Indonesia, the world’s fourth-most populous country and Southeast Asia’s largest economy, has officially joined BRICS as a full-fledged member. The announcement was made on January 6 by Brazil, the group’s current rotating chair. This marks a significant development in the bloc’s mission to reshape global governance and enhance South-South cooperation.

BRICS, originally founded in 2009, comprised Brazil, Russia, India, and China. South Africa joined in 2010, turning the coalition into a prominent platform for economic and political cooperation. While initially focused on mutual investment and financial stability, BRICS gradually expanded its agenda to include security, global governance reforms, and technological collaboration.

Indonesia’s inclusion reflects the bloc’s growing influence and ambition to counterbalance Western-dominated global institutions. With over 270 million people, Indonesia’s membership strengthens BRICS’ collective weight in global affairs and underscores its commitment to fostering a multipolar world order.

Although Indonesia’s candidacy was endorsed by BRICS leaders in 2023, the nation delayed its formal entry until the establishment of its new government in 2024. The Brazilian government welcomed Indonesia’s decision, emphasizing its alignment with BRICS’ core values. “Indonesia shares with other members a commitment to reforming global governance institutions and contributes positively to deepening South-South cooperation,” Brazil’s statement read.

The decision to join BRICS aligns with Indonesia’s foreign policy goals of enhancing its global standing and fostering regional stability.........

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