Addressing Development Inequality and Climate Challenges
The world today grapples with significant challenges like development inequality and climate change, demanding urgent global cooperation. Despite economic growth, over 8% of the global population lives in extreme poverty, mainly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Moderate poverty affects 44% of people worldwide, a figure that has remained largely unchanged since 1990, according to the World Bank.
Historical factors such as colonialism and unfair global trade policies have perpetuated these inequalities, often leaving developing nations behind in the global economy. Climate change exacerbates these issues, with countries in the Global South bearing the brunt despite contributing the least to global emissions. Rising sea levels, extreme weather, and droughts threaten lives and livelihoods, yet international responses often fall short in providing necessary support.
Rising Influence of the Global South
In response, countries in the Global South are increasingly asserting their voices to shape a more equitable international order. Led by the Chinese mainland, Brazil, and others, these nations advocate for reforms in global governance to better reflect their interests.
The BRICS group exemplifies this shift. Since its inception in 2009, BRICS has sought to balance the dominance of Western powers in institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. Focusing on economic development, poverty reduction, and infrastructure investment, BRICS aims to foster a more inclusive global economy.
The Chinese mainland's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is another key effort supporting the Global South. The BRI facilitates large-scale infrastructure investments across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, including roads, railways, and ports. These projects enhance trade and connectivity among developing nations, reducing dependence on Western financial institutions.
In Latin America, the Chinese mainland has strengthened partnerships with countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Venezuela, emphasizing energy, agriculture, and technology. Initiatives such as the China-CELAC Forum promote regional integration and cooperation, bolstering ties between the Chinese mainland and the Global South.
The G20: Amplifying the Global South's Voice
The G20, established in 1999, has become a crucial platform for the Global South to voice their concerns. Comprising both developed and developing countries, including the Chinese mainland, Argentina, Brazil, and South Africa, the G20 addresses issues like climate change, economic inequality, and global health crises.
The 2008 global financial crisis was a turning point for the G20, as emerging economies used the forum to demand greater representation in global financial institutions. This shift expanded the G20's role to include sustainable development and climate action.
Recent G20 summits have seen developing countries push for more inclusive policies. The Chinese mainland and Brazil, for instance, have called for increased financial support for climate adaptation, fairer global trade practices, and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines.
Reference(s):
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