BRICS ALLIANCE COUNTRIES

The world stage is constantly shifting, and at the forefront of this change is the BRICS alliance. Significance and activities of the alliance. Currently, BRICS countries together account for about 30% of the world's land area, 45% of the global population, and one-third of the global GDP.What started as a simple acronym coined by an economist has blossomed into a powerful intergovernmental organization poised to reshape the global economic and political landscape.But what exactly is BRICS? Today, the alliance is sometimes referred to as BRICS. The overarching goal of BRICS is to create a system of transnational governance wherein countries of the Global South share equal representation in economic and political institutions historically controlled by Western nations.It's more than just a catchy name; it represents a coalition of nations challenging the established world order and seeking a more equitable distribution of power.This article delves into the heart of the BRICS alliance, exploring its origins, its current members, its ambitious expansion plans, and its potential impact on the future of international relations. Indeed, two BRICS nations have joined the group, as they have committed to dropping the US dollar in trade amid renewed de-dollarization efforts. US President Donald Trump has long been displeased with the alliance for this very reason.From its initial focus on economic cooperation to its growing ambition to provide alternatives to Western-dominated institutions like the World Bank, BRICS represents a significant force in the 21st century.Join us as we uncover the intricacies of this dynamic alliance and explore what it means for the future of global power.

The Origins and Evolution of BRICS

The story of BRICS begins with the term ""BRIC,"" coined in 2001 by Jim O'Neill, then chairman of Goldman Sachs. BRICS is an informal alliance that strives to foster collaboration and communication among its member nations rather than a formal organization or alliance with a legally binding contract.He used it to highlight the impressive economic growth of Brazil, Russia, India, and China.These four nations, despite their geographical distances and diverse cultures, shared a common trajectory of rapid development and increasing global influence.The initial BRIC nations started holding informal meetings, eventually leading to the first formal summit in 2009.

South Africa joined the group in 2010, officially forming BRICS. BRICS countries seek to build an alternative to what they see as the dominance of the Western viewpoint in major multilateral groupings, such as the World Bank, the Group of SevenThis addition added a crucial African perspective to the alliance, further solidifying its representation of the Global South.

The BRIC countries intensified their discussions primarily in the context of the global financial crisis. Explore the New BRICS countries, 2025 expansion plans, and which nations are next to join this powerful global alliance.It was clear the current global financial system was potentially unstable, and these countries agreed to come together to seek alternate solutions. This year's BRICS summit has kicked off in Johannesburg, South Africa, where world leaders are expected to discuss adding new members to the group. What is BRICS and why do countries want to join?The inclusion of South Africa was key to broadening the group's representation of developing nations.

Current BRICS Member Countries: A Detailed Overview

As of January 2025, the BRICS alliance comprises ten member states, showcasing its expanded reach and influence:

• Brazil: A South American powerhouse with a significant agricultural sector and a growing industrial base.
• Russia: A major global power with vast natural resources, particularly in energy.
• India: One of the world's fastest-growing economies with a large and dynamic population.
• China: The world's second-largest economy and a manufacturing and technological giant.
• South Africa: A key player in Africa, possessing significant mineral wealth and a strategic geographical location.
• Egypt: A North African nation with a strategic location and a growing economy.
• Ethiopia: A rapidly developing East African nation with a large population.
• Indonesia: A Southeast Asian archipelago with a large population and rich natural resources.
• Iran: A Middle Eastern nation with significant oil and gas reserves.
• United Arab Emirates: A wealthy Gulf nation with a strategic location and a focus on finance and tourism.

These nations collectively represent approximately 45% of the world's population, around 30% of the world's land area, and a significant portion of global GDP.This combined economic and demographic weight gives BRICS considerable influence on the world stage.

BRICS Expansion: The 2025 Additions and Beyond

The BRICS alliance is not static; it's a dynamic entity constantly evolving. BRICS is an informal group of states comprising the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Russian Federation, the Republic of India, the People's Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa. The growing economic might of BRICS countries, their significance as one of the main driving forces of global economic development, their substantial population and abundant natural resources form theThe August 2024 summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, marked a pivotal moment with the announcement of six new members to be added in January 2025.

The inclusion of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia broadens the alliance's geographical reach and diversifies its economic and political interests. Explore more about the BRICS countries by checking out the list of African countries, list of Asian countries, and list of developed countries. By opening its doors to new members, BRICS not only widens its economic reach but also brings in fresh geopolitical vibes, giving it a hand in global clashes, the money game, and the push for clean energy.This expansion demonstrates the growing appeal of the BRICS framework to nations seeking alternatives to the traditional Western-dominated global order.

Why are Countries Eager to Join BRICS?

