Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for sweeping reforms in global governance, saying the Global South must move from “being a rule-taker to a rule-shaper”. Addressing the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Modi said BRICS is not an alliance aimed against any country. He proposed a 10-point roadmap focused on making global institutions more representative, responsive and inclusive.

Modi said the present global governance system keeps decision-making concentrated among a few powerful nations. Many countries are affected by these decisions without any say in them. "While strengthening BRICS, we must also chart a course for global reform. The current structure of global governance resembles a pyramid: power and decision-making are concentrated at the top, while the lower tiers consist of nations that are affected by these decisions yet unable to shape them," he said.

The Prime Minister called for replacing this "pyramid of privilege" with a "platform of partnership". He said countries must have a meaningful voice in decisions that shape their future. He identified Representation, Responsiveness and Rule-making as three major areas requiring reform.

Modi made a strong push for reform of the United Nations Security Council, saying the issue could not remain unresolved indefinitely. He called for a fixed timeline for negotiations and clear outcomes. "I would like to state that reform of the UN Security Council can no longer be postponed," he added, “Negotiations on this matter must be linked to a definite timeframe and clear outcomes. Similarly, voting power, leadership positions, and policy priorities within financial institutions must align with today's economic realities.”

He also linked global representation with changing economic realities. Modi said international financial institutions and global policy bodies must better reflect the current economic balance. He further called for greater participation of the Global South in framing rules for emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, cyberspace, outer space, biotechnology and critical technologies.

"The third point I wish to raise concerns rule-making. Ensuring equal participation in defining future global rules is crucial. Domains such as AI, cyberspace, outer space, biotechnology, and critical technologies are not only shaping future opportunities but also defining future rules," he said.

Modi proposed using BRICS to strengthen the capabilities of young diplomats and policymakers from developing nations. He suggested training in negotiations, practical experience and legal expertise. "We must strive to transform the Global South from a 'rule-taker' into a 'rule-shaper.' Through BRICS, we can equip young diplomats and policymakers from Global South nations with negotiation skills, practical training, and legal expertise," he added.

Modi also raised the issue of maritime safety and proposed a 'Seafarers' Emergency Support Network' to assist seafarers during crises. His proposal comes amid recent attacks on merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz since the start of the US-Iran war. He stressed the need to keep key sea routes safe, given their importance to global trade.

"Friends, the message from this BRICS Summit being hosted by India should be clear. If our future is shared, the right to shape that future should also be shared. From voice to impact, from privilege to partnership, this should be the guiding resolve of BRICS at present. Thank you very much," he said.