THE ROLE OF BRICS IN SUPPORTING EMERGING POWERS AT THE GLOBAL LEVEL: DEEPER INSTITUTIONAL COOPERATION AND ASSOCIATED CHALLENGES

Abstract

With the passage of time, BRICS has become not only a recognised cooperation of emerging states but also a focus for states of the so-called Global South to join. One may argue that those states are in search of additional support to enhance their international recognition and to ensure that their interests are taken into consideration at the global level. The question arises as to what extent BRICS, as a cooperation, can deliver on this expectation. Doing so would require BRICS to develop a strong institutional setting, to strengthen internal coherence, so that it can take on an influential role within the international system. However, this is where BRICS, like any other emerging organisation, faces a critical challenge. Stronger institutional development implies addressing and integrating the different interests of its members, while agreeing on a unified strategy as an organisation. The political, economic, and social heterogeneity of its members and the stated goal of supporting each member’s national interest equally do not fit well with such strategic requirements. Failing to formulate a unified strategy, to deepen institutional cooperation, BRICS may not be able to deliver on what its members are expecting: to become a strong voice for their interests at the global level.