70th Anniversary of the First Asia-Africa Summit

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Asia-Africa summit held in Bandung, Indonesia in 1955. This historic gathering of Asian and African countries set a precedent for south-south cooperation and laid the groundwork for the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).

Significance of the Bandung Conference

• Convened by 29 newly independent countries to address colonial legacies and seek sovereign, independent action.
• Highlighted political independence, mutual respect, non-aggression, and non-interference, aligning with the UN Charter.
• Served as a platform for South Africa to challenge apartheid, with ANC delegates lobbying for international support.

Challenges to Multilateral Systems

The current global order faces a trust deficit, with increasing division and the undermining of multilateral systems.

• Key players in the UN system are contributing to its fragmentation and ineffectiveness.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the lack of reform in international organizations, particularly the UN.
• The UN Security Council (UNSC) reforms remain stalled, with no progress in equitable representation or veto reform.

South-South Cooperation and Global South

The Bandung Conference inspired a new model of cooperation for the Global South, though challenges remain in global geopolitics.

• Despite significant economic growth, countries like China, Brazil, India, and South Africa need to champion collective aspirations.
• The Global South is urged to lead in forging partnerships to address common challenges and ensure a just, equitable multipolar world.
• BRICS exemplifies efforts to challenge northern dominance and rebalance global power dynamics.

The legacy of the Bandung Conference continues to inspire efforts toward a fair and inclusive global community, aligning with the vision of its architects.