19th NAM Summit: Key Highlights and Global Impact

The 19th NAM Summit marked a crucial moment for the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), bringing together leaders from developing nations to discuss pressing global issues. This year’s summit focused on strengthening South-South cooperation, addressing the Gaza crisis, and reinforcing multilateralism. 

For UPSC CSE aspirants, understanding the 19th NAM Summit is essential for International Relations (IR). The summit’s resolutions impact India’s foreign policy, global governance, and the evolving world order, making it a vital topic for Mains and Prelims. In this blog, we’ll break down key discussions, major outcomes, and the summit’s significance for aspirants preparing for the UPSC exam.

The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), established in 1961 in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, emerged as a collective voice for newly independent nations during the Cold War. It was initiated by five prominent leaders—Jawaharlal Nehru (India), Gamal Abdel Nasser (Egypt), Josip Broz Tito (Yugoslavia), Sukarno (Indonesia), and Kwame Nkrumah (Ghana). They sought to avoid alignment with either the USA or the Soviet Union and promote an independent foreign policy.

Today, NAM has 120 member states, 17 observer countries, and 10 observer organizations, making it the second-largest international organization after the United Nations (UN). Despite changes in global geopolitics, NAM remains relevant in addressing challenges faced by developing nations and advocating for a multipolar world order.

Objectives of NAM

NAM was founded on the principles of peace, sovereignty, and non-alignment. Its key objectives include:

• Preserving Sovereignty and Independence 
• Opposing Colonialism and Imperialism 
• Promoting Global Peace and Disarmament 
• Strengthening South-South Cooperation
• Ensuring Social and Economic Justice 
• Upholding the UN Charter and Multilateralism 
• Opposing Racial Discrimination and Apartheid 
• Environmental and Climate Advocacy

Revise these 19th NAM summit notes to stay ahead in your UPSC prep!

The 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, was held in Kampala, Uganda, in 2024. The summit brought together global leaders to discuss pressing international issues and reinforce NAM’s commitment to peace, development, and multilateralism. 

The theme "Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence," the summit emphasized the need for stronger South-South cooperation, economic equity, and conflict resolution in an increasingly polarized world.

Key Highlights of the 19th NAM Summit

1. Hosted in Kampala, Uganda: The summit reinforced Uganda’s diplomatic role in international affairs, bringing together leaders from 120 member states. 

2. Uganda’s Chairmanship Until 2027: The leadership transitioned from Azerbaijan to Uganda, marking a new phase in NAM’s efforts to strengthen multilateralism.

3. The Kampala Declaration: A significant outcome of the summit, this declaration:

• Criticized Israeli military actions in Gaza, advocating for an immediate ceasefire.
• Called for UN resolutions to be implemented, urging increased humanitarian assistance for affected civilians.
• Reaffirmed NAM’s stance on self-determination, sovereignty, and international law.

4. Emphasis on Global South Cooperation: The summit focused on deepening economic and technological collaboration among developing nations, reducing dependency on Western financial institutions.

5. Strengthening NAM’s Role in Global Governance: Discussions emphasized the restructuring of international financial institutions, including the IMF and World Bank.

6. Addressing Climate Change and Sustainable Development: Member states highlighted the urgency of climate finance, technology transfer, and climate justice, urging developed nations to uphold their commitments under the Paris Agreement.

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The theme of the 19th NAM Summit, "Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence," reflects the growing importance of South-South Cooperation (SSC) in reshaping global economic and diplomatic relations. With developing nations contributing significantly to global GDP and trade, SSC has become a key mechanism for fostering economic resilience, technology exchange, and self-reliance among nations of the Global South.

What is South-South Cooperation?

South-South Cooperation refers to collaborative efforts among developing countries to promote economic growth, technological advancement, and political solidarity without excessive dependence on traditional Western powers or financial institutions. It encompasses trade, investment, knowledge-sharing, and infrastructure development among nations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Key Objectives of South-South Cooperation

Promoting Economic Development in the Global South

• Since its inception, organisations like the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) have played a crucial role in advocating for fairer trade policies, debt relief, and financial independence for developing nations.
• UNCTAD has consistently pushed for inclusive globalization, ensuring that developing economies benefit from international trade and investment.

