BRICS in a fragmented world order, a test of relevance
Despite diplomatic consensus at the New Delhi summit, BRICS faces internal tensions and imbalances
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Context
The 18th Summit, held in New Delhi, concluded with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration, covering issues from global governance reform to artificial intelligence. While the summit projected consensus and unity, underlying realities, such as China's outsized economic and political influence and unresolved Sino-Indian tensions, suggest the grouping faces significant challenges in achieving its original goal of challenging Western hegemony and establishing a truly multipolar world order.
UPSC Perspectives
International Relations
The fundamental tension within lies between its aspirations for multipolarity and the reality of China's dominance. The grouping originally sought to represent emerging economies and counter the dominance of Western institutions like the and the . However, as the article points out, China's economic and political heft has created an internal imbalance, transforming it from a peer among developing nations to a near-superpower. This shifts the dynamic from a coalition of equals seeking systemic reform to a platform potentially dominated by Chinese interests. For UPSC, analyze how this 'China factor' complicates India's objective of using to promote a truly multipolar world order, rather than inadvertently supporting a unipolar Asia dominated by China.
Geopolitical Strategy
India's engagement with exemplifies its broader strategy of multi-alignment and strategic autonomy. By participating actively and leading consensus-building (as seen in the New Delhi Declaration), India attempts to balance its strengthening ties with the West (like the ) with its role as a voice for the Global South. However, the article argues this is an era of variable geometry—ad hoc, pragmatic coalitions rather than deep-seated alliances. The unresolved border tensions with China (e.g., ) highlight the limitations of as a cohesive bloc. The grouping operates more as a consultative forum than a strategic alliance, limiting its ability to present a unified front on core geopolitical issues. Aspirants should evaluate whether India's membership provides tangible strategic leverage or merely serves diplomatic optics.
Global Governance
The New Delhi Declaration reiterates long-standing demands for the reform of global governance structures, notably the and the . The push for local currency trade and alternatives to Western financial systems reflects a desire to reduce vulnerability to sanctions and dollar dominance. However, the author notes that these original goals remain largely unfulfilled. Despite the rhetoric, has not integrated into a formidable economic bloc capable of challenging the established order. The mention of cooperating on governance is a modern addition to the agenda, but the core issue remains: can a politically diverse group with significant internal rivalries effectively drive systemic change in international institutions? Discuss the barriers faces in moving from a forum for articulating grievances to one that implements alternative global governance mechanisms.