Sarang Shidore discusses why countries in the Global South are dissatisfied with the international order. He also explores China strategy, the role of BRICS, and the tepid response from the Global South to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The podcast explores the emergence of newly independent states in the 1950s and highlights the diverse governance models within BRICS. It also examines the negative impact of performative actions and rhetorical judgments on international issues. Lastly, there is a discussion on competing with China and Russia, understanding the limits of US power, and the importance of the US leading and adapting to global problems.
The Global South seeks a more advantageous position in the international order and calls for a multipolar world order.
BRICS reflects the ambition of many countries in the Global South to improve their position within the global power structure by prioritizing national interests and power politics.
Deep dives
Defining the Global South
The Global South Program at the Quincy Institute, led by Sarang Shadoray, covers a wide geography from Latin America to Southeast Asia. The term 'Global South' originated during the decolonization era, referring to countries different from the West. These newly independent states were shaped by experiences of colonialism and demanded justice, fair global governance, and the abolishment of nuclear weapons. While economic shifts have occurred, with some countries becoming wealthy or middle-income, the Global South remains dissatisfied with its position in the international power structure. They seek to play a greater role in decision-making and negotiations, calling for a multipolar world order.
BRICS and Dissatisfaction with the Global Order
BRICS, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is an undeniable marker of many countries' dissatisfaction with the existing global order. The expansion of BRICS demonstrates their ambition to improve their place within the international system. However, their guiding principle is more realism than idealism, prioritizing national interests and power politics. While these countries reject the US-led sanctions on Russia, they still emphasize norms of sovereignty. This balancing act reflects their focus on improving their position within the global power structure.
Different Approaches of Russia and China
Russia and China, as part of the global East, engage in sharp rivalry with the United States. Their motivations are rooted in negating US power and influence. However, global South states are not in a hostile relationship with the US and prefer constrained competition between the US and China. The global South understands the risks and negative consequences of a new Cold War, which would hinder their rise and violate their sovereignty. Their focus is on building alternative institutions and pathways, as seen in BRICS, not to dominate the world but to have more agency in shaping the global order.
US Opportunity to Adapt and Cooperate
The growing attraction of BRICS indicates the waning dominance of the US. Instead of perceiving this as a threat, the US should view it as an opportunity. The US can relearn the practice of cooperation, letting go of distant burdens and exceptionalism that no longer serve its interests. By recognizing the limits of its power and adjusting its global ambitions, the US can compete effectively with Russia and China. The global South sends signals for the US to take safe and calibrated steps in this changing world, progressing towards a multipolar order that allows for greater participation and engagement.
Many countries in the Global South would like a more advantageous position in the international order. Sarang Shidore, director of Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft’s Global South Program, discusses why these countries are dissatisfied, what changes they would like to see, and how Washington can respond. He also discusses China strategy in light of the Global South and the role of BRICS and the seemingly tepid response from the Global South in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.