BRICS+: United in Words, Divided in Action

Today we live in a world where your economic stability defines your global influence and your power. The members of BRICS+ came together to discuss a common goal, to free the South from Western economic domination. However, what began as a sign of unity, quickly exposed the contradictions and differences between the delegates instead.

The nation of Russia quickly took over the stage sharing their stance that members of BRICS+ should work together to reject Western systems and create their own alternative solution. The Russian delegates then described the global financial order as “degenerate” and urged BRICS+ to form its own power base, gaining the trust and support of some countries. Yet despite everything, Russia still heavily relies on the resources, technology and machinery of the West, reminding us that opposing doesn’t always lead to independence. Just because we can think and talk about a solution, doesn’t mean it’s practical and good for other nations.

Indonesia, on the other hand, decided to take a more logical approach, trying to urge more members to join BRICS+ before opposing the United States as they were other countries that have also been affected by this reason. Indonesia also brought up the fact that their country alongside Russia, China, and India contain a larger portion of the world’s population and potential, yet still gets ‘outnumbered’ in politics just because they aren’t economically stable enough. They advocate for inclusion and strength not just based on the amount of money you have, but the amount of potential you can bring to the table.

The difference between Indonesia and Russia is that Indonesia is able to be considerate to countries that are unable to break ties with the United States as they experience it themselves too. In some nations, the United States has built military bases and embassies allowing them to do anything without even getting close to these nations.

India, at the final side of the council, agrees with Indonesia, calling the increase in local trade and reducing dollar alliance. While South Africa and Ethiopia called attention to the voting power that nations have, the whole continent of Africa having less than 3% while the United States holds 7% of it, encouraging fairer representation. The nations that oppose the Western make it clear that they recognize the Western’s role in stability during the Great Depression. However, it is time for a change that is done carefully as opposing the West directly can easily lead to chaos.

Majority of the nations have also fallen victim to the sanctions of the United States, being failed by the faulty oil distribution, and increasing rates of inflation, and bringing global trade down with it. They have claimed that they see the BRICS+ committee as a lifeline and not just an alliance. However when questioned by journalists, it is easy to question whether Iran joined due to commitment or desperation as we found out their inflation rates have gone up by 45%.

Even if the BRICS+ members were divided, they will work towards their common goal together despite having different methods. BRICS+ still face the issue of reliance on the Western market while opposing Western dominance. Expansion may save them and strengthen their influence. However, without a shared strategy and a little bit more cooperation, we fear this might be the end of the plan from BRICS+.

For BRICS+ to obtain their vision, they need unity, as independence cannot stand without unity, and unity cannot exist without trust. Until BRICS+ is able to solve their internal issues and disputes, BRICS+ will only be a dream stuck between ambition and harsh reality.