BRICS Summit 2026: PM Modi Calls on Global South to Become ‘Rule Shapers’ in Global Governance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the Global South to move from being rule takers to rule shapers, calling for global governance reforms and stronger representation.

PM Modi Calls for a Stronger Role for Global South

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on developing nations to take a more active role in shaping international rules and policies instead of remaining largely on the receiving end of global decisions.

Speaking at the opening session of the two-day BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi, Modi highlighted the growing importance of emerging economies in the global economy and international affairs.

He argued that countries across the Global South frequently experience the most severe consequences of economic disruptions, conflicts and other global crises, despite having limited influence over decisions taken by major international institutions.

According to the Prime Minister, the time has come for developing countries to become “rule shapers” and participate more meaningfully in determining the direction of global governance.

Modi Seeks Reforms in Global Governance

Modi criticised the existing international governance framework for concentrating decision-making authority among a relatively small group of countries.

He compared the current structure to a “pyramid of privilege”, where influence is concentrated at the top. He proposed transforming this model into a “platform of partnership”, where countries have a greater voice and a meaningful stake in global decisions.

The Prime Minister suggested that BRICS countries should jointly prepare 10 proposals for global governance reforms. These recommendations could eventually become part of a broader BRICS reform roadmap to be considered at a future summit.

The proposal reflects India's push for a more representative international system in which emerging and developing economies have greater participation.

Strong Push for UN Security Council Reform

Reforming the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) was another major issue raised by Modi.

The Prime Minister argued that changes to the global body should no longer be postponed, pointing to the changing balance of economic and political influence around the world.

For India and several other developing nations, UNSC reform has remained an important issue, particularly regarding greater representation for countries and regions that have historically had limited influence in the institution's permanent decision-making structure.

Modi's remarks at the BRICS Summit reinforced India's position that international institutions must evolve to reflect contemporary global realities.

BRICS Is Not Directed Against Any Country

While calling for significant reforms, Modi stressed that BRICS should not be viewed as an alliance formed against any particular nation.

He said the grouping has developed its own identity on the international stage while remaining focused on cooperation among member countries.

The statement comes against the backdrop of continuing geopolitical tensions and conflicts in different parts of the world. Wars and instability, including developments involving Ukraine and West Asia, have created economic and security challenges for developing nations.

Such disruptions can affect energy prices, food supplies, trade routes, investment flows and overall economic stability, making greater coordination among emerging economies increasingly important.

Major Global Leaders Attend BRICS Summit

The 2026 BRICS Summit in New Delhi brings together leaders from several major emerging economies.

Among the prominent participants are Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Their participation highlights the expanding geopolitical and economic significance of BRICS.

The grouping has also expanded its membership in recent years, increasing its representation across different regions and strengthening its position as a platform for cooperation among emerging economies.

PM Modi Proposes BRICS Seafarers’ Network

In another significant proposal, Modi called for the creation of a BRICS seafarers' network focused on the safety, welfare and professional interests of maritime workers.

Seafarers play an important role in keeping international trade moving, with a large share of global goods transported through maritime routes.

However, geopolitical tensions and disruptions to shipping corridors have increased concerns surrounding maritime security and the safety of workers operating at sea.

A dedicated BRICS network could provide a platform for member countries to cooperate on issues affecting seafarers, including safety standards, welfare and coordination.

Maritime Security Gains Importance

The proposal for a seafarers' network comes at a time when disruptions to international shipping have highlighted the importance of secure maritime routes.

Any prolonged disruption to major trade corridors can increase transportation costs and create delays in the movement of essential commodities and industrial goods.

For BRICS economies, many of which are heavily involved in international trade, stronger maritime cooperation could support supply-chain resilience and economic stability.

BRICS Pushes for a Greater Global South Voice

The Prime Minister's proposals reflect a wider effort by BRICS to strengthen the collective voice of emerging and developing economies.

For years, countries in the Global South have argued that international institutions created decades ago do not fully reflect today's economic and demographic realities.

BRICS has increasingly positioned itself as a platform through which developing nations can discuss economic cooperation, development financing, trade, technology, governance and other global issues.

Modi's call for the Global South to become a rule shaper adds a political and institutional dimension to this agenda.

Focus on Partnership and Inclusive Decision-Making

The central message from Modi's BRICS address was the need to move towards a more inclusive international system.

Rather than simply seeking greater representation, the proposals aim to encourage developing nations to play a more active role in designing global policies and institutions.

The proposed governance roadmap, UNSC reforms and seafarers' network demonstrate the broad range of issues BRICS is seeking to address.

As emerging economies gain greater economic importance, their demand for a stronger voice in global decision-making is also expected to grow.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BRICS Summit address highlighted India's push for a more representative and inclusive global governance system. His call for the Global South to transition from rule takers to rule shapers reflects growing demands for greater participation by emerging economies in international decision-making. The proposed 10-point reform roadmap, renewed emphasis on UNSC reform and the BRICS seafarers' network could strengthen cooperation among member countries. As geopolitical and economic challenges continue to reshape the world, BRICS is seeking to position the Global South as a more influential force in shaping global rules and institutions.