Brics and the world

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BRICS and the Emergence of a Multipolar World: A Diversity Practice on a Global Scale

Analytics - two days ago

South Eye | Analysis - Exclusive

The rise of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) represents a fundamental shift in the global order, challenging the traditional Western-dominated unipolar system. This transformation aligns with the principles of democracy, pluralism, and diversity—not just within nations but on a global scale. A multipolar world, where power is distributed among multiple influential states rather than concentrated in a single hegemony, reflects a more inclusive and balanced approach to international relations.

BRICS as a Catalyst for Multipolarity

Since its formation in 2009, BRICS has evolved from an economic bloc into a geopolitical force advocating for a fairer global governance structure. The group’s expansion in 2024—adding Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—signals its growing appeal as an alternative to Western-led institutions. Together, BRICS now represents nearly half of the world’s population and over a quarter of global GDP, reinforcing its role in shaping a multipolar system.

Economically, BRICS promotes de-dollarization through local currency trade settlements and the establishment of the New Development Bank (NDB), offering an alternative to the IMF and World Bank. Politically, it provides a platform for non-Western voices, particularly in conflicts like Ukraine and Palestine, where BRICS nations often adopt positions distinct from the U.S. and EU. This diversity of perspectives embodies the democratic ideal of multipolarity, where no single power dictates global norms.

Challenges to Cohesion and Leadership

Despite its potential, BRICS faces internal divisions. China Russia, and India, the group’s largest economies, have unresolved border disputes and competing visions for the bloc.

The question of leadership remains critical. China, with its economic might and Belt and Road Initiative, is the natural candidate but faces skepticism over its assertive foreign policy. Russia major player also and  India, balancing ties with both the West and BRICS, could serve as a mediator but may lack the strategic weight to unify the group. A collective leadership model might be the most viable path, ensuring no single nation dominates—a true reflection of multipolarity.

Conclusion: Multipolarity as Global Diversity in Practice

A multipolar world, as advanced by BRICS, mirrors diversity values on an international level. It allows for diverse political and economic systems to coexist, reduces dependency on a single superpower, and fosters a more equitable distribution of influence. However, for this system to succeed, BRICS must overcome internal rivalries and institutionalize cooperation without falling into a new form of bloc-based competition. If managed wisely, the rise of BRICS could mark the beginning of a more inclusive and diversed global order—one where power is shared, not monopolized.