As the BRICS bloc extends its global influence, it is increasingly appealing to nations in the Global South by offering tangible benefits, according to South African researcher Zukiswa Roboji.
In a recent interview ahead of the upcoming BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, Roboji, a researcher at Walter Sisulu University, highlighted the bloc’s significant strides in recent years. “BRICS has undoubtedly made notable progress,” she said. “One of the most significant achievements is expanding the group to include more nations, showcasing its growing appeal and relevance in a shifting geopolitical landscape.”
Roboji emphasized that the BRICS mechanism provides emerging economies with easier access to financial resources and enhanced opportunities for trade, investment, and development. She pointed out that the New Development Bank, established by BRICS nations, has funded critical infrastructure projects across the Global South, addressing pressing development challenges.
“This has empowered countries by granting them access to much-needed funding while allowing them to maintain greater independence over their own development paths,” Roboji explained.
According to Roboji, BRICS represents a shift toward multipolarity, attracting nations seeking to diversify relations and reduce reliance on Western powers. “Its commitment to multilateralism and global governance reform aligns with the interests of emerging economies aiming to have a stronger voice in international decision-making,” she noted.
She added that BRICS’s focus on cooperation in technology, energy, and climate change makes it an attractive partner for countries pursuing sustainable growth while addressing global challenges. “As the group expands, its potential to reshape global economic and political dynamics continues to draw interest from nations looking for strategic alignment beyond traditional power centers,” Roboji said.
In this context, BRICS has become an increasingly important platform for Global South countries. “BRICS has extended its outreach to African nations, facilitating investments and partnerships in sectors like energy, infrastructure, and technology,” she observed.
Reference(s):
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