IS BRICS AN ALLIANCE

Last updated: June 19, 2025, 18:58 | Written by: Jesse Powell

The term BRICS has become increasingly prominent in global discourse, often mentioned in discussions about shifting economic power and international relations. Gustavo de Carvalho from the South African Institute of International Affairs described BRICS as a fairly loose group, it is not an alliance, it's not a trade bloc .But is BRICS an alliance in the traditional sense? BRICS is an intergovernmental organization comprising ten countries Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.It's more complex than a simple yes or no. En effet, selon elle, les BRICS ne sont plus aujourd'hui une simple alliance conomique, mais bel et bien un groupe de puissances dont les ambitions sont devenues politiques, notamment celle de concurrencer les grandes institutions internationales occidentales.BRICS, an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (now significantly expanded), started as a term coined by Goldman Sachs to identify emerging economies with high growth potential. The BRICS countries led by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa are actively working to reduce their reliance on the U.S. dollar in international trade, a process known as deToday, it represents a formal intergovernmental organization boasting ten member nations, with more eager to join.Its rapid expansion, particularly with the inclusion of countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates, has sparked debates about its true purpose and future direction. BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. This year, the group has expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.It's a forum for political and diplomatic coordination, aiming to give the Global South a stronger voice.It is actively promoting socioeconomic development and technological innovation on an international scale. BRICS is an acronym for the combined economies of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, which some claimed early in this century were poised to dominate the world economy by 2025.Is it a cohesive unit with shared geopolitical goals, or a more loosely connected group of nations seeking to reshape the global order? With the addition of Iran, the UAE and potentially Saudi Arabia, the BRICS group could control nearly half of oil production worldwide and account for an estimated 35% of total oil consumption, according to an analysis by S P Global. With Saudi onboard the BRICS grouping would be a commodities powerhouse, the report states.This article delves deep into the nature of BRICS, exploring its origins, objectives, internal dynamics, and its growing influence on the world stage.

The Evolution of BRICS: From Economic Concept to Geopolitical Force

The BRICS story began not as a political alliance, but as an economic observation. The BRICS alliance is no longer just a headline. It is a wake-up call. With new members joining, more countries lining up to apply, and a growing push to reduce reliance on the dollar, the balance of global power is shifting quietly but steadily.In the early 2000s, economist Jim O'Neill at Goldman Sachs identified Brazil, Russia, India, and China as countries with exceptionally high economic growth rates, projecting that they would collectively dominate the world economy by 2050.The term ""BRIC"" was coined to represent these emerging powerhouses. BRICS power shift has catalyzed a critical turning point as the expanded alliance now includes Saudi Arabia, Iran, UAE, Egypt, and also Ethiopia as full members. The BRICS bloc has revolutionized global energy control, commanding over 40% of global oil production and has actually surpassed the G7 in purchasing power parity GDP.South Africa was later added in 2010, completing the BRICS acronym.

Initially, the BRICS countries focused on economic cooperation, sharing experiences, and exploring opportunities for mutual growth. Johannesburg, South Africa The BRICS bloc of top emerging economies have taken a major step in expanding its reach and influence with the announcement that six more nations have been invitedThey recognized the potential for collaboration and saw themselves as a counterweight to the established economic powers.As the group matured, its ambitions expanded beyond economics to include political and diplomatic coordination. AUTONOMOUS NON-COMMERCIAL ORGANIZATION INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF BRICS STRATEGIC PROJECTS is an organization that implements initiatives and decisions taken within the association. The main objectives of the Alliance are to promote international socio-economic development, the introduction of social and technological innovations and theThis shift led to the formation of a formal intergovernmental organization, solidifying BRICS's position on the global stage.

Key Milestones in BRICS Development:

Early 2000s: Goldman Sachs coins the term ""BRIC.""
2009: First BRIC summit held in Russia.
2010: South Africa joins, forming BRICS.
2015: New Development Bank (NDB) established.
2024: Major expansion with new member states: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.

