the PRC needs clear identity and positioning in the Global South

context: Hotly discussed recently, the 'Global South' may inadvertently cause international political isolation. Insisting on the PRC's identity as part of or closely linked to the Global South, academics and organisations are eager jump on this bandwagon. According to an op-ed in Guancha, this is redundant and may be counterproductive. 

The concept of the 'Global South' is shifting from an economic to a political focus, according to an op-ed by Yu Jiantuo 俞建拖 China Development Research Foundation deputy secretary general in Guancha which highlights 

  • collective identity challenges
    • the Global South
      • aims for a collective identity, but it faces challenges
      • weak foundation impedes tangible benefits through collective action
      • promotes emotional opposition between 'South' and 'North'
  • definition of south states
    • south states are defined by economic level, geographical location and historical experiences
    • south-north and east-west tensions define global political influence
  • the PRC's changing status
    • the PRC is a south state based on development, but characteristics are changing
    • permanently claiming Global South identity may lead to future deviation
  • avoiding collective political action
    • the PRC
      • urged to avoid giving meaning to collective political action in the Global South.
      • emphasises the importance of using it merely as a descriptive concept
  • multiple identities and global interests
    • countries in the Global South, including the PRC, have multiple identities
    • the PRC's current and future interests are global and diverse
  • the PRC's positioning
    • the PRC
      • remains a south country, empathising with legitimate interests
      • prioritises a global approach with initiatives like a 'shared future for mankind'
  • rejecting moral and interest bindings
    • the PRC
      • rejects moral and interest bindings to the Global South concept
      • emphasises the right to cooperation based on mutual consent, not identity
  • future role of the PRC
    • the PRC envisions a future role as a bridge for communication and cooperation based on common interests and shared values with the south, not just identity
  • summing up the PRC's approach
    • the PRC should
      • grasp Global South issues, clarify misunderstandings and avoid identity-based traps
      • support development aspirations, share experiences and build a just, inclusive and sustainable international order