'Global South must shape, not just follow, rules': PM Modi at Brics Summit

PM Modi at Brics Summit

NEW DELHI: Declaring the 18th Brics leaders' summit open, PM Narendra Modi stressed that UN Security Council (UNSC) reforms cannot be delayed any longer and that the "pyramid of privilege" reflected in the current global governance structure must be transformed into a "platform of partnership".Modi focused on economic integration of the Global South in his address at the session on inclusive governance and multilateralism, saying the bloc must work together to turn developing countries from rule-takers to rule-shapers."The Global South today stands in the front row of global crises, but in the back row of decision-making," the PM said, proposing that Brics draft 10 proposals for global governance reform.

Modi positions Brics as an inclusive, not anti-west, forum

These should be focused on representation, responsiveness and rulemaking, PM Modi said. He sought a system “where every country has a voice, every member has a stake and the development of humanity remains at the centre of all endeavours”.On representation, he said UNSC reform can no longer be delayed and text-based negotiations on this subject must be tied to a fixed timeline and clear outcomes. “Similarly, voting power, leadership positions and policy priorities within global financial institutions must reflect today’s economic realities.

Countries driving global economic growth deserve an appropriate role in shaping global economic governance,” he added.While western experts have often described Brics as an anti-West forum, Modi said the grouping operates not against anyone, but with an inclusive approach that brings everyone along. “Today, Brics is also in its coming-of-age moment. Over the past 20 years, Brics has established a distinct identity on the global stage.

We respect each other’s perspectives and move forward through consensus,” he said.The PM called upon the bloc to work on an ambitious new agenda, translating its unity and consensus into concrete results on the global stage. He proposed establishment of a Brics Continuity and Implementation Mechanism. “Brics presidency changes every year, but this should not disrupt our institutional momentum. Under this mechanism, all initiatives and outcomes can be followed up through the troika (past, current and incoming presidency),” said Modi.

Raising the issue of seafarers’ safety, Modi talked about how they make a massive contribution to global trade and yet lack adequate support in difficult times. He proposed creating a Seafarers Emergency Support Network to connect maritime authorities and missions of relevant nations. “This network would assist with distress alerts, medical aid, family notifications and evacuation efforts.”He said ensuring equal participation in setting the global rules of the future is critical. “AI, cyberspace, outer space, biotechnology and critical technologies are shaping not only future opportunities, but also future rules. We must work to transform the Global South from rule-takers to rule-shapers,” he said. “The message of this Brics summit must be clear: if our future is shared, the right to shape it must also be shared,” he said.