Brazil, the current presiding nation of BRICS, has officially confirmed that Indonesia has become a full member of the influential group of emerging economies. This announcement, made on Monday by Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, marks a historic milestone in BRICS' expansion and enhances its global presence.
Indonesia’s formal entry into BRICS is a result of its successful candidacy approval by the group’s leaders in August 2023. Although the decision to join was made official this week, Indonesia's final agreement to become a member came only after the country formed its newly elected government in 2024.
BRICS, under Brazil's leadership for the year 2024, welcomed Indonesia's inclusion, underscoring the importance of Indonesia’s role within the bloc. As Southeast Asia's largest economy and most populous nation, Indonesia is expected to make significant contributions to BRICS, strengthening the bloc’s global influence.
Indonesia’s inclusion in BRICS is a crucial step for the group, reinforcing its growing influence on the world stage. As the largest economy in Southeast Asia, Indonesia's participation enhances BRICS’ standing in global governance discussions. The country shares the group's commitment to reforming international institutions and global governance structures, aligning with the bloc's vision for a more balanced global order.
This expansion is seen as a strategic move to consolidate BRICS' influence in the South-South cooperation framework. Indonesia is poised to play a central role in fostering mutual growth and strengthening partnerships among developing nations, further establishing BRICS as a key player in international diplomacy and economic development.
BRICS was founded in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, with South Africa joining the group in 2010. The group was initially formed to promote collaboration among emerging economies and give them a more significant voice in global affairs. Over the years, BRICS has evolved into a powerful platform that represents the rising influence of developing economies.
The group’s membership has expanded considerably in recent years. New members such as Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates have joined BRICS, underscoring its growing appeal. Although Saudi Arabia received an invitation, it has yet to formalize its membership.
Indonesia's induction into BRICS further strengthens the bloc’s position and reflects its increasing global significance. Other countries, including Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Malaysia, have applied for membership, signaling a growing interest in BRICS and its role in shaping the future of global governance.
The admission of Indonesia into BRICS is part of the group's broader effort to enhance its global presence and increase its influence in the international arena. With countries like Turkey, Malaysia, and others expressing interest in joining, BRICS is poised to continue its expansion and strengthen its role as a representative body for emerging economies.
Indonesia’s membership marks a significant development in BRICS' strategy to broaden its influence and to create a more inclusive platform for global cooperation. By welcoming diverse nations with varying economic and geopolitical interests, BRICS is positioning itself as a pivotal player in the global governance ecosystem, advocating for the reform of institutions that have historically been dominated by Western powers.
Conclusion
Indonesia’s entry into BRICS is a defining moment for the group and represents a significant shift in global geopolitics. With its growing influence, BRICS is increasingly becoming a force for economic and political change, promoting the interests of developing countries on the world stage. Indonesia's active participation will likely bring new perspectives and opportunities for cooperation, reinforcing the group's objectives of mutual growth, reform, and strengthening global governance.