NEWS – 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit was held in Kampala, the capital of Uganda

HIGHLIGHTS

• 19th NAM Summit was held under Uganda’s leadership in Kampala. Uganda has taken over as chair from Azerbaijan, to run until 2027.
• Theme: ‘Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence’

NON-ALIGNED MOVEMENT (NAM)

• Group of countries that are not formally aligned with or against any major power bloc
• Movement emerged during the Cold War as a response to the bipolar division of the world into the Eastern Bloc, led by the Soviet Union, and the Western Bloc, led by the United States
• The primary goal of NAM has been to promote the interests and independence of its member countries while advocating for peace, justice, and economic development
• Originated during the Asia-Africa Conference held in Bandung, Indonesia, in 1955. The conference aimed to promote economic and cultural cooperation among newly independent nations and to address the challenges posed by colonialism and imperialism
• Founding principles of NAM are based on the Bandung Principles, which include mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, and equality among nations.

Beliefs and Objectives:

• NAM emphasizes the principles of non-alignment, peaceful coexistence, and respect for the sovereignty of nations.
• It aims to promote economic and social development, as well as to address issues related to decolonization, disarmament, human rights, and international peace

Summits and Conferences:

• NAM holds regular summits and conferences where leaders from member countries discuss and address global issues.
• The NAM Summit is the highest decision-making authority, and it is held every three years.

Challenges and Evolution:

• The end of the Cold War led to debates about the relevance of NAM in a changing global landscape.
• While some argue that the movement has lost its significance, others contend that it remains an important platform for cooperation and dialogue.

Criticisms:

• NAM has faced criticisms, including accusations of inefficiency, inconsistency, and a lack of a unified stance on various global issues.
• Some argue that the changing geopolitical dynamics require a reassessment of NAM’s role in international affairs.

Contemporary Relevance:

• NAM continues to be relevant in discussions on issues such as peace, development, and international cooperation.
• The movement provides a forum for countries to express their concerns, interests, and perspectives.

Chairmanship: NAM operates on a rotational chairmanship, and member countries take turns assuming the leadership role