BRICS – a new globalization

In the world today, countless organizations are formed, each achieving specific targets. Some organizations consist of many countries, while others may include only two or four, but their objectives are often significant and impactful. In the modern era, we see large-scale institutions such as the United Nations, the European Union and the OIC, but despite their size, we don’t see substantial success from them.

However, there is one organization of a different nature – BRICS. The idea of BRICS was first introduced by Jim O’Neill in 2001, who noticed that countries like Russia, China, India and Brazil were increasingly playing a vital role in global affairs. Jim O’Neill proposed the idea of BRICS and the first foreign ministers’ meeting of BRICS took place in 2006. In December 2010, South Africa also joined BRICS.

Looking back, after World War II, the world experienced a technological revolution and organizations like the G20 and G7 emerged. BRICS can also be seen as a step towards revolutionary modernization. On June 16, 2009, BRICS formally held its first summit.

Initially, BRICS consisted of Brazil, Russia, India and China, with South Africa joining in 2010. Now, countries like Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the UAE are also playing a role in this organization.

BRICS can be seen as a product of technological revolution and economic globalization. It promotes cooperation and connectivity. The rise of BRICS can also be viewed as a decline of Western dominance. China is considered a trustworthy partner within BRICS and its wisdom and strategic involvement are seen as incredible for the group’s summits. From its inception to the present, BRICS has focused on connectivity, infrastructure development, technological innovation, climate change cooperation and more.

If we consider its recent actions, BRICS has increasingly become a target for the United States. Former U.S. President Donald Trump particularly criticized BRICS, targeting Russia and India, as he viewed their cooperation as a threat to American dominance. BRICS, however, continues to pursue its objectives of mutual cooperation. Notably, BRICS countries are also working to reduce the dominance of the U.S. dollar.

Geopolitically and economically, cooperation within BRICS has been growing. India has traditionally been considered close to the West and has always had a special status in foreign policy. However, after May 2025, the relationship between the U.S. and India has seen significant ups and downs. On one hand, India is unhappy with China, especially over China’s defense cooperation with Pakistan. On the other hand, India is also dissatisfied with Donald Trump’s policies, particularly the imposition of a 25% tariff on Indian goods now 50%.

Trump also frequently highlighted his role in mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan after aircraft were downed, which has further complicated matters. Recent developments, such as the cancellation of a defense deal between India and the U.S. (regarding fighter jets for the Indian Air Force), suggest a shift in India’s focus back towards trusted partner Russia, especially in the defense sector.

One of the core aspects here is that China is playing a key role in strengthening the BRICS countries and using BRICS as an important foreign policy tool. China’s role in BRICS’ growth is undeniable, and this is something that concerns the U.S.

So, we observe the political ups and downs in these relations, but when we look at BRICS’ performance overall, it has been quite effective. The member countries are still very active, especially after the recent expansion of BRICS membership. Let’s see how these global political changes unfold in the future.