Putin Calls for Expanding 'Global South' Representation in UN Security Council

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on the 12th (local time) that the global balance of power is shifting toward the "Global South"—referring to emerging and developing nations mostly located in the Southern Hemisphere—and the East, emphasizing the need to reorganize the UN Security Council to reflect this shift.

Russian media outlets, including TASS and RIA Novosti, reported that President Putin said in a speech at the BRICS summit held in New Delhi, India, that "the unipolar system of international relations, which served only the interests of a few countries, is becoming a thing of the past."

President Putin went on to say that "the balance of power is being reorganized toward new growth centers in the Global South and the East," adding that the international status and influence of BRICS are steadily growing.

However, he noted that the transition to a multipolar world is facing resistance from countries "accustomed to a colonial mindset," criticizing them for using tariffs, sanctions, and force to check rising competitors.

He also stated that "the UN Charter is a core source of international law," adding, "Even though some countries are attempting to replace it with an order based on 'rules' created by unidentified entities, we believe it is necessary to continue cooperating with like-minded BRICS member states to enhance the quality of the UN's activities."

He continued, "Such a process could be given momentum if the UN Security Council is expanded to include representatives from Asian, African, and Latin American countries."

Furthermore, he argued that the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the World Bank—which were established under completely different political and economic conditions than today—are "struggling to adapt to the gradual shift of economic activity centers toward emerging markets," calling for urgent reforms in these institutions.

During the opening ceremony of the summit, leaders of BRICS, including President Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, adopted a joint statement opposing unilateral sanctions that violate international law and urging restraint in Middle East conflicts, while also holding informal talks.

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.