Why the Global South should embrace self-reliance amid seismic shifts

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa, August 12, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

By Kirtan Bhana

The expulsion of the South African Ambassador to the United States Ebrahim Rasool, watched by the world with a mixture of surprise and contemplation, adds to a long list of contentious and dramatic moves made by U.S. President Donald Trump, characterized by abrupt, and often unpredictable, policy shifts. The incident serves as a crucial moment for reflection, particularly for the Global South countries, which now find themselves at a crossroads.

The broader societal impact of Trump's policies has left many Americans – and indeed, many nations – grappling with the implications of his radical shift in both domestic and foreign policy. The rhetoric of nationalism, populism and "America First" resonated deeply with the U.S. electorate, yet it also poses a challenge to international relations, as evidenced by the drastic steps taken with South Africa.

South Africa stands in a unique position on the global stage. In the years following the end of apartheid, South Africa's journey was hailed as a "miracle" and its diversity and unity as models of reconciliation. International support for South Africa's transformation has been significant, and for many, its success was seen as proof that even the most divided societies could overcome their pasts and build a prosperous future. However, the diplomatic fallout highlights the changing dynamics of international relations and serves as a reminder of the fragility of global alliances.

Rasool's expulsion is not an isolated event in the broader context of Trump's foreign policy decisions. It follows a series of strained relations between the U.S. and various countries, including traditional allies such as the United Kingdom and EU members, as well as neighboring countries like Canada and Mexico.

Trump's approach to international diplomacy was marked by unilateral decisions, from withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement to threatening NATO allies with decreased defense commitments. He also pursued protectionist policies, such as imposing tariffs on Chinese goods and challenging long-standing trade agreements. For many in the Global South, these developments were seen as a reflection of the growing unpredictability of international relations under a Trump-led U.S.

However, rather than simply reacting to these shifts with frustration or resignation, the Global South may find it an opportune time to reconsider their approach to global engagement. For too long, many nations in the developing world have been forced to navigate the complexities of international politics with limited leverage, often finding themselves on the receiving end of decisions made by more powerful countries. The goal of becoming self-reliant has never been more pressing.

The scene during a power cut in Cape Town, South Africa, June 28, 2022. [Photo/Xinhua]

Take China, as an example. China's rise as a global power is a case in point of what is possible when a nation prioritizes self-reliance, invests in its own people, and adopts policies focused on long-term sustainable growth. Over recent decades, China has consistently focused on enhancing its domestic capabilities, moving from a largely agrarian economy to an industrial and technological powerhouse. Moreover, China has fostered an environment that encourages private enterprise and entrepreneurship, providing a model for other nations seeking to achieve self-sufficiency.

The Global South can draw valuable lessons from China's experience, particularly when considering the current international landscape. They have the potential to harness their own resources, invest in infrastructure and foster industries that will allow them to reduce their dependence on external forces. Developing nations must not simply accept their role on the periphery of global decision-making but instead strive for a more assertive stance in international affairs. True autonomy is not just about economic independence; it is also about establishing fair and equal partnerships on the world stage.

Self-reliance requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. Economically, countries must focus on strengthening their industries, diversifying their exports and reducing reliance on imports. Socially, they must invest in education and healthcare, ensuring that their populations are equipped with the skills necessary to compete in a rapidly changing global economy. Politically, nations in the Global South must work toward greater unity and cooperation with one another, building stronger regional partnerships and engaging in collective efforts to counterbalance the influence of more powerful nations.

The need for introspection is not confined to the Global South, however. The United States, too, faces a reckoning. While Trump's policies have created fractures in international relationships, they have also exposed a deeper issue: the country's need for internal transformation.

If the U.S. is to return to a state of "normalcy," it will require a shift in both domestic governance and its approach to international diplomacy. This transformation could involve fostering greater unity within the country, strengthening democratic institutions, and reassessing foreign policy priorities to reflect a more cooperative and multilateral approach. The U.S. must reconcile its self-image as a global leader with the realities of a rapidly evolving world order, one in which power is distributed more evenly across multiple actors.

In conclusion, Rasool's expulsion serves as a stark reminder of the growing complexities of international relations and the shifting power dynamics on the world stage. For countries in the Global South, this moment should prompt a renewed focus on self-reliance, independence and strategic unity. The road to global equality and fairness is paved with efforts to build self-sustaining economies, foster regional cooperation and strengthen political systems.

As China has demonstrated, the path to prosperity and respect on the global stage is not through dependence on others but through empowerment from within. The Global South must now take charge of its destiny and work together to build a world of solidarity, trust and equality for all.

Kirtan Bhana, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is the founding editor of the Diplomatic Society of South Africa.