THE global division between south and north is due to the concentration of wealth in the north. The resource exploitation of the
south by the north has a long colonial history. The 18th century industrial revolution in Europe kept the south at the margin. The Global South, facing social, political and economic challenges, has long grappled with the issue of underdevelopment and connectivity. The colonial era has left an indelible mark on the world, particularly on the Global South. The industrial rise of rich countries in Europe was undeniably linked to the ruthless extraction of resources and labour from the colonies.
The industrial revolution in Europe was fuelled by the plundering of the Global South’s resources, particularly cotton and sugar grown on stolen land using enslaved African labour. The consequences of this exploitation were catastrophic for the South with genocide, dispossession, famine and mass impoverishment becoming the defining characteristics of this dark period in history. The prosperity of European nations was built on the backs of those whose lives were torn apart by colonial oppression.
BRI presents an unprecedented opportunity for the Global South to break free from the shackles of historical colonization and forge a path towards decolonization. By fostering mutual collaboration, harmonious development and a win-win situation, BRI can emancipate people, reduce poverty and link developmental policies with sustainable growth. Socialism with Chinese characteristics is a new hope for millions of people suffering from the inherent contradictions of capitalism.
The successful decolonization through BRI requires vigilant and inclusive planning, transparent governance and respect for the sovereignty and rights of participating nations. A collective commitment to social and environmental responsibility will ensure that BRI truly becomes a transformative force for the betterment of the Global South and the world at large. By adopting the principles of shared prosperity and sustainable development, BRI can catalyze a new era of cooperation, unity and progress, ultimately leading to a more equitable and just global landscape.
Decolonization begins with empowering the people of the Global South, granting them agency over their lives and resources. BRI projects emphasize local workforce participation, skill development and technology transfer, creating employment opportunities and bolstering human capital. By prioritizing inclusive growth and social development, participating countries can break free from historical dependencies and strengthen their economies from within.
BRI can be a counter hegemonic project to decolonise Global South by considering power dynamics, class struggles and imperialism in international relations. For the Global South, this perspective proves insightful in understanding how their interactions with the BRI are shaped by historical and structural factors. Historically marginalized by colonialism and capitalist exploitation, the Global South is characterized by underdevelopment, dependency and unequal exchange relationships with the Global North.
The BRI’s promises of infrastructure development and economic cooperation appear attractive to many countries in the Global South. However, Marxists argue that such projects should be approached with caution, as they may perpetuate dependency on foreign capital and contribute to the exploitation of cheap labour and natural resources.
In the light of the BRI’s success and global recognition, there has been a proposal to establish an organization named BRISD. This entity aims to enhance the BRI’s vision by emphasizing sustainable development. By leveraging Goal 17, which promotes partnerships for the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), BRISD can pave the way for humanity to realize the BRI’s objectives. As we celebrate this milestone, we celebrate the connectivity of people and the planet, fostering human dignity and sustainability.
As the BRI continues to evolve and other regional organizations like BRICS, ECO and the European Union gain insight from this mega developmental plan, it is essential for the Global South to devise its developmental plan to emancipate masses. By integrating the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals into their strategies, these nations can align their growth with sustainability and build a prosperous future for their citizens. This mission can be achieved through promoting the universal values of BRI developmental strategies by maintaining the soft power through cultural, economic and political leadership, making their ideas and interests appear natural and universally accepted. For governing the BRI, China must come forward to integrate culture, education and media for shaping the sustainable development in BRI participating countries. Moreover, the role of material conditions and economic forces in shaping societal development need to be considered for integrating BRI and SD. In the context of the BRI, China’s economic prowess and investment play a central role in steering infrastructural development in participating countries. However, it is crucial to examine how these material conditions might impact local economies and communities, either promoting inclusive growth or exacerbating existing inequalities. Following recommendations may strengthen BRI and sustainable development linkage in future.
- The engagement of the Global South with the BRI involves a complex interplay of power dynamics. While the BRI offers financial resources and development opportunities, it can also raise concerns about debt sustainability, loss of autonomy and the potential for neo-colonial practices. Understanding these power dynamics is essential to assess the extent to which participating countries can assert their interests and exercise agency within the framework of the BRI.
- Engaging with the BRI presents the Global South with both challenges and opportunities. On the one hand, the BRI can help address infrastructural deficits and stimulate economic growth, offering an alternative development model from the traditional western-dominated approaches. On the other hand, concerns over debt-trap diplomacy, environmental sustainability and local stakeholder participation require careful consideration.
- To ensure a mutually beneficial partnership, it is crucial for China and participating Global South countries to develop transparency, inclusivity, and open dialogue. Collaboration must prioritize the interests and aspirations of the local communities, embracing diverse perspectives and voices in the decision-making process.
The Belt and Road Initiative has the potential to shape the developmental landscape of the Global South significantly. Policymakers, academics and civil society need to work together to strike a balance between economic growth and safeguarding the sovereignty and welfare of the Global South countries in their participation in the BRI.
