The dynamics within the BRICS alliance have been evolving, and recent developments indicate a shift in the geopolitical landscape, particularly concerning Brazil and Ethiopia.
Amidst this transformation, there are signs of potential pressure for these nations to reconsider their membership in BRICS. Brazil, traditionally a key player within BRICS, is witnessing growing calls among its diplomats and segments of civil society to disengage from the alliance, according to an analysis published by Valdai.
The expansion of BRICS to include new members (Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) has been met with skepticism in Brazil. Some view this expansion as diluting Brazil’s power within the alliance.
Moreover, Brazil’s perception of BRICS has been influenced by its interpretation of recent geopolitical events, including tensions between China and the USA, as well as Russia’s war in Ukraine. Brazilian diplomacy has expressed discomfort with what it sees as a prioritisation of political and security cooperation within BRICS, particularly under Chinese leadership. This divergence in priorities between Brazilian diplomats and the country’s presidency has led to inconsistencies in Brazil’s approach to BRICS. Apparently there are also fears that Brazil’s participation in BRICS could dent its chances of becoming a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.
Similarly, Ethiopia’s recent accession to BRICS has sparked mixed reactions domestically and internationally, The Reporter noted. While the move signifies Ethiopia’s aspirations for global influence, concerns over potential Western backlash loom large. The Ethiopian Economics Association has highlighted the risks associated with joining BRICS, including possible pressure from the West that could have financial, political, and economic repercussions.
The BRICS sceptics in Ethiopia fear that the United States may perceive the growing influence of BRICS as a challenge to its hegemony. The Reporter notes that a recent survey published by the Ethiopian Economics Association suggested that the country could suffer repercussions from joining BRICS. These issues were aired at a recent meeting in Addis Ababa between Ethiopian intellectuals and BRICS officials.
