The Global South represents a collective of nations whose shared experiences, challenges, and aspirations have shaped modern international politics. Emerging primarily in the mid-20th century, the Global South refers to countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and parts of the Middle East that sought political independence, economic development, and strategic autonomy in a rapidly changing world.
The roots of the Global South can be traced back to the 1940s, when the Second World War weakened colonial powers and accelerated independence movements. Newly sovereign states entered the international system with high hopes but limited resources, often facing economic dependency, political instability, and exclusion from global decision-making. Despite formal independence, many nations continued to experience the effects of colonial structures and unequal power relations.
To address these challenges, developing countries began cooperating through diplomatic and political platforms. Initiatives such as the Bandung Conference of 1955 and the rise of the Non-Aligned Movement reflected a shared determination to resist domination by major power blocs and to pursue independent development paths. This cooperation laid the foundation for what would later be described as the Global South.
Today, the Global South includes emerging market economies and developing countries that together represent the majority of the world’s population and a growing share of global economic activity. While diverse in culture, political systems, and development models, these nations share common priorities: economic growth, poverty reduction, technological advancement, and fair participation in global governance.
Unity remains central to the Global South’s relevance. By standing together, its countries amplify their collective voice on issues such as development financing, climate change, trade equity, and institutional reform. The Global South increasingly advocates for an international system that reflects contemporary realities rather than historical hierarchies.
Looking ahead, the vision of the Global South is focused on contributing to peace, stability, and progress through cooperation and dialogue. Its goal is to support the emergence of an equal and orderly multipolar world—one where sovereignty is respected, development is inclusive, and global decision-making is more representative of humanity as a whole.
