The Global South in a Changing World Order
For a long time, global politics has been dominated by a handful of powerful countries—namely the US, France, China, Britain, and other European nations. These nations have consistently made decisions, set rules, and enforced them, while other countries were left with no choice but to comply. But now, the world is entering a new phase of change.
The developing nations of Asia, Africa, and Latin America—collectively referred to as the Global South—are beginning to rise. These countries no longer want to merely observe global politics from the sidelines; they want a seat at the table where decisions are made.
The term “Global South” does not refer to geography. It represents countries that are economically, politically, or militarily weaker than the dominant Western powers. For example, although Australia lies in the southern hemisphere, it is considered part of the Global North due to its economic strength. Conversely, India, despite being in Asia, is classified as part of the Global South because it continues to face development challenges.
Global South countries are often marked by poverty, economic dependency, and underdevelopment. However, many of them are now experiencing growth. Nations like India, China, Brazil, and South Africa have made significant progress in recent years. They have expanded their industrial output, increased exports, and become influential players in global markets. As a result, global economic power is no longer exclusively in the hands of the US and Europe.
Another factor contributing to this shift is dissatisfaction with Western-led politics. Countries in the Global South argue that powerful nations act in their own interest, interfering in the internal affairs of others, as seen in wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya. These powers also impose economic sanctions at will. In response, Global South nations are calling for a fairer, more inclusive world order—one where all voices are heard, not just those of the most powerful.
In recent years, countries of the Global South have formed new alliances to challenge Western dominance. The most notable of these is BRICS, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. BRICS aims to build a new economic system less reliant on the US dollar. The group has recently invited new members such as Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
This raises an important question: Is the global order truly changing?
The global order refers to the rules and agreements that govern international relations—such as who can possess nuclear weapons, who has veto power in the UN, and when sanctions should be applied. Many Global South nations argue that these rules are unfair. For instance, why does the US have veto power in the UN, but not countries like Brazil or India? Why does the IMF appear to prioritize wealthy nations over poorer ones? These questions have led Global South countries to seek the creation of a more balanced world system.
African countries, long perceived as weak and poor, are also asserting themselves. The African Union recently joined the G20—a major milestone that signals growing recognition of the continent’s voice in global affairs. In Asia, China is emerging as a dominant force—not only economically, but also diplomatically through its Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to deepen ties with countries across Asia, Africa, and even Europe. Brazil and Mexico are likewise pursuing more independent foreign policies, distancing themselves from US influence.
Despite these efforts, the Global South still faces internal challenges: corruption, political instability, religious conflicts, poverty, and weak healthcare and education systems. Many of these nations remain dependent on natural resource exports like oil and gas. Internal rivalries also exist—such as the border disputes between China and India or ongoing conflicts within parts of Africa.
So, can the Global South lead a new world order? No one can say for sure. Western nations still hold considerable political and economic power. However, what is certain is that the Global South can no longer accept the current unjust world system. These countries want to reclaim their rightful place on the global stage.
In my view, these nations must first address their internal issues. If they can remain united, foster cooperation, and focus on sustainable development, they may indeed be able to reshape the global order. They have the potential to usher in a world based on fairness, equality, justice, and cooperation—rather than domination and military might.
The world is changing. A few powerful nations can no longer dictate terms to the rest. The Global South—home to billions of people—is demanding a voice in decision-making. Their voices must be heard.
Now is the time to end injustice. If the world truly seeks peace and cooperation, it must recognize and respect the Global South and give it rightful space in global politics. If these voices continue to be ignored, competition and conflict between developing and developed nations will intensify.
The wiser path forward is to listen—to finally hear the voices that have long been silenced.
The views and opinions expressed in this article/paper are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of The Spine Times.
