Brazil Announces Indonesia Officially Joins BRICS, What Are the Impacts?

Kapanlagi.com - In a historic moment, Brazil, which is currently serving as the president of BRICS for 2025, officially announced Indonesia as a full member of the organization. This decision is not merely a recognition, but also marks a new chapter for Indonesia in strengthening its position on the international stage, especially in promoting more solid multilateral cooperation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemlu RI) stated that this membership is in line with the constitutional mandate to play an active role in creating a more just and peaceful world order. In its official statement, Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to contribute to global agendas that include economic resilience, technology, and sustainable development.

According to Kemlu RI, this membership reflects our determination to ensure that the voices of developing countries are heard in global decision-making. "We are committed to creating a more just, peaceful, and prosperous world for all."

"This achievement is a reflection of Indonesia's increasing active role in global issues and its commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation to realize a more inclusive and equitable world order," thus stated the written statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemlu RI) published on Tuesday (1/7/2025).

1. The History of BRICS and Its Strategic Role in the World

BRICS, which was born in 2009 from the cooperation of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, has now strengthened further after adding South Africa in 2010, making it a bloc of five countries.

Established to challenge the economic dominance of the G7, BRICS continues to grow by inviting Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates in 2023.

Now, Indonesia has officially joined as a full member after previously only being a partner, adding to the strength of the bloc that encompasses nearly 45 percent of the world's population and contributes 35 percent to global Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

With Indonesia's presence, BRICS is predicted to become increasingly influential in reshaping the international economic and political order.

2. Indonesia's Obligations and Responsibilities in BRICS

As a full member of BRICS, Indonesia now bears a very important responsibility in driving the global agenda. This responsibility includes an active role in international economic discussions, support for sustainable development, and collaboration on energy and food security issues.

Indonesia is expected to be a driving force behind initiatives that strengthen South-South cooperation, focusing on reforming global financial institutions and creating a fairer trading system.

In addition, Indonesia's contribution to the climate change agenda and health resilience is also highly anticipated. With this new status, Indonesia is expected to expand its influence on the world stage and build a more solid network with other developing countries.

3. Economic and Political Benefits for Indonesia

Indonesia's joining of BRICS opens wide doors for its economic advancement and political influence. In the economic arena, Indonesia has the opportunity to penetrate a broader market and strengthen trade ties with other member countries.

Politically, this membership solidifies Indonesia's position on the global diplomatic stage, especially in addressing crucial issues such as economic inequality and climate change.

Additionally, Indonesia can leverage this platform to advocate for reforms in international financial institutions. With the largest population in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is poised to be a key player in strengthening global collaboration for a better future.

4. What is BRICS and what are its goals?

BRICS, an economic alliance involving Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, emerges as a new force aiming to strengthen collaboration among developing countries.

With the goal of challenging the economic hegemony of advanced nations like the G7, BRICS seeks to create a more solid and sustainable synergy, paving the way for a more balanced future in the global economic landscape.

5. Why did Indonesia join BRICS?

Indonesia has taken a strategic step by joining efforts to strengthen its position on the multilateral cooperation stage.

With a collaborative spirit, the country is committed to supporting sustainable development and ensuring that the voices of developing countries are not only heard but also valued in global forums.

6. What are the economic benefits for Indonesia after joining BRICS?

Indonesia has great opportunities to expand its export market, attract enticing new investments, and strengthen synergies in technology and trade with other member countries.

7. What challenges does Indonesia face as a BRICS member?

The challenges include efforts to build agreements among members with diverse interests while ensuring that Indonesia's contributions align with policies in both domestic and global contexts.

8. What is the impact of this membership on Indonesia's relations with other countries?

Indonesia's membership in BRICS will not only elevate our bargaining position on the international stage but also require us to maintain a careful balance in bilateral relations with countries that are not part of this bloc.

(kpl/rmt)