BRICS Expansion and its Role in Shaping International Politics
Adv. Abrar Hussain Shah
The reality of international politics is that the global political system often operates chaotically, lacking systematic discipline. Many states, in their pursuit of increased influence, find themselves susceptible to the pressure exerted by a narrow group of traditional powers. These powers aim to curtail the growing influence of emerging and potential superpowers, which they perceive as threats to their global dominance. A theoretical and factual analysis of international politics reveals India’s consistent efforts to reshape the international landscape by advocating for diversity within international organizations and platforms, fostering positive transformations on a global scale.
India’s significant impact on international relations and global politics
India, a founding member of several international organizations, wields a significant impact on international relations and global politics. Among these organizations, “BRICS” stands out. BRICS represents a coalition of five emerging superpowers: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Collectively known as BRICS, these nations account for 41 percent of the world’s population, 25 percent of global GDP, and a 16 percent share in world trade. The 15th BRICS summit, held in August 2023 at the “Standon Convention Center” in Johannesburg, South Africa, featured Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as one of the current leaders representing the bloc.
During the summit, it was announced that six new members—Argentina, Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates—had been invited to join the bloc. Their full membership is set to take effect on January 1, 2024. These additions, representing Asia, Africa, and South America, are not only regional powers but also emerging soft powers. This expansion significantly enhances BRICS’ influence; the combined economic strength of the new members and the existing founding ones will constitute 36 percent of global GDP, encompass 47 percent of the world’s population, and yield a larger share of world trade.
India’s diplomatic endeavors and its pursuit of extended foreign relations
The expansion of BRICS holds profound significance in India’s diplomatic endeavors and its pursuit of extended foreign relations. Since its establishment in 2009 and its first summit in Russia, through the inclusion of South Africa in 2010, the creation of the New Development Bank (a common bank for BRICS members) in 2014, and the incorporation of new members in 2023, India has consistently aimed to amplify the influence of this international organization. The goal is to provide a substantial voice and representation to emerging powers while orchestrating collective efforts towards modernization. This, in turn, aims to stabilize the anarchic global political system by mitigating the influence of traditional powers over developing nations.
Increased investment opportunities among BRICS members
All the new members of BRICS share friendly and strategic ties with India. Their inclusion in the bloc is a crucial aspect of enhancing India’s influence. These new members represent three distinct continents, aligning well with India’s national interests. This development promises to foster increased investment opportunities among BRICS members, elevate India’s status in international affairs, and bolster its role in the global community. Such progress is poised to enable India to significantly impact the reform process of the United Nations.
In the current context, it is imperative for India to emerge as a prominent player in global politics. Through skillful diplomatic maneuvers, coupled with the growth of both hard and soft power, India can strive for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Such an achievement would solidify India’s stature as a major player in international politics.
———————————————-
