The BRICS in the international system.

Enlargement, multipolarity and alignments

Abstract

Since their institutionalisation, when they were still considered emerging powers, the BRICS have set two central objectives: an alternative to the global financial architecture and a counterweight to the institutions hegemonised by the West. In the last two decades, where the international order is being challenged, these actors seek to position themselves not only as a power bloc in international governance, but also to reinforce their individual leadership and push for a multipolar perspective on the geopolitical agenda. The enlargement to BRICS+ with six additional members can be read as a result of both structural changes in the global political economy and as a response to shifting international power balances.