Brief Summary
This episode of Newsesk explores the shifting global order, focusing on the decline of US hegemony and the rise of a multipolar world. It examines how India and South Africa are navigating this new landscape, particularly through their involvement with BRICS and their relationships with other global powers. The discussion covers topics such as the expansion of BRICS, the challenges of de-dollarisation, and the internal issues that may affect these countries' foreign policies.
- The decline of US superpower status and the rise of a multipolar world.
- India and South Africa's roles in shaping the new global order.
- The BRICS alliance and its implications for global power dynamics.
Intro and framing the topic
The programme introduces the concept of a growing multipolar world, where the United States' superpower status is diminishing, partly due to choices made under President Trump's "America First" policy. The discussion focuses on how countries are functioning independently in a world where the US is less dominant. The episode aims to explore how India and South Africa are shaping this new global order, featuring insights from DW correspondents based in India and Southern Africa.
Viewer comments and poll question
The hosts share a selection of viewer comments reflecting diverse opinions on the role of the US and the emergence of a multipolar world. Some viewers express a preference for the US as a partner, while others support the BRICS alliance as an alternative. A poll question is introduced, asking viewers to identify which leader—Narendra Modi, Donald Trump, Xi Jinping, or Cyril Ramaphosa—will most shape the new global order.
Multipolarity and BRICS expansion
The discussion begins with a clip of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa asserting the country's non-aligned stance and refusal to be drawn into contests between global powers. A statement from Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar is shared, advocating for a more flexible global order that reflects the current world rather than the post-1945 reality. The BRICS alliance is highlighted, noting its expansion with new members like Egypt, the UAE, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran. The recent BRICS meeting is discussed, acknowledging the absence of Putin and Xi Jinping, which raises questions about the alliance's strength but also presents opportunities for South Africa and India to assert leadership.
What South Africa wants from BRICS
South Africa views itself as a smaller player within BRICS but benefits from access to markets, technologies, and training programmes. The country aims to leverage its BRICS partnership to address its ongoing energy crisis and improve its energy situation through partnerships with China and other members. Trade between South Africa and BRICS countries has increased significantly, indicating a beneficial partnership for the South African economy.
India’s ambitions in the Global South
India aspires to be a leader within BRICS and the broader Global South, aiming to offer an alternative worldview and assert itself on the global stage. Prime Minister Modi's diplomatic efforts, including visits to Ghana, Namibia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Argentina, demonstrate India's commitment to engaging with Global South countries. India's proposal for the African Union to join the G20 highlights its ambition to champion the interests of the Global South and keep China in check within the BRICS alliance.
China’s role and India’s balancing act
China's significant role within BRICS is acknowledged, with its actions and stance influencing the alliance's discussions and positions on various issues. While BRICS members interact differently, China's presence is a major factor in the alliance's global relevance. India aims to maintain close ties with China to stay informed but recognises divergent goals and a lack of genuine friendship.
Foreign policy views in India and South Africa
Both South Africa and India prioritise associating and trading with diverse countries and trading blocs. South Africa aims to maintain a non-aligned stance, continuing conversations with China and Russia while also trying to preserve relations with the United States. Multilateralism is increasingly important for South Africa, given its trade relations with the European Union and China. India also increasingly favours multipolarity, prioritising its own interests in foreign policy. Despite Western pressure, India has refused to take a position on Russia similar to theirs, maintaining a thriving relationship and purchasing oil from Russia.
Reforming the international system
The discussion addresses the need for fairness and representation in the international system, particularly for Asian, South American, and African countries. There's a call for these countries to have a meaningful voice and set their own agendas. While platforms like BRICS are not necessarily anti-America, they serve as stages for these nations to be heard and assert themselves in the changing global landscape. South Africa supports international institutions like the UN and ICJ but advocates for reforms to address issues like the debt burden of developing countries.
Climate change and global cooperation
India has asserted itself on the global stage regarding climate change, arguing for climate reparations from Western nations due to their historical contributions to the problem. The sentiment is that there shouldn't be just a few countries running the system, and emerging economies are now "hacking" the system. The United Nations, while crucial, is underfunded due to the withdrawal of US assistance, impacting its ability to address global issues effectively.
Who leads the Global South?
China and India are seen as competing to represent the voice of the Global South. African countries seek to benefit from relationships with all BRICS partners and do not want to choose one over the other. This multilateral approach allows them to explore various opportunities and benefits from multiple relationships.
Trump’s tariffs and BRICS backlash
The discussion shifts to the relations India and South Africa have with the United States, particularly under the Trump administration. Trump's threat to impose tariffs on BRICS members and countries dealing with Russia has created uncertainty. India is walking a tightrope with the US, especially given its reliance on Russia for weapons and oil. South Africa has also attempted outreach to the US, but relations have become tense due to updated tariff announcements.
Can BRICS de-dollarize the world?
The possibility of de-dollarisation is explored, with India and South Africa expressing apprehension about China's attempts to propagate its currency globally. While de-dollarisation is discussed at BRICS meetings, there is a lack of movement on the issue due to challenges in choosing an alternative currency and concerns about creating power imbalances within the alliance. Domestically, the idea of de-dollarisation plays into nationalistic sentiments in India.
Regional leadership and domestic challenges
India's participation in multilateral organisations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is discussed, with the country aiming to assert its interests and maintain relationships with various blocs. However, there are debates about the success of this approach, particularly when it comes to garnering support during conflicts. South Africa faces challenges and advantages as a leader on the African continent, balancing its own interests with those of the continent.
Getting along with the neighbors
Being a leader on the African continent presents both challenges and opportunities for South Africa. While it allows the country to bring continental issues to the global stage, there can be conflicts between what is best for South Africa and what is best for the continent. South Africa has been involved in negotiations and peacekeeping efforts on the continent, lending credibility to its role as a continental leader.
Infrastructure and domestic challenges
South Africa faces significant domestic challenges, including power outages and unemployment. While these issues are real, the government has separate departments to handle domestic and international policies. South Africa hopes to attract foreign players to help address these domestic issues, positioning itself as the gateway to the rest of the continent. India also faces domestic concerns, including human rights issues, press freedom decline, and crumbling infrastructure.
Poll results and final thoughts
The poll results reveal that the community believes Xi Jinping will most shape the new global order, followed by Narendra Modi and Donald Trump. The discussion concludes with thanks to the guests and an announcement of the topic for the next episode.
