PrintFriendlyThe concept of the ‘Global South’ has recently gained prominence as a symbol of unity among postcolonial and developing nations, advocating for a more equitable global order. Traditionally referring to countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean, it now represents a collective call for greater influence in global governance. For example, the BRICS Outreach meeting in Kazan in October 2024 was held under the theme ‘BRICS and the Global South: Building a Better World Together.’[1] Similarly, the ‘Voice of the Global South Summit’ convened under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasized the need for the Global South to play a central role in shaping the evolving global governance framework.[2]
However, the Global South is far from a monolithic entity, encompassing a diverse range of countries with varying approaches, visions, and levels of economic development. These differences stem from distinct historical trajectories, economic structures, political priorities, and cultural contexts, which influence how each nation engages with global governance and addresses shared challenges.[3] Despite these variations, countries of the Global South often collaborate on issues such as climate change, trade, and development financing, seeking to amplify their collective voice on the global stage. As the Global South continues to evolve, there is considerable speculation about its future form—whether it will solidify into a more unified bloc capable of exerting greater influence or remain a loosely connected coalition shaped by shared but diverse interests.
Historical Context
The term “Global South” refers to nations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, many of which experienced colonial exploitation and marginalization during the 19th and 20th centuries. Following decolonization, these countries sought to reclaim their political and economic agency through movements like the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the Group of 77 (G77. The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), established in 1961, provided newly decolonized nations with a platform to assert their sovereignty and resist alignment with Cold War superpowers, focusing on self-determination and peaceful coexistence.[4] The Group of 77 (G77), formed in 1964 within the United Nations, united developing countries to advocate for equitable economic policies and a restructured global economic order to address the legacies of colonial exploitation.[5] These efforts laid the foundation for South-South cooperation and a collective push for a more just global order.
Despite efforts to assert their influence, the Global South has faced persistent structural inequalities in the global system, highlighted by the dominance of Bretton Woods institutions and unfair trade practices. During colonial times, these regions were exploited as sources of raw materials and cheap labour for the Global North. After decolonization, this imbalance continued, reinforced by unequal trade terms and the control of financial institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. In the 1970s, the Global South called for a New International Economic Order (NIEO) to create fairer economic systems.[6] While the NIEO did not achieve its goals, it reflected a growing recognition among these nations of their ability to work together and push for a more just global order.
Global South’s Resurgence
The resurgence of the Global South as a cohesive and influential force in global affairs is underpinned by several interrelated factors, reflecting both structural changes in the international system and the agency of developing nations. The rapid economic growth of countries like China, India, Brazil, and South Africa has significantly altered global economic dynamics. These nations have demonstrated resilience and innovation, with rising GDPs and expanding global influence, challenging the long-standing dominance of Western powers.[7] The BRICS grouping exemplifies this shift, providing an alternative framework for global economic governance. Through institutions like the New Development Bank (NDB) and BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA), BRICS countries are reshaping financial systems to better serve the interests of emerging economies.
The Global South accounts for the majority of the world’s population, with many nations experiencing a demographic dividend—a young and growing population that drives innovation, labor force expansion, and consumer demand.[8] Today, the Global South contributes approximately 40 percent of global trade, half of the world’s manufacturing output, and a substantial portion of high-tech products. The rapid urbanization and rising middle class in these nations are also creating new markets for goods and services, further solidifying their influence in the global economy.
This resurgence is also rooted in the changing dynamics of global power. The global geopolitical landscape is undergoing significant transformation, marked by the relative decline of Western hegemony. This has created a more favourable environment for the Global South to assert its agency. For instance, Global South embraced multilateralism as a means to address shared global challenges such as climate change, food security, energy transition, and public health. A key victory for the Global South was the establishment of the loss and damage fund at COP27, marking a significant milestone in climate justice.Platforms like the India-led International Solar Alliance (ISA) aim to promote renewable energy adoption in sun-rich countries, while the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) seeks to create the world’s largest free trade area, boosting intra-African trade and economic integration.
The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the Global South’s rising influence. While inequities in vaccine distribution underscored systemic disparities, the pandemic also demonstrated the potential of South-South cooperation in addressing health crises. Countries like India and Cuba played vital roles in providing affordable vaccines and medical expertise.[9]
Challenges
The Global South is far from a unified bloc, with significant political differences often shaping its response to regional and global developments. The Ukraine conflict has exposed these divisions, highlighting varying priorities, alliances, and approaches to international crises.[10] Similarly, internal divisions and regional rivalries often complicate collective action within the group.[11] The disparity between emerging powers like China and India and smaller, less developed nations underscores the unevenness within this grouping.
Furthermore, the Global South has struggled to reform multilateral institutions, which remain dominated by developed nations. Key bodies like the UN Security Council, IMF, and World Bank continue to marginalize Global South voices, hindering their influence in global decision-making.
What Ahead?
Despite challenges, the Global South’s influence in shaping a new world order is undeniable. Its demographic strength, economic rise, political advocacy, and multilateral engagement have positioned it as a key player in global governance. As the world becomes more multipolar, the Global South has the potential to challenge traditional powers and promote a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable global system.
The future of the Global South will depend on continued cooperation and reform of global institutions. By overcoming internal divisions, it can create a world order that is more representative and responsive to the needs of all nations, particularly those long marginalized. The Voice of the Global South Summit has played a crucial role in solidifying India’s position as a key advocate for the Global South’s interests, reinforcing its leadership in reshaping global geopolitics and promoting a more inclusive, equitable global order.
[1] ‘Kazan Declaration’, 16th BRICS Summit, Kazan, Russia, https://cdn.brics-russia 2024.ru/upload/docs/Kazan_Declaration_FINAL.pdf?1729693488349783
[2] https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-remarks-at-opening-session-of-voice-of-global-south-summit-2023/
[3] Laura Trajbe rWaisbich, Supriya Roychoudhury& Sebastian Haug, ‘Beyond the single story: ‘Global South’ polyphonies’, Third World Quarterly, 42, 9, 2021,pp. 2086-2095.
[4] ‘Declaration on the purposes and principles and the role of the non-aligned movement in the present international juncture’, https://www.mea.gov.in/Images/pdf/Declarationpurposesnam.pdf
[5] Dena Freeman, “The Role of the Global South at the UN: Using International Politics to Re-Vision the Global.” The Global South, 2017, pp.71-91.
[6] Nils Gilman, ‘The New International Economic Order’, Humanity, https://humanityjournal.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/HUM-6.1-final-text-GILMAN.pdf
[7]Guiyin Zhou, ‘Rise of Global South and changes in contemporary international order’ China International Strategy Review, 6, 2024, pp.58–77.
[8] Zhuang Han, Claude Mbarga, Michel Tenikue and Sarah Giroux, Demographic Dividends across the Global South: A Comparison of Africa, Asia, and Latin America (1970–2020), https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/1126427
[9]https://www.mea.gov.in/lok-sabha.htm dtl/36996/QUESTION_NO3857_VACCINE_MAITRI
[10] Raj Verma, ‘The Russia-Ukraine war and the Global South’s sovereignty paradox’ Contemporary Security Policy, 2024, 45, 4, pp.555–569.
[11]Manjari Chatterjee Miller, ‘China and India Compete for Leadership of the Global South’, https://www.cfr.org/blog/china-and-india-compete-leadership-global-south
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