What is the Global South?

The collapse of the Soviet-led bloc in 1991 and the rise of BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) in the late 2000s have sparked debates about the relevance of the Global South in the modern world.

However, recent events, such as the Ukraine conflict, have reaffirmed the significance of the Global South. These nations have shown a reluctance to sever economic ties with Russia or impose sanctions on Moscow, signaling their independent stance in global affairs.

The term 'Global South' originated during the Cold War, highlighting the economic disparities between industrialized northern nations and developing nations in the south.

It was coined by Carl Oglesby in 1969, who used it to describe the Vietnam War and the global social order shaped by centuries of exploitation by the Global North.

Being a Global South nation comes with a range of implications:

Poverty remains a persistent challenge, leading to increased migration in search of better opportunities. Additionally, Global South countries bear the brunt of environmental issues, such as waste and pollution, often caused by wealthier nations.

The Global South encompasses a vast geographical area, including Mexico, the Caribbean, South America, Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia.

While it represents over 85 percent of the world's population, it contributes close to 40 percent of global GDP.

Notably, countries like China and Turkiye, despite their significant economic progress, identify themselves as part of the Global South. This identification helps them differentiate from the Western legacy of colonialism and forge new political and economic connections based on solidarity.

In January 2023, India hosted the inaugural Voice of the Global South Summit, providing a platform for developing countries to address their shared concerns and priorities. With participation from representatives of 125 countries, this virtual forum became the largest digital conference of leaders and ministers from the developing world.

The Voice of the Global South Summit aims to create a bloc-independent grouping of Global South nations, reminiscent of the Non-Aligned Movement established in 1961. This initiative seeks to unite the Global South and foster a multipolar world order.

The rise of the BRICS bloc, with its four Global South members (Brazil, China, India, and South Africa), along with Russia, offers hope for addressing socio-economic imbalances between the Global North and the Global South. These nations are seeking alternatives to Western-dominated institutions and blocs, paving the way for the south's development and independence.

However, Western countries are not ready to relinquish their former colonial possessions without a fight. As alternative power centers gain prominence in the developing world, Western nations may resort to various means to maintain their influence.

Climate change poses a significant challenge for the Global South. These nations often bear the brunt of extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and agricultural disruptions. The impact of climate change exacerbates existing socio-economic inequalities and threatens the development progress made by Global South countries.

To address this issue, the Global South needs to collaborate and advocate for climate justice. By demanding fair and equitable solutions, these nations can ensure a sustainable future for themselves and the world.

Russia has been actively engaging with developing nations. It has established partnerships and economic ties that contribute to the growth and stability of these countries. Russia's involvement with the Global South, particularly through initiatives like BRICS, demonstrates its commitment to fostering a multipolar world order and challenging Western dominance.