The reasons for the increasing interest in joining BRICS are multifaceted:

• Economic Opportunities: BRICS offers access to new markets, investment opportunities, and potential for increased trade.
• Political Influence: Membership in BRICS provides a platform for increased global influence and a voice in shaping international policy.
• Alternatives to Western-Dominated Institutions: BRICS offers an alternative to the perceived dominance of Western institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
• De-dollarization: The BRICS alliance actively promotes the use of alternative currencies in international trade, offering a way for countries to reduce their dependence on the US dollar.

Many developing countries see the BRICS de-dollarization agenda as a potentially lucrative initiative to boost their native economies and strengthen their local currencies.The shift away from US dollar debt and towards other options such as RMB bonds is accelerating within BRICS nations.Concerns about global economic survival and the need for alternative financing options are driving this trend.

Potential Future Expansion: Countries Interested in Joining

Numerous countries have expressed interest in joining the BRICS alliance, highlighting its growing appeal and influence.Reports suggest that over 40 countries have formally or informally expressed interest.The list includes nations from Asia, Africa, South America, and Eastern Europe, demonstrating the global reach of the BRICS movement.Some notable examples often mentioned include:

• Algeria
• Argentina
• Bangladesh
• Belarus
• Kazakhstan
• Nigeria
• Senegal
• Thailand
• Venezuela

It is important to note that these countries are observer states that may not be officially part of the BRICS bloc, however they have expressed interest and generally receive support from existing BRICS members. BRICS is an intergovernmental organization comprising ten countries Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.These observer states prove themselves as partners before further integrating as a member.

The Goals and Objectives of the BRICS Alliance

The overarching goal of BRICS is to create a more balanced and equitable global order. The BRIC countries intensified their discussions in the context of the financial crisis. In 2025, BRICS Alliance for Green Tourism;This involves:

• Promoting Multilateralism: Advocating for a more inclusive and representative international system.
• Strengthening Economic Cooperation: Fostering trade, investment, and financial cooperation among member states.
• Challenging Western Hegemony: Providing an alternative to the perceived dominance of Western powers in global affairs.
• Supporting Sustainable Development: Promoting environmentally sustainable and socially responsible economic growth.

BRICS countries seek to build an alternative to what they perceive as the dominance of the Western viewpoint in major multilateral groupings, such as the World Bank and the Group of Seven (G7). The acronym BRICS describes an informal grouping of countries that, since the first decade of the 21st century, has developed into an intergovernmental organization consisting of 10 members.They are striving for a system of transnational governance wherein countries of the Global South share equal representation in economic and political institutions historically controlled by Western nations.

Key Initiatives and Achievements of BRICS

BRICS has launched several initiatives to achieve its goals, including:

• The New Development Bank (NDB): Established in 2015, the NDB provides funding for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other developing countries.It serves as an alternative to the World Bank and the IMF.
• The Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA): A mechanism for providing financial assistance to BRICS members facing balance of payments difficulties.
• Promoting Trade in National Currencies: Encouraging the use of local currencies in trade among BRICS members to reduce dependence on the US dollar.

These initiatives demonstrate the alliance's commitment to practical cooperation and its determination to create alternative financial and economic structures.

The Economic Power of BRICS: A Statistical Snapshot

The economic clout of BRICS is undeniable.Here are some key statistics:

• BRICS countries account for roughly one-third of global GDP.
• They represent a significant share of global trade and investment.
• They possess vast natural resources and a large and growing consumer market.

The growing economic might of BRICS countries, their significance as one of the main driving forces of global economic development, their substantial population, and abundant natural resources form the basis of their increasing global influence.

Geopolitical Significance of the BRICS Alliance

Beyond its economic power, BRICS also holds significant geopolitical weight. BRICS Countries List: This article explores the expansion of BRICS, tracing its journey from the initial four BRIC nations (Brazil, Russia, India and China) to the current ten-member BRICS group.The alliance represents a diverse range of perspectives and interests, providing a platform for dialogue and cooperation on global issues. The most important facts in brief. At its summit in August 2025, the BRICS alliance decided to expand by six countries as of January 2025. What does the inclusion of Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Egypt, and Ethiopia mean for the alliance's cohesion, economic power and geopolitical significance?BRICS countries are increasingly assertive in their foreign policy, advocating for a more multipolar world order and challenging the dominance of Western powers.

By opening its doors to new members, BRICS widens its economic reach and brings in fresh geopolitical perspectives, giving it a hand in global clashes, financial strategies, and the push for clean energy. BRICS is set for historic growth in 2025, with 44 countries expressing interest in joining the alliance. This expansion, to be discussed at the July summit in Brazil, could accelerate de-dollarization and reshape the global economic landscape, positioning BRICS as a leading force among emerging economies.This expansion also brings new challenges, as the alliance must navigate the diverse interests and priorities of its members to maintain cohesion and effectiveness.

