The Rise of the Global South: Solving US Foreign Policy’s Next Puzzle

Sarang Shidore

Topic: The Rise of the Global South: Solving US Foreign Policy’s Next Puzzle
Date: Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Place: Irondequoit Country Club: 4045 East Ave. [14618]
Time: 5:30 Cocktails; 6:30 Dinner; 7:30 Speaker Presentation followed by Q and A
Cost: $55 per person, buffet style. Cash Bar
Dinner: Buffet style – 2 protein options, 1 vegetarian option

***Registration Policy: For reservations, please email MemberServices@WACROC.org. Mail your
check for the dinner[s] to: WACR, PO Box 25462, Rochester, NY 14625 no later than September 3.

The term “Global South” refers to countries in Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East, typically characterized by their developing economies and histories of colonialism or marginalization in global affairs. Historically, these nations have been at a disadvantage compared to the wealthier, industrialized countries of the Global North. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift as countries in the Global South are increasingly asserting themselves on the global stage.

One of the most significant indicators of the rise of the Global South is the robust economic growth seen in many of its nations. Countries like China, India, Brazil, and South Africa have become major players in the global economy. China, in particular, has transformed into the world’s second-largest economy and a key driver of global trade. Meanwhile, India is emerging as a major technology hub, with a burgeoning middle class and a rapidly expanding economy. This economic dynamism is also reflected in the increasing influence of regional organizations such as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) and the African Union. These entities are not only advocating for the interests of their member states but are also challenging the dominance of traditional Western-led institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.

The rise of the Global South is also evident in the realm of international politics. Many of these countries are playing a more prominent role in global governance. For instance, the G20, which includes several Global South nations, has become a critical forum for addressing global economic issues. Additionally, countries like Brazil and India are seeking permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council, arguing for a more representative and equitable international system. Furthermore, South-South cooperation—collaboration between developing countries—is growing. Nations in the Global South are increasingly working together to tackle common challenges such as poverty, climate change, and inequality.

Sarang Shidore is Director of the Global South Program at the Quincy Institute, and a senior non-resident fellow at the Council on Strategic Risks. He is also a member of the adjunct faculty at George Washington University, where he teaches a class on the geo-politics of climate change.

His areas of research and analysis are geopolitical risk, grand strategy, and climate security, with a special emphasis on the Global South and Asia. Sarang has more than 100 publications to his credit in journals, edited volumes, and media outlets in his areas of expertise, including in Foreign Affairs, The New York Times, The Nation, South China Morning Post, Council on Foreign Relations and others. Prior to his current role, Sarang was director of studies at the Quincy Institute, senior research scholar at the University of Texas at Austin, and senior global analyst at the geopolitical risk firm Stratfor Inc. and previously also spent more than a decade in engineering and product management in the technology industry.

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