BRICS: a major player on the world stage
Ousseynou Gueye is a doctoral student in the history of international relations at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, and a junior researcher at LASPAD.
In July 2025, Rio de Janeiro hosted the 17th BRICS summit. Founded in 2009 by Brazil, India, Russia, and China, the group added South Africa in 2011. Today, it has ten members: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, and South Africa.
From concept to international influence
The term BRIC was coined in 2001 by economist Jim O’Neill. The addition of South Africa transformed the acronym into BRICS. Since then, the group has strengthened its cooperation: the creation of the Development Bank in 2014, a common foreign exchange reserve fund, and multilateral projects.
In 2025, the summit was held under the theme: Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance. The current context, marked by the accession of new countries, illustrates the growing attraction of the Global South for this organization.
Africa: a strategic partner
Since 2011, several African countries have joined or collaborated with BRICS. Egypt and Ethiopia became members in 2023. Uganda and Nigeria are among the close partners. This interest reflects the desire of African states to diversify their alliances.
The continent is attractive for its natural resources and rare earths. Major powers, such as the United States and China, are increasing their partnerships there. For example, just after the Rio summit, Donald Trump hosted several African leaders at the White House to strengthen cooperation.
Global and African issues
The summit adopted 126 commitments, including reform of international financial institutions, public health, artificial intelligence, and climate. Africa, despite being responsible for only 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, remains highly vulnerable to global warming.
In two decades, the BRICS have evolved from a mere acronym to an organization capable of influencing global economics, politics, and strategy. This evolution opens new opportunities for the Global South and Africa.