From the inception of the contemporary global framework, the Global South has consistently been positioned as if it inherently requires the West's assistance. By means of development assistance, capital infusion, and the exchange of technology, Western nations have positioned themselves as the primary force behind global advancement. This narrative is so ingrained that it appears to be an unassailable principle, impervious to scrutiny. In truth, this established order is not merely showing signs of fracture; it is gradually being dismantled. The Global South, representing a substantial portion of the world's population and its rich resource base and notable economic advancements, has undeniably secured a more influential stance within the international landscape. The inquiry has shifted from whether the Global South requires the West to a more pressing concern: does the West fully comprehend its reliance on the Global South?

The reliance of Western nations on the Global South is intricately linked to the evolving geopolitical and economic landscape. According to data from the World Bank, by 2023, nations in the Global South are projected to represent over 58 percent of global economic growth. Asia, Africa, and Latin America have evolved beyond mere suppliers of raw materials; they are now emerging as significant hubs of global economic expansion. Conversely, the Global South, with a population exceeding 6.5 billion, stands as the largest consumer market globally and plays a significant role in the international labor force. In light of current circumstances, the viability of worldwide economic advancement increasingly hinges on the Global South.

The reliance on this aspect becomes increasingly evident when examining the backdrop of the global energy transition. The prevailing discourse surrounding sustainability and the shift towards green energy is intricately linked to the availability of essential minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, most of which are sourced from the Global South. Bolivia possesses the largest lithium reserves globally, a crucial element in the manufacturing of batteries for electric vehicles. In a striking parallel, the Democratic Republic of Congo accounts for almost 70 percent of the global cobalt supply essential for green energy technologies. Ironically, the narrative surrounding the energy transition is frequently framed as a Western initiative aimed at global salvation, all the while the exploitation of resources in the Global South persists, perpetuating an unequal economic relationship.

This situation echoes the critiques put forth by dependency theorists like Raúl Prebisch and Andre Gunder Frank. The analysis exposes the structural dynamics of the global system, illustrating how it is meticulously crafted to keep nations in the Global South relegated to a subordinate role, primarily serving as providers of raw materials for the economic strongholds of the Global North. This framework remains relevant in numerous respects; however, the distinction now is that nations in the Global South are starting to recognize their influence. Indonesia's decision to limit exports of raw nickel ore to prioritize domestic processing exemplifies a significant shift that the Global South can leverage to reshape the global economic landscape. Through this policy, Indonesia has successfully enhanced the value of its resources, solidifying its role as a significant contender in the global battery industry supply chain.

Yet, the more pressing inquiry is whether the West comprehends the shifting dynamics of this order. For many years, Western nations have maintained a powerful stance in the global economic landscape, leveraging institutions like the IMF, World Bank, and WTO to establish regulations that benefit their interests. Nonetheless, this prevailing influence is facing growing scrutiny, particularly with the emergence of alternative coalitions like BRICS and various initiatives from the Global South. BRICS, now embodying over 40 percent of the global population and nearly a quarter of the world's GDP, stands as a testament to the ascendant influence of the Global South amidst the prevailing dominance of Western-led global institutions. The increasing number of nations aligning with this coalition signifies a shift in the global landscape, diminishing the West's previous dominance over the international agenda.

Conversely, Western powers' reaction to this change tends to be defensive. Protectionist policies have re-emerged prominently in developed nations, as evident in the Trump administration’s “America First” strategies and the substantial subsidies for domestic energy transition outlined in the Biden-era Inflation Reduction Act. These recent policies indicate a growing apprehension in the West regarding the economic advancements of the Global South. Rather than embracing the shifting landscape, there appears to be a tendency to retreat into isolationism.

In this scenario, the Global South stands at a pivotal juncture to reclaim authority over its destiny. Nevertheless, this prospect will undoubtedly present its share of obstacles. The division among nations in the Global South is frequently a significant barrier to fostering robust solidarity. Furthermore, the fragility of multilateral institutions in the Global South, including BRICS and the African Union, frequently hampers their capacity to engage in meaningful competition with more entrenched global entities. Consequently, we must unite our efforts to fortify these institutions and establish a more equitable framework for collaboration.

Acknowledging shared strength is crucial for reshaping the Global South's role within the international framework. Countries in the Global South should recognize their position not merely as aid recipients but as influential players with significant bargaining power. Utilizing its abundant resources, demographic advantages, and strategic geopolitical standing, the Global South has the potential to forge a new global framework that prioritizes justice and inclusivity. Initiatives like establishing resource alliances akin to OPEC, enhancing economic collaboration within the Global South, and advocating for the reform of international institutions could serve as foundational steps toward achieving this vision.

Ultimately, the most pressing inquiry is not whether the Global South requires the West but whether the West can come to terms with the reality that the world is no longer centered around them. In today's landscape of multipolarity, the Global South stands poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the global order. The pressing inquiry is whether they are prepared to seize this moment and if the West is equipped to confront a reality in which it no longer holds the position of dominance.