The BRICS Challenge to the US Dollar and Western Economic Dominance

One of the most significant aspects of the BRICS alliance is its challenge to the dominance of the US dollar and Western economic institutions. The BRICS alliance has catalyzed a significant shift away from US dollar debt and toward RMB bonds, and at the same time, Japan buys Russian oil despite various major international sanctions. This represents an accelerated currency shift within BRICS nations, spearheaded by concerns over global economic survival and the need for alternative financing options through RMB bonds adoption.The BRICS countries are actively promoting the use of alternative currencies in international trade and investment, seeking to reduce their dependence on the US dollar and diminish its global influence.

This de-dollarization effort is driven by several factors, including concerns about the US's economic policies, the weaponization of the dollar through sanctions, and the desire for greater financial autonomy.The BRICS-led New Development Bank (NDB) is also providing an alternative source of funding for developing countries, reducing their reliance on Western-dominated institutions like the World Bank and the IMF.

It is worth noting that even countries that are not officially part of BRICS are making decisions that align with this de-dollarization trend. The BRICS is currently composed of eleven countries: its five original members Brasil, China, India, Russia, and South Africa -, and six new members admitted in - Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.As one example, Japan buys Russian oil despite major international sanctions.

Criticisms and Challenges Facing the BRICS Alliance

Despite its growing influence, the BRICS alliance faces several criticisms and challenges:

• Internal Disagreements: Divergent interests and priorities among member states can hinder cooperation and decision-making.
• Economic Disparities: Significant differences in economic development levels among BRICS members can create tensions and imbalances.
• Geopolitical Rivalries: Historical and territorial disputes among some BRICS members can complicate cooperation on certain issues.
• Lack of Institutional Capacity: The BRICS alliance lacks the institutional capacity and resources of established international organizations like the UN and the World Bank.

Addressing these challenges will be crucial for the long-term success and effectiveness of the BRICS alliance. Developing countries are finding the BRICS de-dollarization agenda lucrative as the initiative can boost their native economies and local currencies. While many countries from Asia, South America, and Eastern Europe have expressed their interest in joining the BRICS alliance, African nations are putting in effort to join too.Ensuring internal cohesion, promoting inclusive growth, and building robust institutional structures are essential for realizing the alliance's full potential.

BRICS Plus: Expanding the Circle of Influence

The ""BRICS Plus"" concept involves expanding the BRICS network to include other emerging economies and developing countries. These countries are observer states that are not yet officially part of the BRICS bloc, yet would get support from BRICS members. These observer states prove themselves as partners before further integrating as a member, similar to the accession process of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization .This approach aims to broaden the alliance's reach and influence, creating a more inclusive and representative platform for global cooperation. The BRICS Plus countries The original 5 BRICS states are an association of the countries Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The abbreviation consists of the first letters of each country's name. On Janu, the 5 countries Iran, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Ethiopia joined the alliance.The BRICS Plus initiative can involve various forms of engagement, such as:

• Inviting guest countries to BRICS summits and meetings
• Establishing partnerships with regional organizations and groupings
• Promoting joint projects and initiatives with other developing countries

By expanding its circle of influence through BRICS Plus, the alliance seeks to strengthen its position as a leading force in the emerging multipolar world.

BRICS Alliance for Green Tourism in 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, one area of particular focus for the BRICS alliance is BRICS Alliance for Green Tourism. Brics countries include major world powers, such as China and Russia, and countries which are influential on their continent, such as South Africa and Brazil. The expanded group has aRecognizing the importance of sustainable development, BRICS is promoting initiatives to foster environmentally responsible tourism practices among its member states and beyond.This includes:

• Developing eco-friendly tourism infrastructure
• Promoting responsible tourism behaviors among travelers
• Supporting community-based tourism initiatives
• Sharing best practices and expertise in sustainable tourism

By prioritizing green tourism, BRICS aims to contribute to environmental conservation, promote economic development, and enhance cultural exchange in a sustainable and responsible manner.

The Future of BRICS: A Reshaped Global Landscape?

The BRICS alliance is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the 21st century.Its growing economic power, its increasing geopolitical influence, and its commitment to creating a more balanced and equitable global order are reshaping the international landscape.While challenges remain, the BRICS alliance has the potential to play a significant role in shaping the future of global governance, trade, and development.

The July 2025 summit in Brazil will be a crucial test for the alliance, as it seeks to consolidate its expanded membership, address internal challenges, and chart a course for future cooperation.The success of BRICS will depend on its ability to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world and to build a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.

Conclusion

The BRICS alliance represents a significant shift in the global balance of power.From its humble beginnings as an economic concept to its current status as a powerful intergovernmental organization, BRICS has come a long way.With its expanded membership, ambitious goals, and growing influence, BRICS is poised to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the world.Key takeaways include: the importance of economic cooperation, the potential for de-dollarization, and the growing influence of emerging economies on the global stage.As the world becomes more multipolar, understanding the BRICS alliance is crucial for navigating the complexities of the 21st century.