India is set to host the third edition of the Voice of Global South Summit (VOGSS) today, continuing its efforts to foster unity and collaboration among developing nations.
The event, which embodies India’s ancient philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family), is also a testament to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas’ (Together with All, Development for All, the Trust of All, and the Efforts of All).
The summit is designed to provide a platform for countries in the Global South to share their perspectives, discuss common challenges, and propose solutions that can lead to a sustainable and inclusive future.
A Platform for Addressing Global Challenges
The third VOGSS, with its overarching theme “An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future,” aims to build on the discussions from the previous summits, focusing on the myriad challenges that disproportionately affect developing nations.
These include ongoing conflicts, food and energy security crises, and the ever-pressing issue of climate change. These challenges are particularly acute in the Global South, where limited resources and economic vulnerabilities often exacerbate their impact.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has emphasized that this summit is not just a continuation but an expansion of the previous dialogues.
It seeks to bring together countries from the Global South to deliberate on their shared priorities and challenges, particularly in the developmental domain.
The goal is to forge a collective approach that can drive sustainable development, ensuring that the voices of developing nations are heard on the global stage.
Structure and Sessions of the Summit
The 3rd VOGSS will be held in a virtual format, structured into two main components: the Leaders’ Session and the Ministerial Sessions. The Leaders’ Session, which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi, shares the same theme as the overall summit—”An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future.”
This session will bring together Heads of State and Government to discuss high-level strategies for achieving the summit’s goals.
In addition to the Leaders’ Session, there will be 10 Ministerial Sessions, each focusing on specific areas crucial to the development and well-being of the Global South. These sessions include:
- Foreign Ministers Session: “Charting a Unique Paradigm for Global South” will explore diplomatic strategies and collaborations unique to the Global South.
- Health Ministers Session: “One World One Health” will address global health challenges, emphasizing a unified approach to healthcare.
- Youth Ministers Session: “Youth Engagement for a Better Future” will focus on harnessing the potential of the youth in driving development.
- Commerce/Trade Ministers Session: “Trade for Development – Perspectives from Global South” will discuss trade policies that can spur economic growth.
- Information & Technology Ministers Session: “DPIs for Development – A Global South Approach” will examine how digital public infrastructure can be leveraged for development.
- Finance Ministers Session: “People-Centric Approach to Global Finance” will explore financial strategies that prioritize the needs of the people in the Global South.
- 2nd Foreign Ministers Session: “Global South and Global Governance” will revisit diplomatic discussions with a focus on governance.
- Energy Ministers Session: “Sustainable Energy Solutions for a Sustainable Future” will discuss renewable energy and sustainability.
- Education Ministers Session: “Prioritizing Human Resource Development – A Global South Perspective” will focus on educational reforms and capacity building.
- Environment Ministers Session: “Pathways for Progress – A Global South Perspective on Mitigating Climate Change” will address environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation.
India first hosted the Voice of Global South Summit on January 12-13, 2023, followed by the second summit on November 17, 2023. Both editions were held virtually and saw the participation of over 100 countries from the Global South.
The insights and feedback gathered from these summits were instrumental in shaping the agenda and discussions at the G-20 Summit under India’s presidency last year. Notably, the G-20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration reflected the priorities and concerns of the Global South, demonstrating the influence and impact of the VOGSS.
As India hosts the third edition of this summit, it continues to champion the cause of developing nations, ensuring that their voices are amplified in global forums.
The VOGSS has emerged as a crucial platform for these countries to engage in meaningful dialogue, collaborate on shared challenges, and collectively pursue a more sustainable and inclusive future.
The 3rd Voice of Global South Summit is not just a diplomatic event but a significant step toward creating a more balanced and equitable world order. By bringing together the nations of the Global South, India is reinforcing its commitment to global cooperation, sustainable development, and the philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.’
As the summit unfolds, it promises to be a vital forum for shaping the future of global governance, particularly from the perspective of developing nations.