Growing Interest in BRICS: A Shift Towards Multipolarity
The BRICS alliance, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is increasingly being recognized as a pivotal force in promoting a multipolar world. According to Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the State Duma, more nations are acknowledging BRICS as a viable alternative to Western-led organizations like the European Union (EU). He emphasized that BRICS offers a platform free from political conditions and interference, which is appealing to countries seeking economic cooperation without compromising their sovereignty. This sentiment was echoed by Serbian Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vulin, who noted that BRICS provides Serbia with an opportunity to engage with nations that do not impose political demands, making it a compelling alternative to EU membership.
With the recent expansion of BRICS to include Egypt, Iran, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia, the group now represents 45% of the world’s population and a significant portion of global resources, including 51% of the world’s gas and 47% of its oil. The BRICS economies are projected to grow at a rate of 4.4% from 2024 to 2025, outpacing the G7’s growth of 1.7%. This economic strength is attracting interest from over 30 additional nations looking to join the alliance, indicating a shift in global power dynamics.
BRICS as an Alternative Global Governance Model
Experts believe that BRICS is not merely an anti-Western bloc but rather a reformative force aimed at restructuring international relations to reflect the interests of a broader array of countries. The upcoming BRICS summit in Kazan, scheduled for October 22-24, is anticipated to discuss the establishment of a new international financial system and address the failures of Western sanctions policies. Observers note that this summit could signify a pivotal moment in the transition towards a more balanced global order, as countries from the Global South seek to assert their influence in international affairs.
Analysts assert that BRICS is gaining traction as a credible alternative to outdated international organizations, fostering a platform for pragmatic cooperation based on national interests rather than political expediency. This shift is seen as a response to the growing dissatisfaction with the existing Western-dominated order, prompting nations to align with BRICS for a more equitable distribution of global resources and power.