South as Peacemaker

Growing Role: Global South emerging as credible peacemaker, exemplified by Riyadh-brokered truces and potential UN-backed missions offering neutral alternatives.

Neutral Mediator: Global South’s non-alignment allows engagement with conflicting parties, like India’s stance on Russia-Ukraine.

Peacekeeping Contributor: Significant troop contributions to UN peacekeeping operations, fostering stability in conflict zones (e.g., India in Congo).

Diplomatic Convenor: Platforms like BRICS provide forums for dialogue and de-escalation, independent of Western influence.

Moral Voice: Shared colonial history lends legitimacy to advocate for sovereignty, equity, and non-intervention.

Inclusive Peacebuilding: Promotion of gender-balanced initiatives contributes to sustainable peace, demonstrated by India’s all-women police unit in Liberia.

Fragile Ceasefires: Success depends on pre-existing and enforceable ceasefires.

Boundary Ambiguity: Contested borders hinder deployment and risk renewed conflict.

UN Mandate Dependence: Requires UN Security Council backing for legitimacy, challenging due to polarization.

Western Assistance: Reliance on Western logistics and finance complicates claims of independence.

Capacity Constraints: Coordination, training, funding, and rapid deployment remain challenges.

Opportunity for India: Ukraine conflict presents a chance for India to demonstrate leadership, translate neutrality into action.

European Challenges: European-led peacekeeping faces Russian opposition and public resistance.

Global South Credibility: Neutrality allows for trust from both sides, injecting fairness.