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| Global South |
Today the whole world is going through a big change. Earlier the world was divided into developed and developing countries, now this world 'Global South' is emerging as a new political, diplomatic power. Countries like India, China, Brazil, South Africa, Indonesia are no longer countries receiving aid, but are playing a decisive role in the policy and formation of the world. Today in 2025, the center of world politics has come on issues like multilateralism, competition for resources and climate change. The role of Global South is becoming important in all these items. And in the coming times, their image role will increase even more.
What is the Global South?
The Global South is the country that is the bottom part when the map of the whole world is divided in half. The term Global South is used for the countries of Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean. These countries suffered the brunt of colonial exploitation and economic inequality for a long time. Today these countries are trying to create their independent identity on the global stage. And some have succeeded in this till date. These countries are now demanding protection of their interests, shared development, and equal international system.
Changing role of Global South*
Rise of multipolar world order
Due to the Russia-Ukraine war, US-China tensions, and Iran-Israel conflict, the world is now entering a new Cold War-like era. Some people are even considering it as the beginning of the Third World War. Today the world is divided into two camps. First America Front and second China Front
But the Global South now neither wants to go to the US camp, nor to the China-Russia camp, but it wants to become the third and independent pole.
Leadership role of India and China
India has tried to become the voice of the Global South through means like successful G20 presidency, vaccine friendship, digital public infrastructure.
China is expanding economically through BRI (Belt and Road Initiative). This project is the world's largest project which is known as China's famous project in the world. Almost the whole world is connected to this project.
Both China and India have competition as well as cooperation in some areas.
BRICS+ was expanded by including countries like Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Ethiopia in BRICS during 2023-25. At the same time, the Global South has been recognized globally by giving permanent membership to the African Union in the G20.
What challenges does the Global South face?
Even after all this, there are many challenges in the countries of the Global South.
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The language and culture of all countries is different. Their political views are also different.
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There is also a difference in the development of all countries. Some countries like India, China, Brazil, Indonesia are far ahead. The rest of the countries are still struggling with poverty and illiteracy.
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The economy of some Global South countries is steeped in debt. They have taken excessive loans from the IMF, World Bank and even China. The debt of some countries is more than their GDP.
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The pollution of the Global North is affecting the southern countries the most.
Global South vs Global North: A Comparative View
The situation of the Global South is still not good as compared to the Global North. After making so much progress, only a few countries have been able to develop, but most of the 90% countries of the Global North have developed. But in the coming times, the Global South has become much stronger than before. The countries of the Global South are constantly challenging the Global North through organizations like the United Nations, G20, BRICS, SCO in international forums. But still the Global South needs to do more work than the Global North. Only then will it be able to show a new path to the world in the coming times.
Major challenges faced by the Global South
Despite its growing reputation in the Global South world, it is facing many internal and external challenges in its own country. These challenges are as follows.
1. Cultural and political diversity
Each country has a mother tongue, culture and political system. And every country has a different situation. This diversity of the countries of the Global South sometimes hinders unity and collective decision making. Due to which all countries are not able to take the same decision.
2.Uneven development
Development has taken place in only a few countries in the Global South countries. Countries like India, China and Brazil are global players. These countries have an influence on the whole world. Today these countries are counted among the top 10 countries of the world. But other countries of the Global South are still facing poverty, illiteracy and lack of infrastructure.
3.Debt crisis
The countries of the Global South have taken loans from some rich countries. The countries of the Global South have taken the highest expenditure from IMF, World Bank and China. Some countries have national debt that is more than their GDP. Which is very harmful for the economy of that country.
4.Climate Vulnerability
Although the Global South contributes less to global emissions, it faces the worst consequences – floods, droughts, rising sea levels and food insecurity.
5. Climate Justice: A Key Demand
The Global South has made climate justice a central theme in global negotiations. It demands:
A. Climate finance from developed countries
B. Technology transfer for renewable energy
C. Compensation for loss and damage
D. Inclusion in global climate policymaking
Future of the Global South
The Global South will have to take some important steps to further strengthen its role in the world. Regional cooperation will have to be increased through organizations like BRICS, AU, ASEAN, CELAC and IBSA. Investments will have to be made in education, healthcare, digital infrastructure. Dependence on economic aid from other countries will have to be reduced and focus will have to be made on self-reliance. A common approach will have to be created for development, human rights and environmental sustainability. By adopting all these rules and regulations, the countries of the Global South can progress and develop in the future.
Conclusion
In 2025, the Global South is no longer a passive recipient of aid but an emerging force in shaping the global political and economic order. Countries like India, China, Brazil, and South Africa are asserting their voices on the world stage through diplomatic initiatives, economic growth, and regional cooperation. However, the Global South still faces major challenges such as political diversity, unequal development, debt burdens, and vulnerability to climate change.
To realize its full potential, the Global South must focus on unity, regional collaboration, sustainable development, and reducing external dependencies. By strengthening internal capacities and speaking with a collective voice, these nations can play a decisive role in redefining global governance and promoting a more balanced, equitable, and inclusive world order.
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