Jaishankar Urges Stronger Global South Unity and Collective Push for UN Reform

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called for enhanced solidarity among Global South nations and a unified effort to reform the United Nations and other multilateral institutions, emphasizing their role in addressing escalating global risks.

Speaking at a High-Level Meeting of Like-Minded Global South countries on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly session, Jaishankar stressed that amid proliferating concerns—from climate change to geopolitical tensions—the developing world must leverage multilateralism for equitable solutions. "It is natural that the Global South turns to multilateralism for solutions," he stated in a post on X, underscoring the need for a collective voice to counterbalance traditional power structures.

Jaishankar outlined a five-point framework to amplify the Global South's influence in world affairs. First, he advocated utilizing existing platforms, such as the UN and G20, to foster deeper consultations and build collaborative networks among developing nations. This approach, he argued, would enhance solidarity and enable proactive engagement on shared priorities.

The minister's proposals reflect India's longstanding advocacy for a multipolar world order, where emerging economies drive agendas rather than merely react to decisions from the Global North. By strengthening these ties, the Global South can present a cohesive front on issues like trade barriers and debt sustainability.

Central to his remarks was a demand for comprehensive UN reforms, including expansion of the Security Council to include more representation from Africa, Asia, and Latin America—a long-standing Indian priority. Jaishankar highlighted the Global South's unique contributions, such as India's vaccine diplomacy during the COVID-19 pandemic, advancements in digital public infrastructure like UPI, and innovative agro-practices that could benefit food security worldwide.

He also called for tailored initiatives in climate action and justice, prioritizing the vulnerabilities of developing nations over imposed Global North frameworks. On emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, he warned against exclusionary models, urging inclusive dialogues to prevent a digital divide that could exacerbate inequalities.

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India's consistent championing of the Global South—evident in initiatives like the Voice of Global South Summit hosted virtually in 2023—positions it as a natural leader in this coalition. As the UNGA 80th session progresses, Jaishankar's vision could galvanize support for reforms, potentially reshaping global governance to reflect 21st-century realities.

With over 130 developing nations aligning under this banner, the push signals a shift toward a more democratic international order, where equity drives progress amid ongoing crises.

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