In many parts of the Global South, a perplexing question lingers: why should they support the U.S.-led coalition backing Ukraine in its conflict with Russia? For these nations, the war seems like a distant European feud, bearing little relevance to their pressing concerns.
Recent events surrounding the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) have sharpened this perspective. Developing countries face overwhelming challenges, with climate change looming as a significant threat. Yet, as these nations grapple with existential issues, Western powers, particularly the G7 countries, remain fixated on the Ukraine conflict.
British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly acknowledged that the war is “putting pressure on countries all over the world.” Despite this admission, the relentless focus on Ukraine has led to frustration among countries in the Global South.
Since the conflict began in February last year, many developing nations have chosen to remain neutral, refraining from taking sides. This stance has irked leaders in the United States and Europe, who expect global solidarity against Russia.
It is imperative to understand the viewpoints of the Global South regarding the Ukraine conflict. These countries are acutely aware of the economic ramifications stemming from the war, including surging inflation and spikes in food and oil prices. For them, the priority lies in addressing immediate challenges such as economic stability, development, and combating climate change.
The insistence of Western nations on prioritizing the Ukraine conflict overlooks the urgent needs of developing countries. By understanding and addressing these concerns, there is an opportunity to foster a more inclusive global dialogue that considers the diverse priorities of all nations.
Reference(s):
Global South and Ukraine conflict: Challenging the West's narrative
cgtn.com
