The 17th BRICS Summit has just wrapped up in Rio de Janeiro, showcasing the rising influence of the Global South. Leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa reaffirmed their commitment to independence and self-reliance, emphasizing a shared responsibility in fostering global peace and development.
As the world navigates a tumultuous landscape filled with economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, the BRICS nations are stepping up to play a greater role in building consensus and fostering cooperation. More countries are expressing interest in joining or aligning with the BRICS platform, viewing it as a beacon of hope for a more balanced global order.
In an exclusive interview, Wang Guan spoke with Anna Rosario Malinger-Uy, Vice President for External Affairs at the Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute. They discussed how the BRICS mechanism is increasingly seen in the Global South as an alternative to the Western approach, which often comes with conditions attached.
“BRICS offers a platform where nations can collaborate without the usual strings attached,” Malinger-Uy explained. “It’s about mutual respect and understanding, allowing countries to pursue their development goals independently while benefiting from shared experiences and resources.”
This year also marks 80 years since the victory in the global war against fascism. Reflecting on the past, Malinger-Uy highlighted the importance of unity and cooperation in overcoming global challenges. “History teaches us that collective efforts are crucial in the face of adversity. In today’s age of uncertainty, it’s imperative that nations come together to promote peace and development for all,” she said.
The BRICS Summit’s outcomes signal a promising direction for young people in the Global South, offering a vision of a future where their countries have a stronger voice on the world stage. As the BRICS nations continue to champion independence and collaboration, there’s growing optimism about what this collective effort can achieve.
