Speaking at the Yerevan Dialogue, Nada Al-Hajjri , President of the Yemen Information Centre, shared vital insights on the collaborative potential of the Global South in tackling pressing global challenges. She highlighted that challenges like climate change, counter-terrorism, artificial intelligence, and pandemics require collective efforts, as no single nation can address them effectively on its own.
Al-Hajjri called for a shift in how we view global relations, criticizing the simplistic divide between the Global South and Global North. Addressing at the dialogue, she argued that framing the reform of these institutions as a conflict between the West and the rest obscures the real issues—namely, the dysfunction of these institutions, which often fail to meet contemporary global needs. Instead of seeking mere representation, Al-Hajjri emphasized the importance of ensuring that these institutions remain relevant and effective.
“When we talk about reform of multilateral Institutions often times it’s the West pitted against the rest and it’s couldn’t be further away from the truth it is reform of multilateral Institutions is not about only countries around the world having representation. it’s about the massive dysfunction that is taking place in these institutions that are no longer being effective and the work that they’re doing,” she commented.
She commended India’s approach to advocating for reform, which focuses on constructive engagement with Western nations. “We need to advocate for reform while continuing to engage with Western countries,” Al-Hajjri asserted, highlighting that cooperation is essential for progress.
Al-Hajjri’s remarks serve as a powerful reminder of the Global South’s ability to unite in addressing common challenges.
The Significance of Global South Alliances
The formation of alliances within the Global South is increasingly seen as a significant statement of intent rather than merely a strategic maneuver. These emerging blocs reflect a collective desire for inclusion in major multilateral institutions and access to the economic prosperity that defines the global landscape. However, many countries in the Global South encounter significant barriers that hinder their integration into existing systems.
Recent discussions emphasize the appeal of these alternative blocs in amplifying the voices of historically marginalized countries. Nations are increasingly drawn to these alliances as a means of expanding their influence and asserting their agency on the global stage. While forming distinct blocs can complicate international relations—since it’s impractical to create a bloc for every issue—it nonetheless represents a necessary response to feelings of exclusion from mainstream institutions.
The BRICS formation serves as a key example. Opinions on its effectiveness vary, with some viewing it as a challenge to the Western-led world order, while others question its practical utility. Nevertheless, BRICS signals that the Global South’s voices are not being adequately heard, prompting a desire for better integration into the global system.
The increasing interest from various nations in joining BRICS underscores this sentiment. Each year, more countries express their desire to participate, highlighting an ongoing call for recognition within global governance frameworks. This trend illustrates that the Global South is not simply reacting to exclusion; it is actively asserting its position in the international arena.
