Indonesia’s Addition Strengthens BRICS Alliance

Indonesia has officially become a full member (10th) of the BRICS group of emerging economies. Brazil, holding the presidency of BRICS for 2025, announced this development, noting that Indonesia’s candidacy was endorsed by BRICS leaders at the Johannesburg summit in 2023. Indonesia’s membership aligns with the ongoing efforts to reform global governance institutions and deepen cooperation within the Global South, key priorities for Brazil’s BRICS presidency. This expansion marks a significant moment in the evolving dynamics of global economic power.

Key Points

Indonesia’s Membership

• Indonesia joins BRICS as a full member, strengthening the group’s presence in Southeast Asia.
• Indonesia became the 10th member to join the BRICS.

Endorsement at Johannesburg Summit

• The BRICS leaders officially endorsed Indonesia’s candidacy during the 2023 summit.

Brazil’s Statement

• Brazil welcomed Indonesia into BRICS, emphasizing common goals such as reforming global governance and enhancing cooperation within the Global South.

Indonesia’s Role in BRICS

• As the largest economy and most populous country in Southeast Asia, Indonesia shares priorities with BRICS members, including the reform of global governance.

BRICS Expansion

• Indonesia’s membership in BRICS is part of a broader effort to expand the group’s global influence, which includes other recent expansions like Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE in 2024.

BRICS Background

• The BRICS grouping was originally formed in 2006 and expanded in 2010 with the inclusion of South Africa, leading to the formation of BRICS.

BRICS Milestones

• 2006: BRICS was initially formed following a meeting between Russia, India, and China in St. Petersburg.
• 2009: The first BRICS summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia.
• 2010: South Africa was added to the grouping during a BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting, formalizing the transition to BRICS.
• 2011: South Africa participated in the 3rd BRICS Summit in Sanya.
• 2024: BRICS expands again, welcoming five new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia (Not Joined Yet), and the UAE.