BRICS and multilateralism within the context of global governance

Abstract

BRICS can be seen as a new multilateral player on the global stage. BRICS Member States view their differences as a demonstration of the diversity of the world's civilizations, and celebrate their commonalities. For instance, BRICS countries share a long-standing history of geo-political and economic relations of solidarity, support, and mutual cooperation, notably embedded in the legacy of international fora such as the Bandung Conference (1955). The latter conference was an important step toward the establishment of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), amongst others, and there is a recognition that the diversity of the member states opens up the possibility for deeper cooperation for mutual benefit. This paper considers the BRICS within this context of multilateralism. The first section takes a brief look at what multilateralism means in international relations. Thereafter there is a focus on the particular nature of multilateralism within and among BRICS. Lastly, some recommendations are made to inform the development of the BRICS grouping as a champion of a new global order based on mutual cooperation and respect for the rule of law.