Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his address at the BRICS summit to deliver a forceful critique of the current structure of global governance, urging participating nations to work toward dismantling what he described as a "pyramid of privilege" that has kept developing countries on the sidelines of international decision-making for decades.
Speaking to leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and other partner nations, Modi argued that the post-World War II order, largely designed by and for wealthy Western powers, no longer reflects the realities of a multipolar world. He called for institutional reforms that would give the Global South a meaningful voice in shaping the rules governing trade, finance, climate action, and digital governance.
The remarks come at a time when BRICS has expanded its membership and grown more assertive in challenging Western-dominated institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. Several new members have joined the grouping in recent years, broadening its geographic and economic reach.
Modi emphasized that instead of merely reacting to decisions made elsewhere, countries of the Global South must step up as co-creators of global frameworks. He highlighted the need for fairer representation in international bodies, greater access to technology and financing for developing economies, and a multilateral system that does not treat smaller nations as secondary players.
Analysts note that India has consistently positioned itself as a champion of the Global South, leveraging platforms like BRICS and the Group of Twenty to amplify voices from Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. The prime minister's speech reinforced that strategy, framing economic justice and inclusive globalization as central goals for the coming years.
The summit also touched upon ongoing discussions around reducing dependence on the US dollar in cross-border trade, expanding alternative payment mechanisms, and reforming global tax structures to benefit emerging economies. While concrete outcomes remain to be seen, Modi's address marked a clear rhetorical push toward a more balanced international order.
