‘Global institutions without the Global South are like a SIM card without a network’, PM Modi’s blunt words at BRICS

PM Modi addressing the BRICS summit. Photo- AFP

PM Modi said at the BRICS summit that two-thirds of the world’s population has not yet been properly represented in the global institutions formed in the 20th century. Countries that are making significant contributions to today’s global economy have not been given a place at the decision-making table.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 17th BRICS summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. During this, he emphasized the need for comprehensive reform in the international governance structure. He said that it has now become necessary to increase the participation of the Global South in the decisions of the 21st century.

PM Modi said that two-thirds of the world’s population has not yet been properly represented in the global institutions formed in the 20th century. Countries that are making significant contributions to today’s global economy have not been given a place at the decision-making table.

He not only called it a question of representation, but also linked it to the credibility and effectiveness of these institutions. Explaining his point with a simple example, PM Modi said that without the Global South, these institutions are like a mobile phone that has a SIM card but no network

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the continued marginalisation of the Global South and said that whether it is a matter of development, distribution of resources or security-related issues, the interests of the Global South have not been given priority. He said that the Global South has received nothing but nominal support on issues like climate finance, sustainable development and access to technology.