A New T20 for the Win

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(Source: The Indian Express, Editorial Page)

Also Read: The Indian Express Editorial Analysis: 10 June 2025
Also Read: The Hindu Editorial Analysis: 10 June 2025

Topic: GS Paper 2: International Relations, Global Groupings, Global Terrorism
Context
  • In light of the persistent threat of state-sponsored terrorism, especially from Pakistan-based groups, and the ineffectiveness of existing Western-dominated counter-terror institutions, the editorial advocates for a new “T20” coalition—Twenty Against Terrorism—led by India and representing Global South nations.

Need for an Alternative Security Architecture:

  • Existing global institutions such as the UN, FATF, and GCTF have been slow, selective, or ineffective in acting against state sponsors of terror.

  • India’s security interests are undermined by procedural delays and geopolitical biases within these forums.

Concept of the T20 Coalition:

  • Proposed as a grouping of 20 like-minded nations from the Global South to fight terrorism.

  • Would prioritize intelligence sharing, counter-terror financing, cyber defense, and coordinated legal frameworks.

  • Inspired by India’s success in pushing economic narratives like BRICS and the International Solar Alliance.

India’s Leadership Role:

  • India has consistently raised terrorism as a core issue in multilateral platforms like the UNGA, SCO, and G20.

  • Operations like Balakot and the recent Operation Sindoor have strengthened India’s credentials as a proactive security actor.

  • India’s strategic diplomacy with nations like UAE, Saudi Arabia, and ASEAN positions it to lead such a forum.

Challenges and Criticism:

  • May be perceived as a regional or anti-Western initiative unless inclusively designed.

  • Requires careful diplomacy to avoid antagonizing existing institutions.

  • Need to ensure that the platform is not limited to rhetoric but enforces accountability.

Way Forward:

  • Begin informal consultations with countries already aligned on security (e.g., Egypt, Brazil, Indonesia, South Africa).
  • Draft a charter focusing on capacity building, real-time information exchange, and global cyber defense.
  • Use India’s G20 experience and current SCO chairmanship to mobilize support.

Comparison Between Existing Global Terror Platforms and Proposed T20 Coalition:

Issue Existing Institutions Proposed T20 Features
Response Time to Terror Events Slow, procedural delays (e.g., UN designations) Real-time intelligence and rapid response
Bias and Geopolitical Interests Western dominance, selective actions Global South leadership, inclusive decision-making
Scope of Actions Focus on sanctions and naming Cyber defense, financing disruption, tech sharing
Representation Primarily developed nations Emerging powers from Asia, Africa, Latin America
India’s Leverage Limited impact despite lobbying Leadership role with operational credibility
Practice Question: India should lead the formation of a new global counter-terrorism alliance rooted in Global South solidarity.” Discuss the feasibility and structure of a ‘T20 against Terror’ coalition in this context. (GS Paper 2 – 15 Marks – 250 Words)

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