Daily Current Affairs : 11-July-2023
The term “Global South” has gained increasing prominence in recent times as it refers to a group of countries, primarily situated in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, that are often considered ‘developing’, ‘less developed’, or ‘underdeveloped’. In contrast, the “Global North” comprises mainly wealthy nations located in North America and Europe. This essay delves into the origin and evolution of the Global South, explores its geopolitical significance, and discusses its growing economic influence.
Origin and Evolution of the Global South
The term “Global South” is thought to have been coined by political activist Carl Oglesby in 1969. However, it gained substantial momentum only after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, which marked the end of the “Second World.” Prior to this, developing nations were commonly referred to as the “Third World,” a term introduced by Alfred Sauvy in 1952, drawing an analogy with France’s historical three estates. The “First World” denoted advanced capitalist nations, while the “Second World” referred to socialist countries led by the Soviet Union. The “Third World,” encompassing developing nations still under colonial influence, was in use until the rise of the Global South.
Geopolitical Significance
Unlike its name suggests, the Global South is not defined solely by geographical location; rather, it symbolizes a cluster of political, geopolitical, and economic similarities among nations. These countries were historically at the receiving end of imperialism and colonial rule, leading to their current status as struggling economies facing numerous challenges. Nevertheless, the dynamics are rapidly changing, and the Global South is witnessing remarkable growth and development.
Economic Shift and Influence
Economic indicators are shifting in favor of the Global South, and by 2030, it is projected that three out of the four largest economies in the world will hail from this region—China, India, and Indonesia. China and India, both Global South countries, have emerged as significant players in the global economic landscape, despite being located entirely in the Northern Hemisphere.
Moreover, the Global South-dominated BRICS nations, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, have shown considerable economic progress. Their combined GDP in terms of purchasing power already surpasses that of the Global North’s G-7 club. Notably, Beijing now hosts more billionaires than New York City, underscoring the changing distribution of global wealth.
Challenges and Aspirations
Although the Global South is witnessing encouraging economic growth, it still faces numerous challenges. Poverty, income inequality, and lower life expectancy persist in many of these nations. Additionally, political instability, corruption, and environmental issues remain pressing concerns. The Global South aspires to strengthen its position on the global stage, demanding a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.
Important Points:
- The Global South refers to countries primarily in Africa, Asia, and Latin America that are considered ‘developing’, ‘less developed’, or ‘underdeveloped’.
- The term gained prominence after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, marking the end of the “Second World.”
- Prior to the rise of the Global South, developing nations were commonly referred to as the “Third World.”
- Geographically, the Global South includes countries in the Southern Hemisphere, but its usage denotes political, geopolitical, and economic commonalities rather than just geographical location.
- Historically, these countries were often at the receiving end of imperialism and colonial rule, contributing to their current struggles with poverty, income inequality, and lower life expectancy.
- Economically, the Global South is witnessing a shift, with China, India, and Indonesia projected to become three of the four largest economies in the world by 2030.
- The Global South-dominated BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) already surpass the GDP in terms of purchasing power of the Global North’s G-7 club.
- Despite challenges, the Global South aspires to strengthen its position on the global stage and advocates for a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.
- The term “Global South” emerged as a significant concept to describe countries facing development challenges and seeking progress and representation on the global platform.
Why In News
The global divide over NATO’s actions in Ukraine has reignited discussions surrounding the concept of the “Global South,” shedding light on the differing stances of prominent nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America towards the conflict. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, understanding the complexities and perspectives of the Global South becomes increasingly crucial in addressing international issues with broader inclusivity and cooperation.
MCQs about Empowering the Global South
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What does the term “Global South” refer to?
A. Countries located in North America and Europe
B. Countries primarily in Africa, Asia, and Latin America
C. Developed nations with advanced capitalist economies
D. Countries in the Southern Hemisphere with high life expectancy
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When did the term “Global South” gain momentum?
A. After the end of the First World War
B. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991
C. In the early 1950s during the colonial era
D. During the rise of the Global North in the 19th century
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Which countries are projected to become three of the four largest economies in the world by 2030?
A. Japan, Germany, and France
B. China, India, and Brazil
C. United States, China, and Russia
D. China, India, and Indonesia
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What challenges does the Global South face despite its economic progress?
A. Political stability and environmental issues
B. High life expectancy and low income inequality
C. Poverty, income inequality, and political instability
D. Equitable distribution of resources and opportunities
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