BRICS Objectives: A Shared Vision for a Multipolar World

The stated objectives of BRICS are multifaceted, reflecting the diverse interests of its member states. The BRICS group of major emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - will hold its 15th heads of state and government summit in Johannesburg between Aug. 22 and Aug. 24.At its core, BRICS aims to promote a more equitable and balanced global order. Iran was the surprise among the countries invited to join the bloc of emerging economies. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Argentina and Ethiopia were also tapped.Here are some of the primary objectives of the organization:

Strengthening Economic Cooperation: Fostering trade, investment, and financial ties among member states.This includes initiatives like the New Development Bank (NDB), which provides funding for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS countries and other emerging economies.
Reforming Global Governance: Advocating for greater representation and influence for developing countries in international institutions such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).The BRICS nations believe that the current global governance structures are outdated and do not adequately reflect the changing global landscape.
Promoting Multilateralism: Championing a multipolar world order, where power is distributed among multiple centers, rather than concentrated in a single hegemonic power. The last time the BRICS expanded was in 2025, when South Africa joined, adding an S to the acronym, one year after the creation of the block. Currently, it represents around 40% of the world'sThis involves promoting dialogue and cooperation among different regions and cultures.
Addressing Global Challenges: Working together to address global challenges such as climate change, poverty, terrorism, and pandemics. As BRICS grows in both membership and global sway, its expansion comes with divisions among its members old and new on how to set the stage for a revised world order. BRICS leaders pose beforeThis requires coordinated efforts and a shared commitment to finding solutions.
Supporting Sustainable Development: Promoting sustainable development practices and investing in green technologies to ensure long-term economic and environmental well-being.This includes initiatives to promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture.

New Development Bank (NDB): A Concrete Example of BRICS Cooperation

One of the most tangible examples of BRICS cooperation is the establishment of the New Development Bank (NDB), also known as the BRICS Bank.Founded in 2015, the NDB aims to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS countries and other emerging economies. The BRICS is a group formed by eleven countries: Brasil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran. It serves as a political and diplomatic coordination forum for countries from the Global South and for coordination in the most diverse areas.This institution is seen as an alternative to the World Bank and IMF, which are often criticized for imposing conditionalities on their loans.

The NDB has approved numerous projects across various sectors, including renewable energy, transportation, water management, and urban development. D nomination L'ancienne d nomination BRICS est due la grande banque am ricaine Goldman Sachs, qui a attest aux 4 pays mergents d'origine, le Br sil, la Russie, l'Inde et la Chine, des taux de croissance exceptionnels de plus de 5% par an. Pour les investisseurs internationaux, ce sont surtout les pays industrialis s qui sont int ressants.These projects aim to address critical infrastructure gaps and promote sustainable economic growth in developing countries. AIPS BRICS est une organisation qui met en uvre des initiatives et des d cisions adopt es dans le cadre de l association. Les principales t ches de l alliance sont de promouvoir le d veloppement socio- conomique international, l introduction des innovations sociales et technologiques et le d veloppement de la s curit internationale.The bank's focus on local currency financing is another key feature, reducing the dependence on the US dollar and mitigating exchange rate risks for borrowers. Forum des affaires des BRICS; Conseil des affaires des BRICS; Alliance des femmes d affaires des BRICS; R seau de recherche sur le commerce et l conomie des BRICS; Groupe de travail des BRICS sur les partenariats public-priv et les infrastructures; Alliance des BRICS pour le tourisme vert; Initiatives technologiques:The NDB has its headquarters in Shanghai, China.

Internal Divisions and Challenges within BRICS

While BRICS shares a common vision of a more multipolar world, internal divisions and challenges exist. Les Brics visent donner aux pays en d veloppement un plus grand poids dans la gouvernance mondiale. L'Afrique du Sud, qui en assure actuellement la pr sidence, affirme que 40 pays souhaitentThese differences can hinder the organization's ability to act decisively and effectively on the global stage.

