Indonesia Joins the BRICS Alliance: A Strategic Step Towards Global Collaboration

Department of Research, Studies and International News  07-01-2025

Indonesia has officially become a member of the BRICS group, an influential coalition of emerging economies including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Often perceived as a counterbalance to Western dominance, BRICS has steadily grown in significance on the global stage.

Brazil, which currently holds the rotating presidency of BRICS, announced on Monday that Indonesia would join as a full-fledged member. On Tuesday, Indonesia welcomed this announcement, describing it as a pivotal move to enhance cooperation with other developing nations.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jakarta issued a statement emphasizing that BRICS membership represents a strategic initiative aimed at fostering collaboration with nations across the Global South. The statement underscored Indonesia’s commitment to principles of equality, mutual respect, and sustainable development. Additionally, Indonesia expressed its gratitude to Russia, the chair of BRICS for 2024, for its support in facilitating the country’s entry into the alliance.

Brazil’s foreign ministry lauded Indonesia’s inclusion, highlighting that the Southeast Asian nation shares the group’s collective ambition to reform global governance institutions. Indonesia’s acceptance into BRICS was finalized during the 2023 summit held in Johannesburg, reflecting the bloc’s ongoing efforts to broaden its influence and strengthen cooperation among developing economies.

The Evolution and Expansion of BRICS

BRICS, an acronym originally coined by a Goldman Sachs economist in the early 2000s, was formally established in 2009 by its founding members: Brazil, Russia, India, and China. South Africa joined the following year, solidifying the group’s presence as a major player in global economics and diplomacy. In 2023, BRICS expanded further, incorporating Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates as full members.

The group is increasingly seen as a counterweight to Western economic and political influence. A key focus for BRICS has been the “de-dollarization” of international trade—a strategy aimed at reducing reliance on the US dollar, which many members accuse Washington of leveraging as a political tool. Proposals for a shared BRICS currency have gained momentum, and Brazil has indicated that advancing this goal is a priority during its presidency. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s administration has articulated plans to develop new payment mechanisms to streamline trade among member nations.

Indonesia’s Vision for BRICS Membership

In its statement, Indonesia emphasized that joining BRICS reflects its growing role in addressing global challenges. The nation is committed to reinforcing multilateral cooperation to establish a more inclusive and equitable global order. Indonesia views its BRICS membership as a significant opportunity to strengthen ties with fellow developing nations and contribute positively to global economic reform and sustainable development.

This move marks a significant milestone in Indonesia’s foreign policy, signaling its dedication to shaping a fairer global structure while actively participating in major international dialogues. By aligning with BRICS, Indonesia positions itself as a key player in the evolving dynamics of global governance.