Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlights the marginalization of the Global South at the BRICS Summit 2025

New Delhi (India) July 7: In his speech at the 17th Brics Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the need to properly represent the Global South in 21st-century decision-making and argued for extensive reforms in global governance systems.

Modi said, "Two-thirds of humanity has not been adequately represented in the global institutions formed in the 20th century. Countries that have a major contribution to today's global economy have not been given a place at the decision-making table. This is not just a question of representation but also a question of credibility and effectiveness. Without the Global South, these institutions seem like a mobile with a SIM card but no network" in his speech.

The Prime Minister further emphasised the Global South's continued discrimination and claimed that it is still a "victim of double standards" in international relations. He pointed out the unfairness of the international systems that monitor security and development.

He added, "The Global South has often been a victim of double standards. Whether it is about development, distribution of resources, or security-related issues, the interests of the Global South have not been given priority. On issues like climate finance, sustainable development, and technology access, the Global South has often received nothing but token gestures."

PM Modi defined BRICS as a symbol of advancement in spite of these worldwide difficulties. He received a warm greeting from Brazilian President Luiz Incio Lula da Silva, who is hosting this year's summit. He wrote on social media, "Brics remains a powerful force for economic cooperation and global good."

Brazil is the current chair, and the summit's theme, "Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance," reflects its priorities. The summit this year is anticipated to conclude with two high-level declarations: one on the governance of artificial intelligence and the other on the financing of climate change regimes. The final talks may also focus heavily on promoting the use of national currencies in intra-Brics trade.

In 2024, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates joined Brics, which was first formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Indonesia joined in 2025.

The Prime Minister praised the group's recent growth and referred to Brics as a representation of flexibility and inclusivity.

He said, "The expansion of Brics and the joining of new friends is proof that Brics is an organisation that can change itself according to the times. Now, we will have to show the same willpower for reforms in institutions like the UN Security Council, WTO and Multilateral Development Banks.”

Modi had already been to Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, and Argentina before coming to Brazil on the fourth stop of his five-nation trip.

Aadrika Tayal