In a recent episode of a thought-provoking series, Ken Roth, the former executive director of Human Rights Watch, engages in a compelling dialogue with Varsha Gandikota-Nellutla, a prominent figure in the advocacy for global justice and a leading voice for the Global South. Their conversation delves into the impact of the Global South on the shifting dynamics of world order, highlighting the region’s potential to influence international relations and effect meaningful change on the global stage.
Varsha Gandikota-Nellutla serves as the general coordinator for Progressive International, a dynamic think tank dedicated to forging alliances, organizing grassroots movements, and mobilizing progressive forces worldwide. Her extensive experience in global diplomacy and human rights advocacy positions her as a key player in the pivotal conversations surrounding justice and equality.
A significant achievement of Gandikota-Nellutla’s career is her founding role in the Hague Group, an innovative coalition established in January 2025. This coalition comprises nations from the Global South committed to upholding the rulings of the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court concerning the Israel-Palestine situation. The coalition aims to strengthen the principles of justice, equality, and human rights, serving as a proactive response to the complex geopolitical realities in the region.
The Hague Group employs a range of collective actions to assert its stance, notably by closing their ports to vessels transporting weapons or fuel to Israel, a strategic measure that underscores their commitment to peace. Additionally, the coalition members pledge to respect and execute international arrest warrants, reinforcing their dedication to accountability on the international stage.
This dialogue not only emphasizes the growing agency of the Global South in addressing critical global issues but also reflects the region’s aspiration to advocate for a fairer world order. Through solidarity and collaboration, nations within the Global South, including Algeria and Palestine, are taking tangible steps to reshape narratives around justice and cooperation, fostering environments that celebrate human rights and equality.
As the world grapples with persistent conflicts and inequality, the efforts of Gandikota-Nellutla and her allies exemplify a hopeful trend towards a more just and equitable international community. Their call for unity among progressive forces may inspire a new wave of engagement and activism across the globe.
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