The Global Allure of BRICS: Exploring Expansion and Alliances

The BRICS group, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is holding its 15th summit in Johannesburg. Originally coined as BRIC in 2001, the bloc was established in 2009 to challenge the dominance of the United States and its Western allies. Over 40 countries, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Argentina, and Ethiopia, have expressed interest in joining BRICS, viewing it as an alternative to Western-dominated global bodies. These nations hope that membership will bring benefits such as development finance, increased trade, and investment. Dissatisfaction with the global order has grown, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when developing nations faced difficulties accessing life-saving vaccines. The BRICS summit aims to strengthen economic cooperation and multilateral trade while operating by consensus.