Context:

The recent inauguration of the second Voice of Global South Summit by the Prime Minister marks a significant event.

Description of the Voice of Global South Summit (VoGS):

• The VoGS Summit, an initiative originating in India, serves as a shared platform for Global South countries to express their perspectives and priorities on various critical issues.

• Its objective is to address common challenges encountered by developing nations through dialogue.

• The summit is inspired by the Prime Minister’s vision encapsulated in the phrase ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas,’ aligning with India’s philosophy of

Initiation of the summit:

• The foundation of this distinctive initiative was laid in response to recent global developments that have significantly affected the developing world.

• These include events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating debt, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and challenges related to food and energy security, among others.

• Developing countries often find their concerns marginalized on the global stage, as existing platforms prove inadequate in addressing their challenges.

About Global South:

• The term Global South refers to countries in Asia, Africa, and South America, while the Global North encompasses countries like the US, Canada, Europe, Russia, Australia, and New Zealand.

• It is used to categorize countries based on economic development and historical factors.

• Characteristics of Global South nations include predominantly lower-income status, often with colonial histories.

• Not strictly limited to the Southern Hemisphere, many are located in the Northern Hemisphere.

• The term is used as a value-free alternative to “Third World,” and major countries like Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico are part of the Global South.

The Need for Classification:

This classification aids in describing economic and geopolitical differences, overcoming the limitations of East/West or First/Second/Third World classifications, recognizing the shared history of colonization, and acknowledging the emergence of economically powerful South countries.

Indian Context:

• India seeks to represent the underrepresented Global South in international forums and calls for reforms in multilateral institutions like the UNSC, UN, and IMF.
• Emerging economies like India and China aim to cooperate with other Global South countries and challenge the dominance of the Global North in international affairs.

Criticism of Classification:

Some critics find the term too broad and vague, questioning whether the elites of the Global South aim to challenge global capitalist structures. Concerns also arise about the neglect of Africa in the rise of Asia.

Significance of Global South:

• India aims to unite Global South nations to address common concerns, fostering potential for technical and idea exchanges and cooperation in various areas.

• Shared concerns such as energy security and sustainable development are highlighted.

Challenges for Consolidation:

• Debates revolve around climate reparations and the exclusion of India and China.

• The impact of the Russia-Ukraine War on Least Developed Countries is also a concern, as is China’s increasing influence in the Global South through initiatives like the Belt and Road.

Way Forward:

India needs active engagement in regional politics within the Global South and must recognize differentiation within the Global South in terms of wealth, needs, and capabilities.