The International Day for South-South Cooperation is annually observed on September 12 to emphasize the significance of collaborative efforts among developing countries in the Global South. This day encourages economic, social, and technical cooperation to promote shared development goals.
Also Read: Taylor Swift’s Style Evolution
Why is September 12 Important?
- Originally, South-South Cooperation Day was observed on December 19. However, in 2011, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) changed the observance to September 12, marking the historic adoption of the Buenos Aires Plan of Action (BAPA) in 1978. This plan laid the foundation for promoting and implementing technical cooperation among developing countries.
- September 12 was chosen to commemorate the Global South Conference in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where 138 nations endorsed the BAPA, a major milestone for South-South Cooperation.
Theme for 2024: “A Better Tomorrow through South-South Cooperation”
- The 2024 theme, “A Better Tomorrow through South-South Cooperation,” highlights how South-South Cooperation (SSC) acts as a critical tool for building solidarity, exchanging knowledge, and fostering partnerships among Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).
- This theme underscores the value of SSC in supporting the development aspirations of nations across the Global South.
The Role of UNOSSC and the Birth of South-South Cooperation
- The United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC), initially formed in 1974, plays a pivotal role in fostering South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC).
- In 2013, this office became a specialized unit under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with a mission to promote global technical cooperation among developing countries.
- UNOSSC’s South-South Galaxy, launched in 2019, is a vital platform that facilitates knowledge-sharing and partnership, showcasing over 950 solutions from 190 countries and 600 organizations.
Objectives and Benefits of South-South Cooperation
- Self-Reliance: SSC aims to enhance the self-reliance of developing countries, empowering them to tackle challenges through cooperative efforts.
- Knowledge Exchange: Through SSC, countries in the Global South share knowledge and experiences, creating a powerful network for mutual growth.
- Addressing Global Needs: SSC is designed to help the least developed and crisis-affected nations, ensuring they can participate more actively in global economic activities.
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SSC is integral to achieving SDG 17, which focuses on revitalizing global partnerships for sustainable development. It also supports SDG 11, aiming to make cities inclusive, safe, and resilient.
South-South Cooperation: A Pathway to a Better Future
The International Day for South-South Cooperation 2024 on September 12 is a reminder of the power of unity among developing countries. SSC contributes to fostering economic resilience, building innovative solutions, and promoting inclusive growth. As we move towards a better tomorrow, SSC plays a central role in shaping a more equitable global economy.
Read More: Top 7 Weight Loss Myths that are Holding You Back
FAQs
What is the theme of the International Day for South-South Cooperation 2024?The theme for International Day for South-South Cooperation 2024 is “Solidarity, Sustainability, and Progress: Strengthening South-South Cooperation to Meet Global Challenges”. It focuses on fostering collaboration among developing countries to address common global challenges, including poverty, inequality, and sustainable development.
What is South-South cooperation?
South-South Cooperation (SSC) refers to the exchange of resources, technology, and knowledge among developing countries in the Global South. It emphasizes solidarity, mutual benefits, and collaborative efforts to achieve sustainable development, reduce poverty, and improve infrastructure without reliance on developed nations.
What is South-South relations in international relations?
South-South relations describe the diplomatic, economic, and cultural partnerships between countries in the Global South (Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the Pacific). These relations aim to strengthen regional and global influence, share development experiences, and foster political and economic unity among developing nations.
What is the South-South cooperation SDG?
South-South Cooperation supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting collaboration to tackle issues such as poverty (SDG 1), inequality (SDG 10), and climate change (SDG 13). SSC aligns with SDG 17, which focuses on building global partnerships to achieve sustainable development.
What are the four features of South-South cooperation?
The four key features of South-South Cooperation are:
- Mutual Benefit: It’s based on shared goals and reciprocal advantages.
- Solidarity: Emphasizes collective action to overcome challenges.
- Non-Conditionality: Free from political and economic conditions often attached by traditional donors.
- Diverse Modalities: Involves various forms of cooperation, including trade, technology exchange, and capacity-building.
What are the activities of South-South cooperation?
Activities under South-South Cooperation include:
- Technical Cooperation: Sharing technical expertise in agriculture, education, and health.
- Capacity-Building: Enhancing skills and capabilities in sectors like governance and infrastructure.
- Trade Agreements: Promoting interregional trade and investment partnerships.
- Cultural Exchange: Encouraging cultural and educational partnerships to strengthen ties between nations.
What are the challenges of South-South cooperation?
Challenges of South-South Cooperation include:
- Resource Constraints: Limited financial and technical resources compared to developed nations.
- Geopolitical Tensions: Conflicting interests and diplomatic relations can hinder cooperation.
- Lack of Infrastructure: Underdeveloped infrastructure can limit the effectiveness of projects.
- Coordination Issues: Difficulty in coordinating large-scale, cross-border projects.
What is the Special Unit for South-South Cooperation?
The United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC), formerly known as the Special Unit for South-South Cooperation, was established to promote, coordinate, and support SSC globally and within the UN system.
What is South-South cooperation on climate change?
South-South Cooperation on climate change involves developing countries sharing knowledge, technology, and best practices to address environmental challenges. It includes joint initiatives in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, disaster resilience, and reducing carbon emissions.
Which countries are there in the South-South cooperation?
Countries in the Global South that actively participate in South-South Cooperation include Brazil, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Argentina, Indonesia, Mexico, Nigeria, and many others from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean.