India and the Global South
India and the Global South
Why in News?
India has been actively engaging with the Global South through initiatives like:
Voice of Global South Summit (recent editions in 2023 and 2024).
Advocacy for the inclusion of the African Union in G20 during its presidency.
Proposal of a Global Development Compact to address debt challenges faced by developing nations.
What is the Global South?
Refers to countries primarily in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Oceania, often economically disadvantaged compared to the Global North.
Evolved as a post-Cold War alternative to terms like “Third World” or “Developing Countries.”
Represents shared experiences of colonialism, neo-imperialism, and economic marginalization.
Not strictly geographical; includes regions and peoples negatively impacted by globalization (e.g., “Souths in the North”).
The Brandt Line and Its Criteria
A visual representation dividing the world into:
Global North: Wealthier, industrialized nations (e.g., USA, Europe, Japan).
Global South: Economically poorer nations (e.g., India, Brazil, Sub-Saharan Africa).
Criteria:
Income levels (based on World Bank classifications).
Socio-economic indicators like life expectancy, literacy rates, and industrialization.
Challenges of the Global South
Economic Inequality:
High debt burdens and limited access to global financial resources.
Dependence on primary commodity exports.
Climate Vulnerability:
Disproportionate impact of climate change despite minimal historical emissions.
Geopolitical Marginalization:
Lack of representation in global governance institutions like the UN Security Council.
Technological Divide:
Limited access to advanced technologies and digital infrastructure.
Internal Diversity:
Varied economic and political systems make collective action challenging.
Significance of the Global South for India
Strategic Influence:
Enhances India’s leadership role in global governance and multilateral forums.
Economic Opportunities:
Expanding trade and investment with emerging markets in Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia.
Countering China’s Influence:
Strengthening ties with Global South nations to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
Cultural Diplomacy:
Shared colonial histories strengthen India’s soft power appeal.
Global Governance Reform:
Advocating for equitable representation in institutions like the UN, WTO, IMF.
India’s Position in the Global South
Historical Leadership:
Pioneer of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) during the Cold War.
Champion of anti-colonial and developmental solidarity at forums like Bandung Conference (1955).
Contemporary Initiatives:
Vaccine Maitri during COVID-19 showcased India’s role as a first responder.
Climate leadership through International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
Capacity-building programs under Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC).
Challenges for India
Competition with China:
China’s financial clout through initiatives like BRI overshadows India’s developmental assistance programs.
Resource Constraints:
Limited financial capacity to match large-scale investments from developed nations or China.
Balancing Diplomacy:
Maintaining relationships with both Global North (e.g., USA) and South while avoiding conflicts of interest.
Internal Challenges:
Addressing domestic socio-economic issues while projecting itself as a leader globally.
India’s leadership in the Global South is pivotal for creating a more equitable global order. By addressing shared challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and geopolitical marginalization, India can strengthen its position as a bridge between the Global North and South while advancing its strategic interests on the global stage.
