The Current Potential of BRICS in Challenging Western Hegemony

Combined, BRICS nations account for over 40% of the world’s population and about a quarter of the global GDP.

The BRICS group, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, represents a significant geopolitical and economic coalition with the potential to challenge Western hegemony. As emerging economies with substantial global influence, BRICS countries are poised to reshape the global power structure, primarily dominated by Western nations, particularly the United States and the European Union.

One of the most compelling indicators of BRICS’ potential is its economic might. Combined, BRICS nations account for over 40% of the world’s population and about a quarter of the global GDP (World Bank, 2023). This economic power is not just in terms of GDP but also in their substantial natural resources, burgeoning middle classes, and increasing technological advancements. China’s rapid economic growth has already positioned it as the second-largest economy globally, with predictions suggesting it might surpass the United States within the next decade (International Monetary Fund, 2023). India is also experiencing robust economic growth, projected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030 (Goldman Sachs, 2023).

In addition to economic strength, BRICS countries are investing heavily in technological advancements and innovation. China and India are making significant strides in the fields of artificial intelligence, space exploration, and renewable energy. These technological advancements not only bolster their economies but also increase their geopolitical clout. The New Development Bank (NDB), established by BRICS, aims to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in member countries and other emerging economies, thus offering an alternative to Western-dominated financial institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (BRICS, 2023).

Moreover, the BRICS nations are leveraging their collective political influence to push for a more multipolar world order. They have consistently advocated for reforms in global governance structures, including the United Nations Security Council, to better reflect the current global realities. For instance, both India and Brazil are strong candidates for permanent seats on the Security Council, a change that would significantly alter the current Western-dominated setup (Stuenkel, 2020).

However, the BRICS coalition faces considerable challenges in its quest to challenge Western hegemony. One significant issue is the internal diversity and differing national interests of its member states. While China and India are rising economic powerhouses, their geopolitical rivalry, particularly over border disputes, poses a risk to BRICS’ unity (Pant, 2020). Similarly, Brazil and South Africa have their own regional priorities and economic challenges, which may not always align with the broader BRICS agenda.

Furthermore, the political and economic systems within BRICS countries vary widely, ranging from democratic governance in India and Brazil to more autocratic systems in China and Russia. These differences can lead to conflicting approaches to global issues, hindering the coalition’s ability to present a united front. Additionally, external pressures, particularly from the United States and its allies, aim to counterbalance BRICS’ influence through strategic partnerships and economic policies (Kim, 2021).

Despite these challenges, BRICS continues to grow in importance on the global stage. Its potential to challenge Western hegemony lies in its ability to leverage economic growth, technological advancements, and political influence. By addressing internal differences and presenting a cohesive strategy, BRICS can play a pivotal role in shaping a more balanced and multipolar world order.

In conclusion, the BRICS coalition embodies significant potential to challenge Western hegemony through its economic power, technological advancements, and political influence. While internal diversity and external pressures present challenges, the continued collaboration and strategic alignment among BRICS nations can lead to a more multipolar global landscape, reducing the dominance of Western powers.

Sekarsari Sugihartono
Sekarsari Sugihartono
I am an international relations master's student at Gadjah Mada University. My interests are SDGs and International Trade Dispute.