Welcome (Back) to Global South

August 31, 2023

Welcome (Back) to Global South

After two years of living in the bustling and vibing London, I find myself back in Montenegro – the heart of Europe, a land of promise stuck in the cycle of tiresome debates about politics and divisive nationalism. From political elites to common people, these toxic narratives monopolise the spotlight, contributing to stagnation, if not regression.

As I delve into UN statistics showing an increase in the Human Development Index (HDI) value between 2003 and 2021, I question whether progress is genuine or merely a rebound from the depths of civil war and sanctions in the 90s. The collective memory of a stable Yugoslavia, paired with aspirations to join the EU, fuels dreams of prosperity, yet the lack of effective governance remains a stumbling block.

Ironically, the reality on the ground reveals a populace sceptical of innovation, hesitant to deviate from the norm. This scepticism, I believe, stems from political and economic instability that is deepening inequalities. Adding to the paradox, people turn to fervent worship, pouring their limited resources into a proliferation of churches that multiply like mushrooms after rain, exacerbating the disparity in funding for essential institutions such as schools and hospitals.

What deeply concerns me, however, is the evident lack of a well-defined strategic vision and social cohesion embraced by all leaders, capable of steering our nation towards a future of shared prosperity. Such a vision should not only encourage a shift in mindset, urging us to perceive obstacles as opportunities for progress but also demand accountability from every individual, irrespective of their social standing.

Then there’s the elephant in the room – the selfishness and greed of a select few who hold the reins of power. These politicians prioritise their own re-election prospects and govern through the lens of populism, a short-sighted approach we know is unsustainable in the long run. It’s like they’ve tainted the soil, making us doubt if sustainable governance that truly benefits all of us is even possible in our lifetime. It’s a bitter pill to swallow, seeing potential squandered for short-term gains.

The situation takes an interesting – or rather troubling – turn when we realise Montenegro is not an isolated case. This narrative echoes across the Global South. Different faces, distinct languages, yet identical struggles persist – nations grappling with disparity, where ordinary citizens strive to make ends meet while their leaders strike self-serving deals that yield immediate benefits. It’s like we’re all swimming in murky waters, grappling with the shared challenges and frustrations.

Dreamers who dare to envision progress amidst the chaos find themselves standing on an uncertain precipice, caught between the yearning for change and the harsh reality of entrenched systems resistant to it. Frustration with the neverending obstacles leads to an inevitable brain drain as a consequence.

Montenegro is not an isolated case, this narrative echoes across the Global South.

A significant number of well-educated and progressive thinkers, fueled by the relentless pursuit of a conducive environment for their ideas to thrive, find themselves yearning for an escape. The allure of developed countries in the West, with their promises of innovation, inclusivity, and opportunities, has become increasingly irresistible.

These individuals, often the very catalysts for change, contemplate leaving their homelands in search of a more fertile ground for their aspirations. It’s a sobering realisation that, despite the richness of talent and potential within our nations, the structural and systemic barriers seem insurmountable. This silent exodus not only depletes our intellectual capital but also leaves a void in the transformative potential that these thinkers could have brought to the homeland.

The question that looms large is this: In the face of such challenges, where the brightest minds are compelled to seek refuge elsewhere, can our nations truly break free from the shackles of stagnation and create a conducive environment for growth and prosperity? Is there a way to reverse the brain drain and foster an ecosystem that nurtures innovation, embraces diversity, and values the contributions of those who dream of a better future at home?

As the Global South witnesses a haemorrhage of intellectual resources, the urgency to address the root causes becomes more apparent. Can we, as a collective society, challenge the status quo, dismantle the barriers that stifle progress, and create a welcoming environment for those who wish to contribute to the development of their nations? The answer may very well shape the trajectory of our societies in the years to come.

A Kind Reminder: While the challenges outlined above paint a sobering picture of the current state of affairs in Montenegro and other developing countries, please note that I do remain optimistic about the potential for positive change. My intention is not to dwell solely on the negative aspects but to spark dialogue and awareness. In the next discussions, I look forward to exploring potential solutions, highlighting success stories, and discussing strategies to foster a more optimistic outlook for the future. It’s through collective efforts and a commitment to progress that we can overcome the existing challenges and build a brighter tomorrow.