Raisina Dialogue: Significance and issues

Source-This post on Raisina Dialogue: Significance and issues has been created based on the article “At the high table” published in “The Hindu” on 24 February 2024.

Syllabus-GS Paper 2 – International Relations – Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

News– Recently, the 9th edition of the Raisina Dialogue 2024 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Raisina Dialogue Significance and issues 

What is Raisina Dialogue?

The Raisina Dialogue is an annual conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, which aims to address the most challenging issues faced by the world. The conference takes place in New Delhi and is attended by people from political, business, media, and civil society backgrounds.

Delhi-based think tank Observer Research Foundation, in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs, hosts the conference.

What is the significance of Raisina Dialogue for India?

1) A Platform for dialogue-It provides opportunities for India to have dialogue and discussion on key regional and global issues.

2) “Vishwamitra” or friend of the world –It reflect Indias commitment and aspiration to be a leading voice and contributor in the international arena by mutual cooperation.

3) Uphold rule-based order- It demonstrates India’s commitment to a rules-based and inclusive world order.

4) Advancing national interest-The platform provides opportunities to showcase India’s achievements and potential in various fields and advancing its strategic and economic interest.

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What are the issues with the recently held Raisina dialogue?

1) Agenda dominated by European Interests-There was a great focus on Russia-Ukraine war during Raisina dialogue. Other important issues like Israel war on Gaza and agenda of Global South, were not adequately discussed.

2) Lack of balance-The European dignitaries have raised issue of Chinese and Russian aggressive posturing. However, neither Russia nor China was invited.

3) Lack of diversity– There was minimal presence from Southeast Asia, Latin America, and even South Asia (excepting Nepal and Bhutan).

4) Under representation of civil societies– There was lack of adequate representation of non-governmental civil society organizations in the discourse.

Conclusion-The Raisina dialogue should cover more issues and hitherto neglected regions to make it a more effective platform for discussion on global issues.