Economic Disparities: The BRICS countries have vastly different economic sizes and levels of development. Predictions about the BRICS countries as the fastest growing economies haven't quite panned out. Instead, the alliance is now offering a diplomatic forum and development financing, outside of theChina is by far the largest economy in the group, while South Africa is the smallest.These disparities can lead to conflicting priorities and interests.
Geopolitical Rivalries: Some BRICS countries have geopolitical rivalries that can complicate cooperation.For example, India and China have a long-standing border dispute, which has occasionally led to tensions.
Divergent Foreign Policy Interests: The BRICS countries have different foreign policy priorities and alliances.Some are closer to the West, while others are more aligned with Russia or China.
Governance and Transparency: Concerns have been raised about governance and transparency within the BRICS framework.Some critics argue that the organization lacks accountability and democratic processes.

The 2024 Expansion: A Game Changer or a Recipe for Discord?

The 2024 expansion of BRICS, with the inclusion of Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates, marks a significant turning point in the organization's history. The BRICS, a bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has in its short existence rapidly expanded its diplomatic activities, advocated a larger voice in global economic andThis expansion has the potential to strengthen BRICS's economic and political influence, but it also introduces new challenges.

Potential Benefits of the Expansion:

Increased Economic Clout: The addition of major oil producers like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the UAE significantly enhances BRICS's energy resources.
Expanded Geopolitical Reach: The inclusion of countries from different regions of the world strengthens BRICS's global presence and influence.
Greater Diversity of Perspectives: The expansion brings a wider range of perspectives and experiences to the BRICS table, which can lead to more innovative solutions to global challenges.

Potential Challenges of the Expansion:

Increased Complexity: Managing a larger and more diverse group of countries can be more challenging.The expanded BRICS needs to develop effective mechanisms for decision-making and coordination.
Potential for Internal Conflicts: The new member states have different interests and priorities, which could lead to internal conflicts and disagreements.
Risk of Dilution: Some observers worry that the expansion could dilute the original focus and purpose of BRICS.

De-Dollarization: A BRICS Strategy to Challenge US Dominance

One of the key strategic objectives of BRICS is to reduce its reliance on the US dollar in international trade, a process known as de-dollarization.This effort is driven by a desire to reduce the vulnerability of BRICS countries to US economic policies and sanctions. The initiative of establishing the BRICS Women s Business Alliance was proposed by Russia at the First International Women s Congress of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the BRICS member states on J. In the framework of the Russia s BRICS Chairship, the Inaugural Meeting of the BRICS WBA took place on J.It is also a part of a broader goal to promote a more multipolar financial system.

Several initiatives have been launched to promote de-dollarization, including:

Promoting the use of local currencies in trade: Encouraging BRICS countries to trade with each other in their own currencies, rather than using the US dollar.
Developing alternative payment systems: Creating alternative payment systems that bypass the US-dominated SWIFT network.
Increasing the role of the NDB: Using the NDB to provide financing in local currencies.

De-dollarization is a long-term process that faces significant challenges. BRICS, informal grouping of countries that has developed into an intergovernmental organization. The term BRICS originally denoted a collection of countries experiencing rapid economic growth that would, if growth were maintained at similar rates, emerge as the dominant economic players of the 21st century.The US dollar remains the dominant currency in international trade and finance, and it is difficult to displace its entrenched position.However, the BRICS countries are committed to pursuing this objective, and their efforts could gradually lead to a more diversified global financial system.

BRICS vs. the West: Competition or Cooperation?

The rise of BRICS has often been framed as a challenge to the established Western powers, particularly the United States and Europe.Some observers see BRICS as a rival bloc seeking to undermine the existing global order. Saudi Arabia has joined Brics, the alliance of major developing countries, along with four other nations. The Saudi membership was due to start on 1 January, but there was a delay before it wasOthers believe that BRICS can play a constructive role in promoting a more inclusive and equitable world.

