Erik Solheim, former Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Co-Chair of the Europe-Asia Center, highlighted the significant role of the Global South in promoting a more peaceful and equitable world
amid historical Western dominance. He made the comment, while delivered a significant address at
the Global South Think Tank Forum in Beijing, organized by Chinese broadcaster CGTN.
Solheim began by reflecting on the last two centuries, a period dominated by Western powers, particularly European colonial forces and the United States, which wielded considerable influence over global affairs. While acknowledging the advancements in science and industry during this era, he emphasized the accompanying social injustices, including racism and colonial oppression.
Solheim is a diplomat and former Politician, served in the Norwegian government from 2005 to 2012 as Minister of International Development and Minister of the Environment. He was Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme from 2016 to 2018.
The central theme of Solheim’s remarks was the emergence of the Global South, particularly nations like China and India, which he characterized as key players in this transformative phase.
He described this rise as a “positive development” that promises a fairer and more sustainable world,
contrasting the Global South’s focus on sustainability and inclusive prosperity with the historical practices of Western powers. In concluding his remarks, Solheim expressed optimism for the 21st century, envisioning it as a time of increased peace and prosperity. He pointed to regions in Asia where large populations coexist without conflict as models of this promise.
Solheim highlighted the peaceful nature of major Global South countries, a few key points:
China has not engaged in military conflict for the past 45 years.
India has only been involved in conflict with neighboring Pakistan since its independence.
Other Global South nations, such as Indonesia, Brazil, South Africa, and Nigeria, have refrained from military aggression against other countries.
This emphasis on non-aggression suggests that the Global South is poised to play a commendable role in promoting global peace, which Solheim identifies as a crucial asset in the evolving geo-politics. Solheim proposed the creation of a multipolar world where diverse nations coexist and collaborate. He articulated a vision in which:
The United States, China, India, and Europe all play significant roles in global governance.
It is essential to acknowledge the unique political systems of each nation; he asserted that the U.S. will not adopt the Chinese political model, nor will China adopt the American one.
Principles of Respect and Dialogue
To facilitate cooperation in this new multipolar context, Solheim emphasized two foundational principles:
Respect: Mutual respect among nations is essential for fostering collaboration on prosperity, environmental sustainability, and peace.
Dialogue: Open communication is crucial for addressing differences, particularly regarding contentious issues such as conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as economic and environmental policies. The former Under Secretary argued that constructive dialogue can lead to resolutions and understanding, positioning these principles as necessary for a stable global order.
