The Global South has often been a victim of “double standards” and nations that make major contributions to the world economy are deprived of a seat at the decision-making table, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday as he pressed for urgent reforms of the key bodies, including the UN Security Council.
In an address at the BRICS Summit, Modi said two-thirds of humanity has not received adequate representation in the global institutions formed in the 20th century. Without the Global South, these institutions seem like a mobile phone with a SIM card but no network, he said. The annual BRICS Summit began with a group photo of the leaders of the bloc’s member nations, followed by an address by Brazilian President Luiz Incio Lula da Silva.
In his remarks at the first plenary session, the prime minister rued the Global South has often received nothing but token gestures on issues like climate, finance, sustainable development and technology access. Modi said the world today needs a new multipolar and inclusive order and this has to begin with comprehensive reforms in global institutions.
“Reforms should not be merely symbolic, but their real impact should also be visible. There should be changes in governance structures, voting rights and leadership positions,” he said. The prime minister argued that the challenges of the countries of the Global South should be given priority in policy-making.
The expansion of Brics is proof of the fact that it is an organisation that has the capacity to change itself according to the times, he said. Modi said, “21st century software cannot be run by 20th century typewriters”. “India has always considered it its duty to rise above its interests and work in the interest of humanity,” he said. “We are fully committed to making constructive contributions on all subjects, along with the BRICS countries,” Modi added.
