During the Cold War, the world was divided into two camps, the capitalist camp led by the United States and the socialist camp led by the Soviet Union. Against this background, the rise of the non-aligned movement provides developing countries with a diplomatic option that is not dependent on any party and has become an important force in changing the global power structure.
The non-aligned movement gradually took shape at the Bandung Conference in 1955. The core concept of the conference was to oppose colonialism and imperialism and seek to maintain independence in the game of great powers. This movement was formally established in Belgrade, Yugoslavia in 1961, attracting participation from many countries.
The joining of these countries not only represents resistance to the pressure of Cold War globalization, but also symbolizes the birth of a new international cooperation model.
The movement aims to promote international harmony and peace, oppose excessive concentration of power, and emphasize the independence and self-determination of countries. As stated in the 1979 Havana Declaration, the national independence, sovereignty and security of non-aligned countries are indispensable.
"Our goal is to ensure the national independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of non-aligned countries."
The non-aligned movement emphasizes inclusivity and accommodates countries from different ideologies, from anti-imperialist socialist countries to capitalist countries pursuing economic prosperity. Despite this, the movement still faces divisions within the movement, particularly among member states, where conflicts and disagreements arise. For example, tensions between India and Pakistan, or the conflict between Iran and Iraq.
“Peace is achieved not through isolation but through efforts toward collective security and the expansion of freedom.”
With the end of the Cold War, non-aligned movements need to reexamine their position and role. In the current international situation, Western unilateralism and neocolonialism have become the new focus of the movement. For example, challenges arising from economic inequality and globalization have returned the non-aligned movement to its fundamental purposes.
"In today's unipolar global environment, non-aligned movements remain the spokesperson of the weakest countries."
Currently, the non-aligned movement not only focuses on traditional political and military issues, but also actively promotes sustainable development issues. It continues to emphasize dialogue on ensuring fairness and equality on global platforms, especially in the areas of poverty, social justice and economic development.
Going forward, non-aligned movements will need to redefine their role in globalization and international relations. Whether it can re-gather the consensus of member states and form effective political action is a major challenge facing the movement.
The historical significance of the non-aligned movement cannot be ignored. It challenged global power structures and powerfully supported the autonomy of countless developing countries. As a new global political and economic landscape takes shape, can the non-aligned movement continue to play a role in the future and become a bridge between emerging and developing countries?