Narendra Modi says challenges faced by countries in Global South must be given priority in policy-making
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for an inclusive multipolar world order, seeking a place for Global South nations in world decision-making.
Addressing the summit of the BRICS leaders in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the Indian prime minister said: “Today the world needs a new multipolar and inclusive world order,” according to a transcript of his speech.
“This will have to start with comprehensive reforms in global institutions, and these reforms should not be merely symbolic, but their real impact should also be visible,” said Modi, addressing the BRICS session on peace, security, and reform of global governance.
“There must be changes in governance structures, voting rights, and leadership positions. The challenges faced by countries in the Global South must be given priority in policy-making,” Modi said.
Noting that the Global South has often faced double standards, Modi said: “It often received nothing more than token gestures on topics like climate finance, sustainable development, and technology access.”
“Two-thirds of humanity still lack proper representation in global institutions built in the 20th century,” he said.
“Many countries that play a key role in today's global economy are yet to be given a seat at the decision-making table.”
The expansion of BRICS and the inclusion of new partners, Modi said, “reflect its ability to evolve with the times.”
Modi also said India has “always considered it a duty to rise above personal interests and work towards the interest of humanity.”
The Indian prime minister also called for “determination to reform institutions like the UN Security Council, the WTO, and Multilateral Development Banks.”
“In the age of AI, where technology evolves every week, it's unacceptable for global institutions to go eighty years without reform,” he added.
