Finnish President highlights growing influence of India and other Global South nations, calls for UN reforms
April 28, 2026: Alexander Stubb has said that the future global order will be shaped by “middle powers” from the Global South, including countries like India, Egypt, and Brazil. Speaking at the American University in Cairo, Stubb described the evolving global landscape as a “triangle of power” comprising the Global West, Global East, and Global South. He stressed that the Global South is no longer a passive player but an emerging force capable of reshaping international politics.
Quoting Mark Carney, Stubb highlighted the growing role of middle powers such as Nigeria, South Africa, Argentina, and Mexico in determining the direction of global affairs. He noted that the Global South holds significant demographic and economic advantages, giving it the flexibility to align with major blocs or carve out an independent path. He also pointed to Egypt’s young population as a sign of its rising potential in the global order.
Stubb also called for urgent reforms in the United Nations Security Council, including expanding permanent membership and reconsidering veto powers held by the five permanent members. Referring to a “New Delhi moment,” inspired by his remarks at the Raisina Dialogue 2026, he urged global leaders to rethink multilateral institutions. He further suggested empowering the UN General Assembly to override Security Council decisions, aiming to give greater voice and agency to emerging powers in global governance.