PM Modi calls for urgent global governance reform at BRICS summit

New Delhi, Jul 6: At the BRICS Summit session on global governance held in Brazil, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a forceful case for comprehensive reform of international institutions, asserting that the current global order has failed to reflect the realities and aspirations of the Global South. Speaking in Hindi, Modi thanked Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for the “energetic and visionary” leadership of the 17th BRICS Summit, that under Brazil’s presidency, the grouping had received “not just an espresso—but a double espresso shot of energy.” He also congratulated Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Indonesia's inclusion in the expanded BRICS family.

Modi’s remarks sharply criticised the prevailing structure of global institutions, which he said continue to neglect two-thirds of the world’s population. “Institutions created in the 20th century have failed to provide adequate representation to the Global South,” he said. “It’s like using a mobile phone with a SIM card but no network. These systems are simply not connected to the needs of today’s world.”

The Prime Minister accused the international system of operating on double standards, particularly in matters of development, climate finance, technology access, and security. “Whether it is the allocation of resources or attention to security concerns, the interests of the Global South are routinely sidelined,” he noted. “On vital issues like sustainable development and climate justice, we have received little more than symbolic gestures.”

Calling for a “new, multipolar and inclusive world order,” Modi stressed that reform cannot be superficial. “It must be meaningful, with real changes in governance structures, voting rights, and leadership positions. The Global South deserves a voice, not just a seat,” he said.

He highlighted the outdated nature of international frameworks in the digital age: “In an era of Artificial Intelligence, where technology updates weekly, we cannot continue with institutions that haven’t changed in 80 years. You cannot run 21st-century software on 20th-century typewriters.”

Modi also emphasized BRICS as a platform for change, pointing to its expansion as a sign of its adaptability. “The inclusion of new members shows BRICS has the capacity to evolve. Now we must apply this same resolve to push for reforms in the UN Security Council, WTO, and global financial institutions.” Reiterating India’s commitment to global well-being, he said, “India has always seen it as its dharma to serve humanity beyond self-interest. We stand ready to contribute constructively on every front with our BRICS partners.”