The BRICS Coalition Meets In India

The BRICS coalition, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, recently held its annual summit in New Delhi, India. This year, several new countries attended, aiming to expand their influence globally. However, this gathering raises questions about the effectiveness and status of the member nations on the world stage.

BRICS Coalition Expansion: Originally comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the coalition has expanded to include additional countries like Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Most new members are considered lower-tier nations.

Notable Absences: Brazilian President Lula da Silva was absent, reportedly for campaigning in Brazil’s elections. However, prominent leaders such as Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping were present.

Modi’s Address: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, chairing this year's summit, called for a transformation in global governance. He emphasized that the "Global South" should have a greater voice in international decision-making. Modi criticized the current system as a "pyramid of privilege," advocating for partnerships where all countries can participate equally.

Critique of BRICS Members: The commentary highlights that BRICS countries are struggling economically and politically. These nations often implement destructive policies that hinder their own economic potential, undermining their ability to influence global governance effectively.

Economic Performance: The performance of BRICS nations relative to the U.S. and each other is examined. While China has seen significant growth since the fall of the Soviet Union, India's economy is gradually improving, albeit slowly. Other nations like Russia and South Africa are experiencing economic decline, and the newer BRICS members show minimal growth.

World GDP Insights: Statistics reveal the distribution of global GDP among various countries from 1990 to 2025. The U.S. share remains stable at 26%, while Brazil, Russia, India, and South Africa show little growth, with China being the notable exception albeit facing recent declines.

Narendra Modi's appeal for a stronger voice for the Global South signals a push for greater representation in global affairs. However, the fundamental issues facing BRICS nations, including mismanagement and economic stagnation, complicate their aspirations. For Modi and other leaders to gain real influence, they may need to adopt better policies that foster economic success rather than maintaining the status quo of elite power dynamics and dependency on Western aid. The effectiveness of the BRICS coalition in reshaping global governance remains uncertain, given the current economic realities of its members. 

https://www.manhattancontrarian.com/blog/2026-9-13-the-brics-coalition-meets-in-india