South-South Cooperation: The success of one is the success of all

A delegation of Indian parliamentarians visited the UN headquarters in New York last week for the publication of the annual report of the India-UN Development Cooperation Fund, which shows the growing momentum of South-South cooperation.

“The success of one is the success of all” is not just a phrase: it is the basic principle underpinning the UN-India Development Partnership Fund, which is transforming the development landscape for countries in the Global South.

Established in 2017 with an initial commitment of 150 million dollarsthe Fund is promoted by the Government of India in collaboration with the United Nations.

To date, it has supported 84 projects in 62 countriesaddressing topics ranging from green energy to agricultural resilience.

Revolutionize development models

In a world where traditional aid models have often been criticized for their top-down approach, South-South cooperation is a unique framework of horizontal collaboration between developing countries across the southern hemisphere.

By prioritizing mutual learning and shared solutions, this model provides an inclusive platform where member countries, international organizations, civil society and the private sector can collectively address global challenges.

«In this difficult global context, the South-South cooperation and triangular cooperation open new horizons to catalyze progress», declared Dima al-Khatib, director of the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC), in a recent interview with UN News.

India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador P. Harish, reinforced this sentiment, highlighting India’s commitment as a multicultural, multi-religious and multi-lingual nation to share its development experiences with other countries in the Global South.

He annual report of the India-UN Partnership Fund presents compelling examples of projects, in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Renewable energy for island nations

For example, 11 Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) have installed solar energy systems on government buildings, significantly reducing carbon emissions.

«This project will help Fiji get closer to its goal (…) to generate almost 100% renewable energy by 2030,” declared the country’s president Williame Katonivere at the inauguration of the solar energy initiative.

This commitment not only supports the transition to renewable energy, but also aligns with the global drive to achieve affordable, reliable and sustainable energy access, as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7).

By relying on solar energy, these countries minimize their dependence on imported fossil fuels, freeing up vital resources for other critical development needs.

Improving healthcare in Kyrgyzstan

In Kyrgyzstan, the Fund is transforming maternal healthcare in five hospitals through telemedicine and counseling services. The incorporation of automated systems will improve the quality of services and simplify processes for both patients and medical staff.

«This project is very important for the country, since it aims to reduce avoidable maternal morbidity», declared Meder Ismailov, First Deputy Minister of Health.

With these innovations, Kyrgyzstan is taking bold steps to improve healthcare access and outcomes for women and families.

Lao farmers participate in a south-south cooperation program.

Greater agricultural resilience

In Burkina Faso, a new dam is helping more than 8,700 people in 17 villages have reliable water for agriculture and daily needs.

This intervention has been critical for this landlocked nation, where the unpredictability of rainfall, compounded by the climate crisis, has long hampered food security.

Now, fertile land and a steady supply of water are transforming lives, fostering both livelihoods and economic stability.

As the director of the UN Office for South-South Cooperation noted, “There are so many examples in which the growing impact of this can be perceived..»

Critical juncture

With just five years left to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the urgency has never been greater, said al-Khatib.

Initiatives like the India-UN Development Partnership Fund offer a roadmap for transformative change, prioritizing equity, trust and sustainability.

Now is the time to amplify these efforts, build on the successes and ensure that no one is left behind in the race towards a sustainable future, he stressed.