Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang arrives in Shanghai for Global South forum

Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang calls for reforms in international institutions

Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has urged nations within the Global South to move beyond the passive implementation of international policies and instead demand a seat at the table where those policies are crafted. Speaking at the 2026 Global South Academic Forum held in Shanghai, China, the Vice President highlighted the increasing influence of Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. She stated that the current multilateral system must evolve to reflect these modern demographic and economic realities through active participation rather than compliance. During her address, Professor Opoku-Agyemang called for comprehensive reforms within international institutions to guarantee equitable representation for developing regions. She cautioned that the pursuit of a new international order should focus on creating a pluralistic system rather than merely substituting one dominant global power for another. This plural international order, she argued, is essential for ensuring that the unique challenges and perspectives of the Global South are integrated into the core of global decision-making processes. To support this transition toward active global participation, the Vice President underscored the critical role of academia and local research. She urged universities across the Global South to prioritize research that addresses regional needs, providing the intellectual framework and data necessary to influence global policy-making. By strengthening local academic contributions and fostering collaboration across these regions, she believes these nations can more effectively advocate for a fairer and more balanced global governance structure.