While there are certainly elements of competition between BRICS and the West, there is also potential for cooperation. IASP BRICS is an organization that implements initiatives and decisions taken within the association. The main objectives of the Alliance are to promote international socio-economic development, the introduction of social and technological innovations and the development of international securityBRICS countries share many of the same goals as Western countries, such as promoting economic growth, combating terrorism, and addressing climate change.Cooperation on these issues could benefit both BRICS and the West.

The relationship between BRICS and the West is likely to be complex and multifaceted. A summit of the BRICS countries held in the Russian city of Kazan in October was a slap in the face for Western nations which imposed sanctions on Russia, the CEO of Russia's second largest lenderIt will involve elements of both competition and cooperation, depending on the issue at hand.

The Future of BRICS: Scenarios and Predictions

The future of BRICS is uncertain, but several scenarios are possible.These scenarios depend on a range of factors, including the evolution of the global economy, the internal dynamics of BRICS, and the relationship between BRICS and the West.

Scenario 1: Continued Growth and Influence: BRICS continues to grow and expand its influence on the global stage.It becomes a major force in shaping the global economy and international relations.
Scenario 2: Stagnation and Decline: BRICS faces internal challenges and external pressures that prevent it from realizing its full potential.Its influence gradually declines.
Scenario 3: Transformation and Adaptation: BRICS adapts to the changing global landscape and transforms itself into a more effective and relevant organization.It focuses on specific areas of cooperation and works closely with other international actors.

Which scenario is most likely to occur is difficult to predict.However, the future of BRICS will depend on the ability of its member states to overcome their internal divisions, adapt to the changing global landscape, and pursue a clear and coherent vision.

BRICS: An Alliance or a Forum for Cooperation?A Definitive Answer

So, is BRICS an alliance?While the organization has evolved significantly since its inception, it is more accurately described as a forum for cooperation rather than a traditional alliance.Gustavo de Carvalho from the South African Institute of International Affairs aptly describes it as ""a fairly loose group, it's not an alliance, it's not a trade bloc."" Alliances typically involve legally binding agreements, mutual defense commitments, and a high degree of political and military integration.BRICS, on the other hand, is characterized by:

Voluntary Participation: Member states participate in BRICS initiatives on a voluntary basis.There are no legally binding obligations to follow a common policy or strategy.
Limited Military Cooperation: BRICS does not have a formal military alliance or mutual defense pact.Cooperation in the security sphere is limited to information sharing and joint exercises.
Focus on Economic and Developmental Issues: The primary focus of BRICS is on economic and developmental issues, such as trade, investment, infrastructure, and sustainable development.
Respect for Sovereignty: BRICS emphasizes respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its member states.It does not interfere in the internal affairs of its members.

While BRICS has a shared vision of a more multipolar world and advocates for reforms in global governance, it is not a cohesive bloc with a unified foreign policy agenda.The member states have diverse interests and priorities, and they often pursue their own national interests independently.Therefore, characterizing BRICS as a traditional alliance would be inaccurate.

Conclusion: BRICS's Enduring Significance

In conclusion, BRICS is not an alliance in the classic military or political sense.It functions as a crucial platform for cooperation and coordination among emerging economies, aiming to reshape the global order and provide a stronger voice to the Global South.The expansion of BRICS reflects its growing influence and attractiveness as an alternative to traditional Western-dominated institutions.Despite internal divisions and challenges, BRICS has achieved significant milestones, such as the establishment of the New Development Bank, and is actively pursuing de-dollarization initiatives.As BRICS continues to evolve, its impact on the global landscape will undoubtedly increase.Key takeaways:

BRICS is an intergovernmental organization, not a traditional alliance.
It aims to promote a more equitable and multipolar world.
Economic cooperation and development are key priorities.
Internal divisions and challenges exist, but the organization continues to grow.
The expansion of BRICS has the potential to reshape global power dynamics.

The future trajectory of BRICS remains uncertain, but its enduring significance in the evolving global landscape is undeniable.Its impact on the international stage will continue to be closely watched.Whether you are an economist, a policymaker, or simply a curious observer, understanding the nature and dynamics of BRICS is essential for navigating the complexities of the 21st century.