BRICS expands influence to challenge Western global order

The BRICS bloc is expanding its geopolitical and economic influence, positioning itself as a voice for the Global South and a competitor to Western-led international orders. Originally an investment acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, and China, the group has grown to include South Africa and is attracting interest from dozens of other nations.

Key strategic developments include the establishment of the New Development Bank in Shanghai and the creation of payment systems designed to bypass the US dollar. The bloc aims to increase its influence within major international institutions, such as the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank, seeking to move from being rule-followers to rule-makers in the global economy. Currently, the group accounts for approximately 40% of global GDP.