At the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and associated meetings in September 2025, India championed the cause of the Global South, advocating for reforms and greater representation for developing nations on the world stage. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar led India's efforts, emphasizing the importance of multilateralism in addressing global challenges and promoting collaboration among developing countries.

India's commitment to the Global South is rooted in its own experiences as a developing nation and its belief in a more equitable world order. India has maintained a policy of strategic autonomy, engaging with both the West and the Global South to bridge divides on critical issues such as climate change, trade, and security. This approach allows India to act as a diplomatic bridge, fostering dialogue and understanding between different perspectives.

During the UNGA week, Jaishankar hosted a high-level meeting of like-minded Global South countries, focusing on enhancing collaboration, solidarity, and multilateral engagement. Discussions centered on key global issues, including climate justice, digital technology, and the urgent need for multilateral reforms. India proposed strengthening consultations among the Global South and sharing experiences and achievements in areas such as vaccines, digital capabilities, education, agriculture, and small business development.

India's advocacy for the Global South at UNGA 2025 included: * Reforms in global institutions: India has consistently called for reforms in global governance institutions like the UN Security Council, World Bank, and WTO to create a fairer and more equitable world order. India is a proponent of an expanded UNSC that reflects the rise of emerging powers and developing nations. * Economic cooperation: India has been increasing trade relations and investments with African and Latin American countries, particularly in sectors like telecommunications and pharmaceuticals. * Development assistance: India provides infrastructure development, lines of credit, capacity building programs, and technical assistance to developing countries. * Climate action: India is committed to sustainable development and climate justice for vulnerable nations. India is actively engaged in discussions and negotiations designed to promote sustainable practices and mitigate climate change. * Digital transformation: India is a global leader in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and is committed to sharing its digital solutions and best practices with developing countries.

India's engagement at UNGA 2025 also involved:

• Bilateral meetings: Jaishankar held approximately 30 bilateral meetings, with more than half of them with developing nations.
• Participation in Global South groupings: India actively participated in multiple Global South groupings, including BRICS, IBSA, India-CELAC, India-SICA, FIPIC, L-69, C-10, and the Like-Minded Global South group.
• Addressing global challenges: India raised issues such as energy and food security, climate finance, and fair market access, advocating for solutions that address the specific needs and challenges faced by developing countries.

India's efforts to amplify the voice of the Global South at the UNGA are aligned with its vision of "Vishwa Bandhu" (friend of the world), advocating for inclusivity in global governance. India's role in including the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 during its presidency in 2023 exemplifies its commitment to Southern representation. India's strategic autonomy allows it to balance its relationships with both the West and the Global South, ensuring that the concerns of developing countries are not sidelined.

Through its active engagement, strategic initiatives, and commitment to multilateralism, India has solidified its position as a leading voice for the Global South at the UNGA and associated meetings. India's focus on UN reforms, economic cooperation, development assistance, and climate action demonstrates its dedication to creating a more equitable and sustainable world for all.