The BRICS test for India's multipolarity rhetoric
Source: The Hindu
For Prelims: BRICS, New Development Bank, UNSC, G-20
For Mains: New Delhi's Dilemmas, China Factor, Global Governance
Highlights of the Article
United Nations Security Council
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
G-7
G-20
BRICS Summit
Global Governance
Context:
New Delhi is back in the thick of global geopolitics of things - Chairing summits, navigating tricky Manichean choices, ducking geopolitical whirlwinds, and negotiating a place at the high table of global governance
UPSC EXAM NOTES ANALYSIS:
1. BRICS
- BRICS is an acronym that refers to a group of five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The term was originally "BRIC," representing these four countries, until South Africa was included in 2010, making it "BRICS."
- It is a grouping of five major emerging economies that have been growing rapidly in recent years. The BRICS countries account for about 40% of the world's population and 25% of the global economy
- The BRICS countries have a combined GDP of over $20 trillion and a population of over 2.8 billion people. They are also home to some of the world's fastest-growing economies. This makes BRICS a significant force in the global economy
- The BRICS countries have also been working to increase their cooperation on security issues. They have held a number of joint military exercises and have agreed to cooperate on counter-terrorism and cyber security
The BRICS countries have been collaborating on a number of initiatives, including:
- Trade and investment
- Finance
- Infrastructure
- Technology
- Security
- Climate change
2. Many Paths to Global Governance
- The BRICS countries are playing an increasingly important role in global governance. They have been working to increase their influence in a number of international organizations, such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund.
- They have also been establishing their own joint institutions, such as the BRICS Bank and the New Development Bank.
- While not a formal institution like the United Nations or the World Trade Organization, BRICS serves as a forum for dialogue and cooperation among its member countries to address global issues and promote a multipolar world order.
Here are some ways through which BRICS aims to contribute to global governance:
Reforming International Financial Institutions: One of the key areas where BRICS seeks to influence global governance is in the reform of international financial institutions, such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.
Currency and Reserve Pooling: BRICS countries have explored the possibility of creating alternative mechanisms for currency swaps and reserve pooling, reducing their dependence on the U.S. dollar and traditional international financial systems
Trade and Investment Cooperation: BRICS promotes trade and investment cooperation among its member countries, aiming to enhance economic growth and development.
Political Coordination: BRICS countries often coordinate their positions on major international issues, including peace, security, and conflicts
Development and Sustainability: BRICS emphasizes sustainable development and poverty alleviation. The member countries collaborate on projects and initiatives aimed at addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges.
Cultural and Educational Exchanges: BRICS encourages cultural and academic exchanges to promote a deeper understanding among its member countries.
Technology and Innovation: BRICS recognizes the importance of technological innovation and cooperation to address global challenges.
Infrastructure Development: Infrastructure development is a priority for many BRICS countries
3. India's dilemma
- India is a rising power with a growing economy and global influence. However, it is also a country with a complex history and a diverse set of interests. This can make it difficult for India to navigate the challenges of global governance and geopolitics
- One of India's biggest dilemmas is how to balance its relations with the United States and China. The US is India's traditional ally, but China is its largest trading partner. India also has a long-standing rivalry with Pakistan, which is backed by China.
-
India is also trying to balance its commitment to multilateralism with its desire to play a more independent role in the world.
-
India is a founding member of the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement, but it has also been critical of some aspects of the UN and has pursued its own independent foreign policy.
-
India's dilemma on global governance and geopolitics is likely to continue for the foreseeable future. The country is trying to find a way to balance its diverse interests and responsibilities in a rapidly changing world
4. China Factor
India shares a long and contested border with China, and the two countries have had historical tensions and border disputes. India seeks to engage with China economically and diplomatically while safeguarding its security interests. Managing the relationship with China while addressing border issues remains a complex challenge.
Here are some of the specific challenges that India is facing in global governance and geopolitics:
- The rise of China: China is a major economic and military power that is challenging the US-led order. India is concerned about China's growing influence in the region and its aggressive stance on territorial disputes.
- The US-China rivalry: The US and China are the two leading powers in the world and their rivalry is shaping the global order. India is caught in the middle of this rivalry and is trying to maintain good relations with both countries.
- The Pakistan-China alliance: Pakistan is a close ally of China and the two countries have a long history of cooperation. India is concerned about this alliance and its implications for its security.
5. Conclusion
India's approach to global governance and geopolitics is likely to evolve in the years to come. The country is becoming more assertive and is playing a more active role in international organizations. It is also deepening its ties with other emerging powers, such as Brazil, Russia, and South Africa.
|
Practice Questions
|
