Unveiling the Global Governance Initiative
At the 'Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Plus' summit in Tianjin, President Xi Jinping unveiled the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), a new blueprint for a more just and effective international order. The framework emphasizes sovereign equality, respect for international law, genuine multilateralism and people-centered cooperation.
Reforming Global Governance
Professor Liu Baocheng of the University of International Business and Economics calls GGI a timely response to global confusion and turbulence. He says it pushes back against unilateralism and prioritizes policies that serve people’s real needs.
For Paul Frimpong, Executive Director of the Africa-China Center for Policy and Advisory, GGI 'resonates strongly with Africa.' He notes that the initiative shifts the focus from geopolitics to development, equity and inclusivity in global decision-making.
Rethinking Multilateral Institutions
Speakers warned of an emerging 'polycrisis'—from climate change to health security and geopolitical fragmentation—that erodes trust in institutions like the WTO, IMF and UN.
Frimpong highlights Africa’s representation gap: 'Home to 1.5 billion people and 54 countries, Africa has no permanent seat on the UN Security Council. If you are not on the table, then you are the meal.' He argues that reforming representation and financing is critical to keep these institutions relevant.
A New Role for the Global South
GGI positions the Global South as an active partner rather than a passive recipient. 'China is saying that Africa is a partner, not a peripheral player, in shaping global governance,' Frimpong explains, linking the initiative to Agenda 2063’s goals of climate justice and technological inclusion.
Professor Liu adds that any new global order must be built on transparency, equitable initiatives and accountable leadership—grounded in the real needs of people instead of 'political fantasies.'
As GGI gains momentum, it promises a shift toward a people-centered world order with the Global South at its core.
Reference(s):
Global Governance Initiative: a new era for the Global South
cgtn.com
