You cannot run 21st-century software on 20th-century typewriters, says PM seeking reforms in multilateral institutions

New Delhi: You cannot run 21st-century software on 20th-century typewriters, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, strongly arguing for reforms in the multilateral institutions.

“The expansion of BRICS and the inclusion of new partners reflect its ability to evolve with the times. Now, we must demonstrate the same determination to reform institutions like the UN Security Council, the World Trade Organisation, and the multilateral development banks,” the prime minister said, addressing a BRICS session on the reform of global governance.

The BRIC comprised Brazil, Russia, India and China till its first expansion to include South Africa in 2010-11. The bloc was then renamed as BRICS. It added Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, Argentina, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as new members in 2023-24. Argentina later withdrew its application for membership of the BRICS, and Saudi Arabia delayed the process of joining the bloc, perceived as a counterweight to the G7. Indonesia joined the BRICS early this year.

“In the age of AI, where technology evolves every week, it's unacceptable for global institutions to go eighty years without reform. You can’t run 21st-century software on 20th-century typewriters!” he said, referring to the establishment of the United Nations in 1945.

India has long been asking for an expansion of the Security Council with permanent seats for itself, as well as for Japan, Germany and Brazil.

“Today, the world needs a new multipolar and inclusive world order. This will have to start with comprehensive reforms in global institutions. These reforms should not be merely symbolic, but their real impact should also be visible,” stressed the prime minister, calling for changes in governance structures, voting rights, and leadership positions. The challenges faced by countries in the Global South must be given priority in policymaking, he argued.

The prime minister said that the Global South had often faced double standards, be it about development, distribution of resources, or security-related matters. The interests of the Global South have not been given due importance. The Global South often received nothing more than token gestures on topics like climate finance, sustainable development, and technology access, he added.

“Two-thirds of humanity still lack proper representation in global institutions built in the 20th century. Many countries that play a key role in today’s global economy are yet to be given a seat at the decision-making table,”: noted the prime minister, adding: This is not just about representation, it’s also about credibility and effectiveness.

“Without the Global South, these institutions are like a mobile phone with a SIM card but no network. They’re unable to function properly or meet the challenges of the 21st century. Whether it's ongoing conflicts across the world, the pandemic, economic crises, or emerging challenges in cyber or space, these institutions have failed to offer solutions,” said Modi.