In a significant development for emerging economies, Indonesia has officially joined BRICS, an alliance comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The announcement was made by Brazil’s government on Monday, marking another step toward strengthening cooperation among nations in the Global South.
A New Chapter for Indonesia
Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous nation, sought BRICS membership to promote the interests of developing nations and contribute to global governance reforms. Brazil, set to preside over BRICS in 2025, confirmed that member states unanimously approved Indonesia’s entry under the expansion framework established during the 2023 Johannesburg summit.
Indonesia delayed its official entry until after the presidential elections held last year. President Prabowo Subianto, who assumed office in October, has expressed commitment to advancing BRICS’ shared objectives.
Strengthening Global Governance
“Indonesia shares with the other members of the group support for the reform of global governance institutions and contributes positively to the deepening of cooperation in the Global South,” Brazil stated in its official announcement.
The expanded BRICS coalition now includes Indonesia alongside Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. The group collectively represents 45% of the world’s population and 35% of the global economy based on purchasing power parity, with China accounting for more than half of its economic strength.
Expansion and Future Aspirants
BRICS’ expansion reflects its growing influence. Countries such as Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Malaysia have formally applied for membership, and many others have expressed interest in joining.
With Indonesia’s inclusion, the alliance aims to deepen cooperation among emerging economies and further its mission of reforming global governance to better represent the interests of the Global South.
