India to Chair the 3rd Global South Summit

India will host the third Voice of the Global South Summit on August 17, 2024. This virtual event will address major global issues such as conflicts, development challenges, and climate change. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the summit, which will involve discussions with representatives from various countries.

Purpose of the Summit

The summit offers a platform for nations in the Global South—including those from Latin America, Africa, and parts of Asia—to express their perspectives, challenges, and priorities. Its primary aim is to enhance communication and collaboration among developing countries. The inaugural summit was held in January 2023, followed by the second in November 2023, shortly after the G20 Summit. Both events saw participation from over 120 countries.

Themes of Previous Summits

• First Summit (January 2023): “Unity of Voice, Unity of Purpose”
• Second Summit (November 2023): “Together, for Everyone’s Growth, with Everyone’s Trust”

Both themes focused on working together and collective effort.

Key Issues Addressed

The main focus areas of the summits include:

• Climate change
• Sustainable development
• Global governance

Ministerial sessions covered various topics such as foreign affairs, education, finance, environment, energy, health, and trade.

Initiatives Announced

Several initiatives were announced to promote knowledge sharing and cooperation on important issues:

• Global South Centre of Excellence (‘Dakshin’)
• Global South Science and Technology Initiative
• Global South Scholarship Programme
• Cooperation in the health sector
• Global South Young Diplomats Forum

About the Global South Summit

Initiated in 2004 in Havana, Cuba, the Global South Summit aims to foster cooperation among developing nations. It encompasses a wide range of cultures and economies, with a focus on sustainable development, climate change, and social equality. The summit’s outcomes can shape UN policies and strengthen partnerships among member states, with rotating leadership to ensure inclusivity.