The Global South has become the force of transformative change in global economic, political, and environmental landscapes. The Max Bell School was pleased to host a distinguished panel of diplomats and government officials of Global South nations for an enlightening discussion. His Excellency Carlos Alberto França, Ambassador of Brazil to Canada (Consulate General of Brazil in Toronto), His Excellency Sanjay Kumar Verma, High Commissioner of India to Canada (Government of India), His Excellency Anselm Ransford Sowah, High Commissioner of Ghana to Canada (Government of Ghana), His Excellency Daniel Tumpal Simanjuntak, Ambassador of Indonesia for Canada (Embassy of Republic of Indonesia), and Mr. Geoff Black from Global Affairs Canada enriched us with their presence. The panel discussion, organized by MPPs Jamil Tanimu, Pallawi Anand, and Rebecca Kresta, provided a unique opportunity for our students to gain valuable insights into international relations and diplomacy.Â
Representing a collective population of 1.940 billion, the panel explored the potential of enhanced partnerships between Canada and the Global South. Jamil Tanimu welcomed all ambassadors and emphasized the importance of these partnerships in mitigating global inequality, hunger, poverty, and conflict. The spirit of the discussion is understanding, as the focus was on a multipolar order without collective self-defense or military alliances and emphasizing economic development. The ambassadors highlighted the importance of organizing the nations into a unified group, by setting the global agenda, challenging the status quo and fostering industrialization. The significance of avoiding oversimplification and considering the heterogeneity of countries for effective partnership was foregrounded. The strengths and weaknesses of external partners in trade, investment, and tapping into domestic expertise were discussed. Â
The Global South is most affected by climate change not being its primary cause, the panel discussed the need for funding, sustainable living in affected regions and introducing new initiatives such as Loss and Damage Fund, Bridgetown Initiative, and World Bank Evolution. The dialogue revolved around balancing climate change responsibilities, calling for equitable development, leveraging new technologies and maintaining ambitions. The role of diplomacy in maintaining regional peace and international collaboration is emphasized. The overarching theme of the panel discussion was to address historical injustices, promote equitable development, and foster international collaboration to tackle global challenges like climate change, economic inequality, and peacebuilding. The emphasis was on solidarity, innovation, and setting a new agenda for future globalisation.Â
