Overview of the 2nd Voice of Global South Summit 2023
The 2nd Voice of Global South Summit, held on November 17th, echoed the resounding success of its predecessor earlier in January 2023, bringing together leaders from various nations in a collective pursuit of addressing global challenges. The summit, spearheaded by the unwavering leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, unfolded with a structured agenda and highlighted key initiatives and shared priorities among the participating nations.
The summit adopted the overarching theme, "Together, For Everyone's Growth, With Everyone's Trust," mirroring India's profound philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family). This theme seamlessly aligned with Prime Minister Modi's vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas,' emphasizing collective growth and trust-building among the nations of the Global South.
Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the Global South Center of Excellence, aptly named 'DAKSHIN,' focusing on Development and Knowledge Sharing. DAKSHIN is envisioned as a think tank and repository that will foster collaboration among Global South nations, serving as a hub for sharing insights and advancing collective knowledge.
Building on the momentum of past decisions, the summit saw the implementation of several key initiatives. Notable among them are the Aarogya Maitri Initiative, fostering health cooperation; the Global South Science and Technology Initiative, advancing collaboration in science and technology; the Global South Scholarship Program, expanded to enhance development cooperation; and the Global South Young Diplomats Forum, gaining momentum as a platform for diplomatic engagement.
The Ministerial Sessions, each with a specific thematic focus, provided a nuanced approach to addressing diverse challenges. Education Ministers aimed at making human resources future-ready, Finance Ministers focused on financing people-centric development, Environment Ministers sought sustainable solutions for climate resilience and finance, and Foreign Ministers addressed broader global issues affecting the Global South.
Energy Ministers highlighted the need for an affordable and inclusive energy transition, Health Ministers aimed at cooperation and solutions for One Health, and Commerce Ministers deliberated on resilient supply chains for the Global South.
The summit identified ten shared priorities encapsulating the vision for the future:
1. 'One Future': Shaping the future through cooperation and reducing East-West dichotomy.
2. Sustainable Development: A commitment to sustainable development, particularly in climate action.
3. Energy Transition: Advocating for an inclusive, affordable, and sustainable energy transition.
4. People-Centric Development Finance: Ensuring development initiatives avoid causing a debt trap.
5. Digital Public Infrastructure: Embracing digital platforms for efficient governance.
6. Multilateralism Reform: Urgent reform of global institutions, including financial ones.
7. Women-Led Development: A strong emphasis on prioritizing women's role in development.
8. Investment Flows: Prioritizing investment flows among Global South countries.
9. Countering Terrorism: Strengthening cooperation against terrorism.
10. Timely and expeditious completion SDG 2030 Agenda
The 2nd Voice of Global South Summit 2023 showcased India's commitment to the Global South's development. With tangible initiatives, shared priorities, and a collaborative vision for a sustainable and inclusive future, the summit laid the groundwork for a renewed era of cooperation among the nations of the Global South. The sentiments in the room indicated a shared ownership of the G20’s success as a collective achievement of the Global South, setting the stage for future collaborations and advancements. Emphasizing the timely completion of Sustainable Development Goals.
