Archive · 8 Aug 2025
Global South Redefines Alliances with Emergence of Mini-Blocs
Countries in the Global South are forming new groups called "mini-blocs" to work together.
These groups, like BRICS+ and the African Union, focus on specific problems like climate change and trade instead of picking sides in old rivalries.
This is like friends forming different clubs based on shared interests rather than always sticking with one group.
India is a key player, working with many different countries and groups at the same time.
These new groups offer more flexibility and help developing countries have a stronger voice in the world, but they face challenges in becoming truly effective.
The Global South is developing "mini-blocs" for cooperation, challenging traditional alliances.
These blocs prioritize issue-based cooperation over military alignment or ideological loyalty.
Multi-alignment is emerging as countries choose issues over sides in foreign policy.
India exemplifies multi-vector diplomacy by engaging with various blocs and partners.
Challenges include building institutional depth, addressing internal tensions, and overcoming external skepticism.
- Who
- Nations in the Global South, including India, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and others.
- What
- The emergence of "mini-blocs" in the Global South, fostering cooperation.
- When
- Ongoing, with the trend accelerating in recent years.
- Where
- Across the Global South, including Africa, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Gulf.
- Why
- To pursue issue-based cooperation, gain strategic autonomy, and challenge existing global power dynamics.
Traditional Alliances
Mini-Blocs
Approach to Alliances
Traditional Alliances
Traditional alliances and power structures.
Mini-Blocs
Mini-blocs represent a shift from traditional alliances.
- Key Blocs Mentioned
- BRICS+, SCO, I2U2, African Union, Global South Summit
- Focus of Blocs
- Issue-based cooperation, strategic autonomy
- BRICS+ Members
- Over 40% of world's population
- India's Approach
- Multi-vector diplomacy, strategic autonomy
- Challenges
- Institutional depth, internal tensions, external skepticism