Modi Pushes for Greater Global South Role in World Governance

New Delhi, September 13, 2026 Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a stronger voice for the Global South in global decision-making, stressing the need for a more inclusive and equitable system of international governance. He made the remarks while chairing the BRICS session on “Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism” on September 12 during the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. Pointing to the imbalance between the Global South’s exposure to international crises and its influence over major decisions, PM Modi said the region is “at the front row of global crises, but the back row of decision-making”. He urged countries to replace the existing “pyramid of privilege” with a “platform of partnership” and called for greater representation of developing nations, particularly in institutions such as the United Nations Security Council. The Prime Minister also advocated moving the Global South from being a “rule-taker” to a “rule-shaper”. He said BRICS could support this transition by providing young diplomats and policymakers with negotiation skills, practical training and legal expertise. Highlighting the role of seafarers in international trade, he proposed a Seafarers Emergency Support Network to strengthen assistance for them during crises. Concluding his remarks, PM Modi said that since the future of nations is shared, the right to shape that future must also be shared. He called for a shift “from voice to impact, from privilege to partnership”. The session ended with the adoption of the New Delhi BRICS Leaders’ Declaration, outlining common priorities and the future direction of BRICS cooperation. The 18th BRICS Summit, hosted by India in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, is being held under India’s chairship theme, “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, reflecting the bloc’s focus on strengthening multilateralism and giving developing nations a greater role in shaping global affairs.