The G77 Summit in Cuba, themed “The Current Challenges of Development: role of Science, technology, and Innovation,” concluded this weekend, making Havana the proud capital of the Global South. This gathering, under Cuban leadership, addressed the pressing issues faced by developing nations in today’s global reality.
Established in 1964 by members of the Non-Aligned Movement, the Group of 77 (G77) aimed to unite and defend the economic interests of Southern countries on the international stage. It has since grown to become a diverse consensus group with 134 member states, representing two-thirds of the UN membership, 80% of the global population, and approximately half of the world’s economy.
The Havana Summit was a resounding success, with over 1300 participants from 116 countries and numerous high-level dignitaries, including 31 Heads of State and Government. It echoed the challenges faced by member countries, as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres acknowledged the historical injustices and neglect experienced by the Global South.
The central message from the Summit was the urgent need to reform the unjust global political and economic order designed to serve the interests of industrialized powers. This imbalance, combined with the climate crisis, exacerbates inequalities and hinders development in Southern nations. Cuban President Miguel Diaz Canel emphasized the demand for democratizing international relations, stating that the South suffers the most from poverty, hunger, and other consequences of underdevelopment.
He underscored the availability of resources to address these issues, pointing out that a small portion of military spending could fund digital inclusion, climate adaptation, and universal vaccination. He criticized the insufficient support from institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the meager allocation of Official Development Assistance for science, technology, and innovation.
The Summit’s Havana Declaration highlighted the need for a new international economic order, fair treatment of growing foreign debt, climate change financing, adherence to development assistance commitments, and the elimination of unilateral coercive measures.
Despite its limited resources and ongoing challenges, Cuba remains committed to supporting the Global South’s development, displaying its dedication to multilateralism, international law, solidarity, and cooperation with developing nations. India, a founding member of the G77, also reiterated its commitment to the Global South, emphasizing the importance of unity and solidarity within the group.
In conclusion, the G77 Summit in Havana reinforced the belief that a better world for all is not just possible but imperative, and it is a collective duty to work towards this goal.
