South Centre (organization) facts for kids

The South Centre is an organization where many developing nations (countries that are still growing their economies) work together. It was officially started by an agreement between governments on July 31, 1995. Its main office is in Geneva, Switzerland.

The South Centre acts like an independent group that studies important global issues and suggests solutions. It also has a special "observer status" at the United Nations and other international groups. This means it can attend meetings and share ideas, helping to represent the interests of developing countries.

How the South Centre Started

The South Centre was created in 1995 because countries in the "Global South" wanted to work more closely together. The Global South refers to countries in Africa, Latin America, and most of Asia.

Before the South Centre, there was a group called the South Commission. This commission realized that countries in the South needed to cooperate more on a global scale. In their report, The Challenge to the South, they highlighted how important it was for these countries to unite and support each other.

Speaking Up for Developing Nations

The South Centre has a special "observer status" at many important international meetings. This means they can attend discussions, share their views, and offer advice, even though they don't have a vote. This helps them speak up for the needs and interests of developing countries around the world.

They have observer status at major organizations like the United Nations General Assembly, the World Intellectual Property Organization, and the World Trade Organization. This allows them to influence decisions on topics like trade, climate change, and health.

Countries That Are Members

Member States of the South Centre

The South Centre has a group called the Council of Representatives. This council is made up of important people from each member country. They meet every year to check on the South Centre's work and give guidance.

Each country that joins the South Centre chooses a high-level person to represent them on this council. This person is usually someone known for helping the development of the South and promoting cooperation between these countries. The council also chooses a board and elects the chairperson of the South Centre.

As of 2017, 54 countries have officially joined the South Centre. Here is a list of these member states:

Some countries were members in the past but are no longer part of the South Centre:

•  Colombia (was a member from 1997 to 2007)
•  Serbia and Montenegro (was a member from 1996)