In a landmark move for global economic cooperation, Indonesia has officially become a full member of the BRICS group, a coalition of emerging economies comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The announcement was made on January 6, 2025, during the Brazilian government’s presidency of BRICS, which began on January 1 and will continue throughout the year.
The decision to admit Indonesia was initially endorsed by BRICS leaders at the Johannesburg Summit in August 2023, as part of the group’s ongoing expansion strategy. However, due to the presidential elections in Indonesia, the formal notification of its candidacy only took place after the establishment of the new government in 2024. Following a consensus among existing BRICS members, Indonesia’s membership was approved in line with the agreed-upon guidelines for expansion.
Indonesia’s accession to BRICS is a significant development, as the country is not only the largest economy in Southeast Asia but also the most populous nation in the region. This move strengthens BRICS’ representation of the Global South, further emphasizing the group’s commitment to reforming global governance institutions and advocating for more inclusive, sustainable solutions to global challenges.
The Brazilian government, which holds the presidency of BRICS for 2025, expressed its enthusiasm over Indonesia’s inclusion. In a statement, Brazilian officials noted that Indonesia’s entry reflects shared goals between the two countries, including advancing the reform of global institutions and fostering stronger cooperation within the Global South.
“The inclusion of Indonesia is a vital step toward enhancing global cooperation,” said a Brazilian government spokesperson. “Indonesia’s dynamic economy and strategic position within the Global South align with Brazil’s presidency theme of ‘Enhancing Global South Cooperation for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.’ We look forward to deepening ties and expanding opportunities for collective growth and leadership on the global stage.”
Indonesia’s membership in BRICS comes at a time of increasing geopolitical complexity, with the Global South playing a more prominent role in shaping discussions on issues such as climate change, trade, and global security. As a key player in Southeast Asia, Indonesia’s inclusion in BRICS is expected to bring new perspectives and opportunities for collaboration on these critical issues.
BRICS, which was originally formed in 2009 to counterbalance the influence of Western powers in global financial institutions, has steadily grown in both influence and membership. With the addition of Indonesia, the group’s collective influence expands even further, positioning BRICS as a key advocate for the interests of emerging economies in the face of evolving global challenges.
This expansion of BRICS reflects broader trends in the international system, where emerging markets are increasingly seeking greater representation in global decision-making bodies. As Indonesia joins the ranks of BRICS, the group’s efforts to shape a more equitable and sustainable global governance framework are set to continue gaining momentum.
As the year progresses, BRICS under Brazil’s leadership is poised to continue its push for reforming international governance structures, advocating for fairer representation and a more inclusive approach to addressing global challenges.
With Indonesia now part of BRICS, the stage is set for even greater collaboration and innovation in the years ahead.