a respost from BRICS
BRICS: Rising Tensions and Opportunities in Global Cooperation
BRICS is reshaping global power, challenging the West while facing internal struggles. Will South-South cooperation redefine alliances or deepen divisions?
Mar 19, 2025
As geopolitical tensions mount, the BRICS bloc continues to assert its role in reshaping global power dynamics. Facing pressure from Western nations, particularly the United States, BRICS has emerged as a counterweight to traditional economic and political alliances. But as the bloc strengthens its influence, internal and external challenges pose critical questions about its long-term trajectory.
BRICS Through the Lens of Experience
For Professor Gustavo de Carvalho, a public policy and multilateralism expert with over 15 years of experience, BRICS is more than just an economic and political alliance—it is a platform for reimagining international cooperation. Having worked extensively across Brazil and South Africa, de Carvalho offers unique insights into the bloc’s evolution.
"Being part of BRICS is not just political; it’s about building bridges across nations," he notes.
His perspective underscores the deeper significance of BRICS beyond economic partnerships, positioning it as a movement that challenges Western dominance in global governance.
U.S.–South Africa Relations: A Delicate Balancing Act
Tensions between the United States and South Africa have intensified, largely due to South Africa’s stance on land expropriation and its growing alignment with BRICS policies. The strain is evident in trade negotiations, particularly concerning the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which provides preferential access to U.S. markets.
South Africa faces a complex diplomatic balancing act: maintaining historical ties with the West while strengthening partnerships within BRICS. The broader implications of these tensions could redefine trade dynamics in the region, potentially pushing South Africa toward greater economic independence from traditional Western markets.
Brazil’s Pivotal Role in BRICS Leadership
As Brazil prepares to assume the BRICS presidency in 2025, it faces a critical moment in its leadership on the global stage. The country’s domestic challenges— including political polarization, economic instability, and environmental concerns —cast uncertainty over its ability to spearhead the bloc’s ambitious agenda.
Hosting the COP 30 climate summit in December serves as a crucial test for Brazil’s commitment to global environmental leadership, particularly in protecting the Amazon rainforest. According to de Carvalho, "Brazil's leadership in BRICS could set the tone for future discussions on multilateralism." However, the question remains: Can Brazil navigate its internal challenges while positioning itself as a key driver of BRICS initiatives?
A Push for Local Currency Trade
One of BRICS' most ambitious economic initiatives involves reducing dependence on Western-dominated financial systems, such as SWIFT, by promoting trade in local currencies. While the idea has gained traction, progress remains slow due to the diverse economic priorities of member states.
The development of an alternative payment system highlights BRICS’ long-term goal of economic self-reliance. However, achieving consensus among its members remains a challenge, reflecting the broader complexities of multilateral cooperation within the bloc.
Turkey’s Expanding Footprint in Africa
Beyond BRICS, Turkey has been making strategic inroads into Africa, leveraging economic, political, and defense partnerships to strengthen its influence. With rising trade and investment, Turkey has integrated cultural diplomacy—such as educational programs and television productions—into its foreign policy approach.
In the defense sector, Turkish drone technology has become increasingly popular among African nations, reinforcing its role as a significant player in the region. As Turkey expands its diplomatic presence, its engagement serves as a case study of how emerging powers can effectively deploy soft power to solidify international partnerships.
The Future of South-South Cooperation
At the heart of BRICS’ vision is the concept of South-South cooperation—collaborations between developing nations aimed at reducing reliance on Western institutions. However, for these partnerships to be truly transformative, they must move beyond symbolic gestures.
De Carvalho stresses the need for deeper institutional integration and knowledge-sharing, particularly between Africa and Latin America. Strengthening these ties could provide a viable alternative to traditional alliances, reinforcing economic resilience among emerging economies.
Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for BRICS
As BRICS navigates mounting global pressures, its resilience will be tested by both internal divisions and external scrutiny. The bloc’s ability to foster meaningful South-South cooperation could redefine international relations, presenting an alternative to Western-led global governance.
With Brazil’s leadership on the horizon, the coming years will be pivotal in determining whether BRICS can evolve into a truly influential force — or whether its ambitions will be hindered by geopolitical complexities and internal discord.