COGGS Interview

• Ayanangsha Maitra, COGGS

With India, Indonesia, Brazil, and South Africa each taking turns as Chair (Presidency) of the G20 over the consecutive four years, these Global South nations are spearheading a significant shift in the global economy, challenging traditional power structures, remarked Ambassador Anil Trigunayat, India’s former Envoy in an interview with COGGS on September 16. Amb  Trigunayat, who served in several Global South nations including Indian mission in Cote d’Ivoire, Bangladesh, Mongolia, Nigeria, Libya and Jordan highlighted this trend, noting that Global South nations are moving beyond passive roles to actively shape global economic policies.

Strategic Autonomy and Economic Growth

The idea of strategic autonomy is increasingly resonating within the Global South, reflecting a broader aspiration among Global South nations to assert their economic and strategic priorities.

“Developing countries are no longer content to be passive participants,” Amb. Trigunayat remarked. “They are advocating for a greater role in shaping global economic policies and are keen on ensuring that their voices are heard in the corridors of power.”

Nations are recognizing that their future economic growth will largely depend on their own development
efforts and international collaborations. China’s recent proposals, following the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, and the emergence of new currency mechanisms reflect this growing recognition and the desire for streamlined transactions and economic interactions.

Economic Growth and Strategic Partnerships

Economic growth remains a paramount goal for Global South countries, but achieving this requires forging effective partnerships. However, there is a concern that some major powers are seeking to align with the Global South not out of genuine commitment but to advance their own agendas, Amb Trigunayat remarked. This signifies the necessity of prioritizing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure that progress is equitable and meaningful.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict and the Global South

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has had a severe impact on the Global South, particularly in areas of food security, access to fertilizers, and fuel. The weaponization of financial institutions has disrupted essential supplies, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities. This crisis has further highlighted the need for the Global South to develop resilient and self-sufficient strategies.

BRICS and the Balance of Power

While BRICS—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—remains a vital player in the Global South, Amb Trigunayat stressed that it should not dominate the region’s agenda. “BRICS is a significant partner, but it is essential that it does not impose a hegemonic role on the Global South,” he stated. Ensuring that all voices within the Global South are respected and that no single bloc overshadows others is crucial for maintaining a balanced and inclusive dialogue.

Challenges of Contiguity and Integration

Despite a shared vision for economic progress, the Global South is not without its internal divisions. “There is unity in the Global South, but political maneuvering among certain countries can sometimes create friction,” Trigunayat observed.

The issue of contiguity has historically impeded effective regional integration within the Global South.
Amb Trigunayat pointed to the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) as an example where geographic and political differences have hindered progress. “The lack of contiguity and the political differences between neighboring countries can stymie efforts for regional integration,” he observed.  Overcoming these barriers and building more robust connections within the Global South is essential for achieving cohesive regional development.