Indonesia’s Full Membership in BRICS

GS 2 – International relation

Context:
Brazil recently announced Indonesia’s admission as a full member of BRICS, marking a significant expansion of the international bloc.

Evolution of BRICS

1. Formation:
   • BRICS was established in 2009 with Brazil, Russia, India, and China as founding members.
2. Expansion Timeline:
   • 2010: South Africa joined the group, expanding it to BRICS.
   • 2023: New members included Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE, with Saudi Arabia invited but yet to join.
   • 2025: Indonesia became the latest member, enhancing the bloc’s representation in Southeast Asia.
3. Current Membership:
   • BRICS now includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, UAE, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia.

Significance of Indonesia’s Membership

1. Economic Influence:
   • As Southeast Asia’s largest economy and the fourth most populous country globally, Indonesia brings substantial economic weight to BRICS.
   • Its inclusion strengthens South-South Cooperation by fostering economic and political collaboration among developing nations.
2. Geopolitical Impact:
   • Enhances the bloc’s influence in the Asia-Pacific region.
   • Reflects BRICS’ commitment to diversifying its membership to include emerging economies from different regions.

Countries Seeking BRICS Membership

1. Formal Applicants:
   • Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Malaysia have officially applied for membership.
2. Other Interests:
   • Several other nations have expressed interest, though specific names remain unconfirmed.

Impact of BRICS on Geopolitics

1. Alternatives to the US Dollar:
   • Russia and China are actively exploring ways to reduce dependence on the US Dollar in international trade and finance.
2. Exclusion of the US:
   • BRICS stands as a prominent international bloc without US participation, emphasizing its focus on multipolarity.
3. US Concerns:
   • Former US President Donald Trump cautioned BRICS against creating a new currency or supporting alternatives to the dollar, reflecting Washington’s apprehension over the bloc’s growing influence.