Core Principles and Main Pillars of the BRICS Group
According to the declaration of the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan (2024), the BRICS value system is founded on key concepts such as cooperation among member states, sustainable development, inclusive growth, efforts to promote global peace and stability, effectiveness in decision-making and implementation, dialogue-based conflict resolution, and multilateralism.
Requirements and Conditions for Admitting New Members
Given the growing interest of nearly 40 countries in joining BRICS, the admission of new members is subject to several fundamental principles. These include a genuine intention to join, the absence of destructive confrontation among applicant countries, adherence to the Charter of the United Nations, and alignment of the applicant country’s conduct with the goals and long-term vision of the BRICS group.
Cooperation among BRICS member states is not limited solely to economic interactions. Areas of cooperation are defined across three main pillars: political and security cooperation, economic and financial collaboration, and cultural exchange along with people-to-people and international interactions.
The Current Structure of BRICS
The current structure of BRICS is informal. Unlike many similar international groupings, it does not have a formal charter, a secretary-general, or a permanent secretariat. Heads of state convene annually to review key global and regional issues and to make collective decisions. The implementation of these decisions is entrusted to ministerial-level meetings.
This flexible structure reduces administrative costs while enabling swift decision-making and effective coordination. However, with the expansion of membership and the growing scope of activities, the need for a more structured and formal institutional framework is increasingly being recognized.
Fundamental Principles of Cooperation within BRICS
Member countries are required to respect mutual sovereignty and recognize the national independence of one another. This principle ensures that no country—even major economic powers—can impose its will on others. For example, despite China’s significant economic influence, BRICS membership does not imply mandatory alignment with Chinese policies.
Another key principle is equal voting rights among all members. Each country—regardless of the size of its economy, population, or military power—holds one vote. Nevertheless, influence in negotiations may vary depending on leadership capacity and diplomatic effectiveness. A notable example is the active role played by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva during Brazil’s chairmanship.
The Importance of Managerial Capacity and Leadership
The managerial, diplomatic, and leadership capabilities of BRICS leaders play a decisive role in advancing collective objectives and initiatives. Countries with greater global political and economic influence can contribute more effectively to shaping BRICS policies, while still operating within the framework of equality and consensus.