Rise of BRICS & Global Power Shift
The BRICS alliance—originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—has undergone significant transformation in 2024 and 2025, marking a pivotal shift in global power dynamics. This period has seen the bloc's expansion, increased economic influence, and a concerted effort to challenge Western-dominated institutions, signaling a move toward a more multipolar world order.
1. BRICS Expansion: Broadening Horizons
In 2024 and early 2025, BRICS expanded its membership, welcoming Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates in January 2024. Indonesia officially joined as the 10th member on January 6, 2025, becoming the first Southeast Asian nation in the bloc . Additionally, nine countries, including Nigeria, were accepted as partner nations, bringing the total representation to nearly half of the global population and over 41% of the world's GDP (PPP) . ([PDF] Expansion of BRICS - European Parliament, BRICS - Wikipedia, BRICS expands with new partner countries. Now it's half of world ...)
This expansion reflects BRICS's strategy to amplify its global influence by incorporating emerging economies from diverse regions, thereby enhancing its geopolitical and economic clout.
2. Economic Strategies: Challenging the Status Quo
a. De-Dollarization Efforts
A central theme in BRICS's recent initiatives is reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar. Member countries have increasingly conducted bilateral trade in local currencies; for instance, Russia reported that 90% of its transactions with BRICS nations in 2024 were in local currencies . While discussions about a common BRICS currency have been tabled, the focus remains on strengthening financial systems that operate independently of Western influence. (Los BRICS debaten en Brasil su respuesta a la guerra arancelaria declarada por Trump)
b. Trade and Investment Initiatives
BRICS nations are actively pursuing trade agreements and investment opportunities within the bloc. The UAE, for example, views its membership as a strategic move to diversify its economy and expand trade networks . Such collaborations aim to create a more balanced global economic landscape, reducing the dominance of traditional Western economies. (BRICS Expansion and the Future of World Order: Perspectives from ...)
3. Political Cohesion Amidst Diversity
Despite the diversity in political systems and economic structures among BRICS members, the bloc has shown a commitment to unity on key global issues. During the 2025 foreign ministers' meeting in Rio de Janeiro, members expressed collective concern over unilateral trade measures and emphasized the importance of multilateralism . However, internal differences occasionally hinder the formation of unified statements, highlighting the challenges of maintaining cohesion in a diverse group. (BRICS nations discuss shared response to Trump trade policies)
4. Geopolitical Implications: Redefining Global Alliances
The expansion and assertiveness of BRICS have significant implications for global geopolitics. As the U.S. adopts more isolationist policies under President Donald Trump, BRICS countries are positioning themselves as defenders of a multilateral world order . This shift challenges the traditional dominance of Western alliances and suggests a redistribution of global power. (China and Brics will 'defend' global order as Trump withdraws, Brazil says)
Moreover, BRICS's engagement in global issues, such as advocating for diplomatic solutions in conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza, underscores its growing role in international diplomacy .
5. Challenges and the Road Ahead
While BRICS's ambitions are clear, the bloc faces several challenges:
- Internal Diversity: Differences in political ideologies and economic priorities can impede consensus-building.
- Global Perception: As BRICS seeks to reshape global norms, it must navigate skepticism from established powers and ensure its initiatives are inclusive and equitable.
- Institutional Development: Building robust institutions that can support the bloc's objectives is crucial for long-term success.
Despite these challenges, BRICS's trajectory suggests a continued push toward a more balanced global order, with emerging economies playing a more prominent role in shaping international policies and frameworks.
Note: For a more detailed analysis or specific aspects of the BRICS alliance and its global impact, further research and consultation of specialized sources are recommended.
