ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Global South Diplomacy: India’s Leadership Aspirations and the Ukraine War as a Test of South–South Solidarity

India, through its diplomatic actions in favor of multipolarity and solidarity, is becoming an increasing force in world affairs; particularly in the context of the Global South, which includes developing countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America. As part of this study on the leadership aspirations of India in Global South Diplomacy, we will be analyzing India’s position regarding the Ukrainian War as a test case of South-South solidarity. Our research will rely upon theories related to middle-power diplomacy and solidarity politics in order to analyze India’s neutral position on the conflict; its support for dialogue between Russia and Ukraine; and its initiative of consensus building at the G20 in order to create a unified front for the Global South against western pressure and Russian/Ukrainian division. The study demonstrates that India’s role in the Global South has been both enhanced (by being able to use the crisis to amplify Indian voices regarding the negative impact of sanctions on food security) and diminished (due to differing levels of alignment with Russia and criticism of economic opportunism). The study demonstrates that India’s approach to the crisis has increased solidarity among Southern states by focusing on common vulnerabilities; however, there are significant barriers to continued solidarity, including China’s competitive interest in Southern states and ongoing internal divisions. The study provides further evidence of the agency of the Global South in crises, while also demonstrating India’s ability to help bridge divides toward a reformed global order. Overall, the Ukrainian War illustrates both the strength and the limits of solidarity in a multi-polar geopolitical environment.