Iran and the Global South
Seyed Mohammad Kazem Sajjadpour
Why Iran and the Global South? To answer this question, we need to explore three key dimensions: (1) the Global South as a real and active force in contemporary international relations; (2) the roles it plays in today’s global landscape; and (3) Iran’s consistent, meaningful, and dynamic membership in this international community.
The Global South has emerged as a tangible and influential reality in today’s international system. While its origins can be traced back to the mid-20th century Non-Aligned Movement, the post-Cold War evolution of global politics—especially over the past three decades—has significantly shaped its current form. The war in Ukraine marked a major turning point in this transformation. During the Cold War, the bipolar world order gave rise to a third camp that sought independence from both the United States and the Soviet Union. Although maintaining this autonomy was challenging—especially given the diverse leanings of non-aligned countries toward either bloc—this group endured. However, in the post-Cold War era, as the unipolar Western narrative gained dominance, the Non-Aligned Movement suffered setbacks. Early optimism toward the West quickly faded, and hegemonic behavior resurfaced. As tensions between Russia and the West grew, emerging powers began seeking support from actors beyond their immediate spheres. Interestingly, many states from the Global South rejected the appeals from both Moscow and Washington to take sides in the Ukraine war. This dual rejection helped solidify the Global South’s identity as an independent and distinct force.
Yet, the Global South’s emergence was not merely reactive. Two additional trends have contributed to its rise. First is the assertion of non-Western identities and the growing strength of South–South normative ties. In the 1990s and early 2000s, the Global South came to see the Western push for value homogenization as neither desirable nor beneficial. The perceived imposition of Western norms led to a stronger embrace of normative pluralism. Second is the development of non-Western institutions—particularly over the past two decades. The Global South began building its own international organizations, and multilateral diplomacy gradually broke free from Western dominance. China’s growing economic and political influence was instrumental in this shift.
As a result of these dynamics, the Global South has become an undeniable feature of international relations. It represents both continuity and transformation in relation to the old Non-Aligned Movement. On one hand, it continues the legacy of resisting bipolar pressures; on the other, it reflects a new era in which many countries in the Global South maintain strong ties with major powers but still resist adopting their strategic narratives. Above all, these countries are determined to advance their own economic and social development—drawing on opportunities from all global centers of power.
The Global South, therefore, is not only real but also functional. Its role in the international system stems from the interaction of its norms, institutions, and actors. One such role is that of a moderator: it helps balance and temper global tensions. It is not a passive actor but an initiator. Another function is facilitation: a web of institutions and organizations within the Global South supports South–South trade and broader economic cooperation. Additionally, it plays a supportive role in economic development projects. One could say the Global South serves as both an insulator and a generator of political space. It shields its members from excessive external pressures while fostering constructive internal interactions—both among its members and, when appropriate, with the global powers.
Iran is clearly a committed member of this Global South family—fully aware of its potential and actively engaged within it.
Iran’s alignment with the Global South stems from its long-standing pursuit of independence, a principle that became even more prominent after the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Iran’s connection to the Global South reflects both normative and institutional dimensions. From a normative perspective, Iran views world affairs through a Global South lens. It opposes hegemony, unipolarity, and great powers dictating the fate of others. At the same time, it advocates for South–South cooperation. Institutionally, Iran participates in all key organizations and forums associated with the Global South. This is not a symbolic or passive membership—it is active and dynamic.
Iran’s engagement with the Global South reflects a combination of structural realities and deliberate policy choices. Structurally, Iran is undeniably one of the few regional and middle powers in the world. Its geography, population, resources, and geopolitical position place it among a small group of influential states. But it is also a strategic decision by Iranian policymakers to align with like-minded and similarly situated countries in the Global South—rather than rely on or subordinate itself to any global power.
In sum, the Global South is a real and consequential part of today’s international order. It plays multiple roles, and Iran—as an active member of this family—is fully aware of its significance and committed to advancing its role within it.
