At BRICS summit, Modi calls for inclusive global order, urgent reform of institutions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for a new, multipolar and inclusive world order, urging comprehensive reforms in global governance institutions to reflect the priorities of the Global South.

Speaking at the ‘Reform of Global Governance’ session at the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Modi said reforms must go beyond symbolism and deliver visible changes in governance structures, voting rights and leadership positions.

He criticized the United Nations Security Council, the IMF, the World Bank and the WTO as outdated, arguing that two-thirds of humanity remain underrepresented in these bodies.

Comparing them to “a mobile phone with a SIM card but no network” and saying “21st-century software can’t run on a 20th-century typewriter,” he called for institutions to adapt as rapidly as technology.

Modi said the double standards faced by developing nations in development, resources and security must end, and the priorities of the Global South must drive policymaking.

He thanked Brazil for its dynamic leadership of BRICS this year, welcomed Indonesia as the newest member of the grouping, and underscored BRICS’ role as a force for economic cooperation and global good.

He also addressed a session on peace and security, calling the April terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 civilians, “an assault on India’s soul, identity and dignity,” and condemned nations that turn a blind eye to terrorism for personal or political gain.

Modi reiterated that there should be no hesitation in imposing sanctions on terrorists and that victims and supporters of terrorism cannot be treated equally.

His remarks were widely seen as a veiled reference to countries that have blocked international action against known terrorists.

Modi was in Brazil as part of a five-nation tour from 2-9 July to strengthen India’s diplomatic and economic ties, having earlier visited Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Argentina.

He will conclude the trip with a stop in Namibia before returning to India.