disadvantage economies in the Global South.
Weakening Multilateralism
Multilateral institutions, including the WHO and WTO, face legitimacy and effectiveness crises, undermining trust and collaboration on global issues.
Climate Injustice
Countries in the Global South bear the brunt of climate change impacts despite historically contributing the least to emissions. Promised climate finance from developed nations remains insufficient and delayed.
Weaponization of Interdependence
Global supply chains, finance, and technology are increasingly used as tools of geopolitical pressure, leading to disruptions and vulnerability for Global South nations.
Debt Crisis
Many Global South countries struggle with high external debt, exacerbated by economic shocks like the pandemic and inflation, diverting funds from essential development and public services.
Inequitable Access to Technology
A widening digital divide means that advanced technologies like AI, semiconductors, and green technology are concentrated in developed nations, limiting innovation and access for most Global South countries.
Normative Double Standards
The Global South criticizes developed nations for selective application of norms, such as human rights advocacy and intervention in internal matters.
Geopolitical Bloc Pressures
Growing US-China and US-Russia rivalries force Global South countries to choose sides, undermining their strategic autonomy and diverting focus from development priorities.
Institutionalize Platforms – Regular Voice of the Global South Summits.
Reform Global Institutions – Push for UNSC, IMF, and World Bank reforms.
Mobilize Development Finance – Create a Global South Development Fund.
Promote South-South Trade and Connectivity – Expand initiatives like Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC).
Coordinated Peace and Security Role – Greater Global South role in peacekeeping and mediation.
Multi-alignment Strategy – Constructive engagement with Global North while protecting Southern interests.
Geopolitical Competition – China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and influence in the Global South.
Credibility Concerns – Export bans, muted stance on conflicts, domestic interests perceived as opportunistic.
Structural & Domestic Constraints – Limited UN influence (no permanent UNSC seat), fiscal limits, domestic development priorities.
Bloc Politics – Regional and intra-South discord, differing priorities in SCO, BRICS, and G20.
A strong, united Global South requires credible leadership and equitable participation. Guided by Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (“One Earth, One Family, One Future”), India can amplify Southern priorities, enhance development cooperation, and transform the Global South from a passive voice into an active shaper of the global order.
Source: THEHINDU
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. The concept of 'Global South' has evolved from a geographical marker to a powerful geopolitical bloc. Critically analyze. 150 words |
The term emerged during the post-World War II decolonization era, gaining prominence in the 1960s with the formation of platforms like the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to describe newly independent nations.
It refers to the unsustainable and rising external debt burdens of many developing nations, which diverts funds from essential public services and development.
It is a framework for collaboration among developing countries in political, economic, social, and technical fields to address shared challenges without interference from developed nations.
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