Increasing the Contribution of the Global South to World GDP and Trade

• Over the years, emerging economies like India, China, Brazil, and South Africa have significantly contributed to global economic growth.
• The Global South now accounts for a major share of global GDP, demonstrating its rising influence in shaping international economic policies.

Expanding South-South Trade and Investment

• South-South trade now constitutes 35% of total global trade, highlighting a shift towards regional economic integration and reduced reliance on Western markets.
• This shift has been driven by intra-regional trade agreements, infrastructure projects, and technology-sharing initiatives.
• Examples include BRICS cooperation, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) dialogue.

Reducing Dependence on Western Financial Institutions

• Developing nations are working toward alternative financial mechanisms such as the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB). 
• Regional trade settlements in local currencies counter the dominance of Western-led institutions like the IMF and World Bank.

Enhancing Technology and Knowledge Exchange

• South-South cooperation fosters research collaboration, digital innovation, and technical training in sectors like renewable energy, agriculture, and healthcare.
• Initiatives like India’s Pan-African e-Network Project demonstrate how developing nations can support each other through digital infrastructure and capacity-building programs.

Must read: India-ASEAN Relations: Evolution, Challenges, and Future Prospects

India played a pivotal role at the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit. Represented by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, India emphasized the importance of conflict resolution, humanitarian aid, and sustainable global partnerships in addressing pressing international challenges.

India’s Key Contributions at the Summit

• India stressed the need for a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the ongoing crisis in Gaza and West Asia. 
• The Indian delegation called for immediate humanitarian relief, reaffirming India’s stance on territorial integrity, non-violence, and international law.
• India highlighted the escalating tensions in the Middle East, urging NAM members to work together for long-term stability and conflict de-escalation.
• The Indian delegation underscored the importance of UN-led efforts to uphold peace and security, aligning with its non-interference and peaceful negotiations approach.
• India reiterated the need to modernize and revitalize NAM to make it more responsive to contemporary geopolitical challenges.
• The country emphasized economic cooperation, digital transformation, and sustainable development as key areas where NAM nations should collaborate.
• India reaffirmed its commitment to South-South cooperation, advocating for increased trade, investment, and technology exchange among NAM nations.
• The delegation also emphasized India’s role as a development partner for Global South countries, showcasing initiatives like development aid, skill-building programs, and digital infrastructure projects.

Must read: Global Alliance Against Hunger & Poverty: Key Facts for UPSC Current Affairs

As the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) evolves in the face of global challenges, its member nations, including India, are increasingly focusing on sustainable and inclusive development. The summit underscored the need for leveraging technology, innovation, and international cooperation to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

Key Areas of Future Focus:

1. Harnessing Technological Advancements for Development

• NAM countries are committed to bridging the digital divide by investing in AI, clean energy, and digital infrastructure.
• Advancements in renewable energy, smart agriculture, and climate resilience technologies will be key in accelerating progress toward SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

2. Strengthening Global Partnerships for Sustainable Growth

• The movement emphasizes collective efforts in poverty alleviation, healthcare, and education, ensuring no nation is left behind.
• Collaboration with international institutions like the UN, World Bank, and regional development banks will be crucial in securing funding and technical expertise for sustainable projects.

3. Building a Just and Equitable Global Order

• NAM’s futuristic vision aligns with promoting a multipolar world where economic and political decision-making is more inclusive and representative.
• The movement will continue advocating for fairer global trade practices, debt relief for developing nations, and equitable access to critical resources.

By strengthening multilateral cooperation, embracing innovation, and prioritizing sustainability, the NAM aims to shape a more just, prosperous, and resilient world for future generations.

Also Watch: COMPLETE International Relations Current Affairs for UPSC PRELIMS '24 | SuperKalam

The 19th NAM Summit reaffirmed the importance of global solidarity and South-South cooperation in addressing pressing challenges, from conflict resolution to sustainable development. As NAM nations continue to collaborate on economic, technological, and humanitarian fronts, their collective strength will play a crucial role in shaping a more equitable and resilient world.

Moving forward, it is essential for member states to strengthen their commitment to multilateralism, harness their unique capabilities, and drive innovative solutions toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. The future of the Global South lies in continued cooperation, shared responsibility, and a unified vision for prosperity and justice.

Also, cover List of International Organisations and Their Headquarters for UPSC

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