What is Global South and its Affairs
The Global South is a term that broadly refers to the countries that have a relatively low level of economic and industrial development, and are typically located to the south of more industrialized countries. The term is not based on geography, but rather on socio-economic and political characteristics. The Global South includes most of the countries in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia (except Israel, Japan, and South Korea), and Oceania (except Australia and New Zealand).
The term Global South was introduced as a more open and value-free alternative to "Third World" and other potentially biased terms like developing countries. The term also implies a sense of solidarity and cooperation among the countries of the Global South, especially in the face of the dominance and influence of the Global North, which comprises the wealthy and developed countries in Northern America and Europe, as well as Israel, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.
The Global South is often defined in contrast to the Global North in terms of their differing levels of wealth, economic development, income inequality, democracy, and political and economic freedom. The countries of the Global South are generally poorer, more populous, less equal, and more dependent on primary sector exports than the countries of the Global North. They also share a common history of past colonialism and exploitation by the Global North.
However, the divide between the North and the South is not static or fixed. Some countries of the Global South have achieved significant economic growth and development in recent years, such as China, India, Brazil, and South Africa. These countries are often referred to as emerging or newly industrialized countries. They have also increased their cooperation and influence in global affairs through platforms such as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and G77 (a coalition of 134 developing countries at the United Nations).
The term Global South is not universally accepted or used by all countries or organizations. Some critics argue that it is too vague, simplistic, or homogenizing to capture the diversity and complexity of the world's regions and peoples. Others contend that it is still based on a Eurocentric or Western perspective that marginalizes or ignores other forms of knowledge and experience. Some also prefer to use other terms such as "Global Majority", "Global Periphery", or "Global Justice Movement" to emphasize different aspects or perspectives of the Global South.
How does Global South affect global politics?
The Global South affects global politics in various ways, such as:
1 Challenging the dominance and hegemony of the Global North in international institutions, norms, and values. The Global South seeks to have more representation, voice, and influence in global governance and decision-making, especially on issues that affect their interests and well-being, such as trade, development, climate change, human rights, and security. The Global South also advocates for a more democratic, equitable, and multipolar world order that respects the diversity and sovereignty of all nations.
2 Promoting cooperation and solidarity among the countries of the Global South in pursuit of their common goals and aspirations. The Global South has formed various platforms and mechanisms for dialogue, coordination, and collaboration, such as the Non-Aligned Movement, the Group of 77, the BRICS, the G20, and the African Union. These platforms enable the Global South to share experiences, exchange views, pool resources, and leverage their collective bargaining power in global affairs.
3 Contributing to the innovation and transformation of global politics through their diverse and dynamic cultures, histories, and perspectives. The Global South offers alternative visions and models of development, democracy, and security that challenge the conventional wisdom and practices of the Global North. The Global South also produces new forms of knowledge and creativity that enrich the global intellectual and cultural landscape.
What is the role of Global South in international trade?
The role of the Global South in international trade is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, the Global South is a major source of raw materials, agricultural products, and cheap labor for the Global North, as well as a large and growing market for its manufactured goods and services. The Global South also contributes to the innovation and diversification of global trade through its own production and consumption patterns, as well as its participation in regional and multilateral trade agreements.
On the other hand, the Global South faces many challenges and constraints in international trade, such as unfair trade rules, protectionist measures, dumping practices, tariff and non-tariff barriers, debt burdens, currency fluctuations, and environmental degradation. The Global South often lacks the capacity, resources, and influence to negotiate effectively and defend its interests in the global trading system, which is dominated by the Global North. The Global South also suffers from the adverse effects of trade liberalization, such as increased inequality, poverty, unemployment, social unrest, and human rights violations.
Therefore, the role of the Global South in international trade is both vital and vulnerable. The Global South needs to enhance its competitiveness, productivity, and resilience in the global market, while also ensuring that trade contributes to its sustainable development and social justice. The Global South also needs to strengthen its solidarity and cooperation among itself and with other stakeholders in the global community, such as civil society organizations, labor unions, academic institutions, and media outlets. The Global South should also advocate for a more democratic, inclusive, and equitable global trading system that respects its diversity and sovereignty.