BRICS: A Leading Voice for Global South
Are we witnessing a shift in the tides of global power in 2024? A new power is emerging as the globe struggles with geopolitical and economic changes: the BRICS countries. The G7’s long-standing supremacy is being challenged by a powerful group that has emerged: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. What distinguishes this combination, though?
#BRICS Family Photo 🇧🇷🇷🇺🇮🇳🇨🇳🇿🇦
Leaders Retreat#BRICSSummit2023 #BetterAfricaBetterWorld 🌍 pic.twitter.com/wn9ZCVwc3d
— Presidency | South Africa 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) August 22, 2023
Are the BRICS nations laying the groundwork for a more representative and inclusive global order? Come along as we explore the fascinating story: A Principal Voice for the Developing World.
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What is BRICS?
Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa are the five main emerging economies that form the formidable coalition called BRICS. Through this strategic brics alliance, the Global South’s interests will be represented internationally, cooperation will be encouraged, and global economic dynamics will be reshaped.
Shifting the Global Landscape
Over the last twenty years, there has been a significant shift in the global economic and geopolitical landscape. The rise of the countries has strongly challenged the G7’s long-standing supremacy. At the 15th annual BRICS summit, which is being held in Johannesburg, South Africa, the countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) gathered to explore possible bloc expansion.
Challenging the G7 Dominance
For a considerable time, the G7 countries—United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and Japan—have held sway in global economic governance. However, the BRICS nations rapid economic expansion has propelled them into roles of greater influence and ambition.
#BRICS & #G7 share of world GDP (PPP)
➡️1980
BRICS: 15%
G7: 52%
➡️2015
BRICS: 31%
G7: 31%
➡️2020
BRICS: 34%
G7: 29%
➡️2028
BRICS: 35%
G7: 27,8% #BRICSSummit2023 #BRICSza #Velsig pic.twitter.com/q4PdqjP2Gc— Velina Tchakarova (@vtchakarova) August 22, 2023
China’s phenomenal growth has transformed global trade, investment, and supply chains. Its manufacturing prowess, vast consumer market, and innovation-driven growth have elevated it in the global economy. Though slightly behind, India boasts a sizable population and thriving tech sector, positioning it as the bloc’s second economic powerhouse. Meanwhile, Russia, Brazil, and South Africa have encountered challenges, leading to a decline in their share of global GDP over two decades.
A Stronger Collective Presence
At purchasing power parity (PPP), the combined GDP of these countries surpassed the G7s in 2020, despite differing member performances. The IMF projects this to command 32.1% of global GDP in 2023, up from 16.9% in 1995. The rise of this has fueled calls for more inclusive global governance, diverging from Western G7 policies. Notably, the response to Russia’s Ukraine invasion differed from G7’s, reflecting its independent stance.
India’s Relevance in BRICS and Global South
India’s prominence within is rising, particularly as a voice for the Global South. Its expanding population, economic growth, and strategic significance amplify its significance within the brics alliance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s active engagement in activities underscores India’s commitment to advancing a more equitable and inclusive international order.
If you want to learn the concept of Global South & the role of India in it, Watch the video given below.
By participating in BRICS, India aligns with its historical stance against Western dominance and champions a fairer global landscape. The term “Global South” pertains to nations historically marginalized in international affairs, and India’s influential role empowers it to advocate for these nations’ concerns and interests.
BRICS: Advancing a Multilateral Agenda
Here in this chart, you get the idea about the rise of the BRICS and how the G7 & BRICS countries’s sharing growth in global economy.
A Platform for Mutual Growth
The countries, collectively constituting 42% of the world’s population, 30% of its territory, 23% of its GDP, and about 18% of its trade, came together to enhance collaboration among emerging economies.
Founded in 2001, this brics alliance involves political cooperation through meetings and economic partnerships, evident in establishing the New Development Bank (NDB).
Created in 2014, the NDB supports infrastructure and development projects in emerging markets, offering an alternative funding source to institutions like the IMF. It reflects the countries’ commitment to addressing Global South needs.
Advocating for a Fairer World Order
This has become a powerful force favoring a more representative international economic system. It aims to rectify historical injustices and disparities in power that have sustained Western nations’ dominance. This feeling aligns with India’s past resistance to colonialism and its aspiration for a fairer, more egalitarian global order.
My remarks at Plenary Session I of BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. https://t.co/JqJPCv045R
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 23, 2023
India’s standing as a major influence in determining the group’s agenda is strengthened by its active engagement. Prime Minister Modi’s diplomatic interactions and engagements demonstrate India’s steadfast dedication to promoting the rights and ambitions of the Global South.
BRICS: Paving the Way Forward
Anticipating the journey ahead is crucial. As the coalition strengthens its global influence, challenges and prospects emerge. The expansion and evolution of institutions like the NDB provide a chance to reshape economic governance.
#BRICSza | BRICS Plenary Session.H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“BRICS is an inclusive formation of emerging economies ,seeking to work together to benefit from our rich histories ,cultures and systems to advance the prosperity of our people “
Live @SABCNews #BRICSSummit2023 pic.twitter.com/1p1pmaV95z
— BRICSza (@BRICSza) August 23, 2023
Emphasizing representative economic systems over Western opposition, They can lead in establishing an inclusive global economy via financial regulation, brics currency dynamics, and equitable development.
Promoting Unity and Cooperation
Interpreting BRICS as a G7 adversary warrants caution. Collaboration, communication, and constructive engagement should guide the approach, not conflict.
#BRICSza| Prime Minister Modi sets out 5 suggestions for #BRICS collaboration, including in outer space, innovation, skills development, protection of wildcats & in a repository of traditional medicine. Welcomes special importance of #GlobalSouth in BRICS under 🇿🇦 2023 Chairship. pic.twitter.com/93jFAKsv7r
— BRICSza (@BRICSza) August 23, 2023
Global unity is essential to tackle shared challenges like climate change and poverty reduction. India’s participation offers mediation between the Global South and North. It can emerge as a positive global force by prioritizing equality, respect, and equitable resource distribution.
Conclusion
The emergence of these countries tests the long-standing dominance of Western powers, signaling a sea change in the dynamics of the global economy. India’s increasing stature in the group is consistent with its historical position as a champion of the interests of the Global South. India’s leadership can contribute to shaping a future that places a premium on collaboration, reciprocal development, and shared wealth as the countries work together to establish a more inclusive and representative global order.