21-August-2024-Editorial

VOICE OF THE GLOBAL SOUTH SUMMIT (VOGSS)

The Voice of the Global South Summit (VOGSS) is an initiative led by India aimed at bringing together countries from the Global South to discuss and address common challenges and opportunities.

This summit provides a platform for developing nations to share their perspectives on global issues and advocate for their needs.

The third edition of the summit was held virtually on August 17, 2024, with a focus on “An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future.”

About the VOGSS

Purpose and Vision:

• Initiative Origin: The VOGSS is a novel initiative spearheaded by India to unite Global South nations and discuss shared priorities.
• Philosophy: Reflects India’s principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (One Earth, One Family, One Future) and the Prime Minister’s vision of inclusive development.
• Need: The summit addresses gaps left by traditional platforms in addressing issues affecting developing countries, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukraine conflict, debt crises, and food and energy security.

Historical Context:

• 1st VOGSS: Held on January 12-13, 2023, in a virtual format.
• 2nd VOGSS: Held on November 17, 2023, also virtually.
• 3rd VOGSS: Hosted on August 17, 2024, with 123 participating countries, excluding China and Pakistan.

Key Outcomes of the 3rd VOGSS

Global Development Compact (GDC):

Proposal: Introduced by the Indian Prime Minister, the GDC comprises four key elements:

• Trade for Development: Enhancing trade relations to foster economic growth.
• Capacity Building: Supporting sustainable growth through capacity-building initiatives.
• Technology Sharing: Promoting the exchange of technological advancements.
• Project-Specific Finance: Providing concessional finance and grants for targeted projects.

Funding and Support:

• Trade Promotion: India announced a USD 2.5 million fund to promote trade activities among Global South countries.
• Capacity Building: A USD 1 million fund was dedicated to improving trade policy and negotiation skills.
• Healthcare: India pledged to provide affordable generic medicines, train drug regulators, and share expertise in natural farming with other developing nations.

Reforming Global Institutions:

• Inclusive Governance: Emphasis on reforming global institutions to address the concerns of the Global South and ensuring that developed countries meet their commitments.

Collaboration for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• Shared Vision: The summit focused on achieving SDGs and enhancing developmental progress beyond 2030.
• Key Areas: Addressing challenges such as development finance, health, climate change, technology, governance, and trade.

About the Global South

The term “Global South” was coined by Carl Oglesby in 1969 to describe countries affected by economic and political exploitation by the Global North.

Scope: Refers to regions in Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania, which are generally low-income and politically or culturally marginalized.

Brandt Line:

• Concept: A visual representation dividing the rich Global North from the poorer Global South, based on GDP per capita, proposed by Willy Brandt in the 1970s.

Challenges faced:

Geopolitical Competition:

• China’s Influence: India faces competition from China, which is expanding its influence in the Global South through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
• Food Security Issues: India’s restriction on rice exports in 2023 has been criticized for conflicting with its leadership role, especially in addressing global food challenges.

Pharmaceutical Sector:

• Reputation Issues: Recent controversies over contaminated medicines have raised concerns about India’s pharmaceutical exports, challenging its role as the “pharmacy of the world.”

Domestic Development:

• Internal Issues: India needs to address its own challenges, including unequal wealth distribution, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure, to enhance its credibility as a leader in the Global South.

Way Forward

Strengthening Partnerships:

• Alliances: India should focus on building strategic partnerships with Global South countries in technology, education, and healthcare to counterbalance China’s influence.

Balanced Development Model:

• Sustainability: Advocating for a development model that prioritizes sustainability and inclusivity, setting itself apart from China’s approach.

Export Policies and Domestic Challenges:

• Food Security: Balancing domestic food security with global responsibilities is crucial. Investing in agricultural technology can help meet both needs.
• Internal Development: Addressing domestic issues such as poverty and infrastructure will enhance India’s ability to lead by example.

Conclusion:

India’s role as the Voice of the Global South is pivotal in addressing the common concerns of developing nations while navigating the challenges posed by internal and external factors. By focusing on sustainable development, strategic partnerships, and addressing domestic issues, India aims to strengthen its leadership in the Global South.