BRICS is a group of countries that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. These five countries first came together to talk about global trade, development, and how they can work together as rising powers in the world. Over the years, more countries have shown interest in joining. At this year’s summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, several new countries like Indonesia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were also welcomed to the group.
Why Are They Meeting in Rio?
The BRICS leaders met in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for an important summit to talk about some of the most serious problems facing the world today. This meeting is not just a regular event it comes at a time when the world is going through many changes and challenges. Countries are dealing with rising tensions in trade, growing worries about climate change, the fast growth of digital technology, and the need to make international organizations more fair and balanced.
One major goal of the summit was to discuss how to make global trade more fair for everyone. Right now, many smaller or developing countries feel that global trade rules are controlled by richer countries, especially in the West. Another important topic at the summit was climate change and the protection of the world’s forests, especially tropical rainforests like the Amazon. These forests are very important for the health of our planet, as they help clean the air and protect the environment.
Some Big Leaders Were Missing
Not every major leader came in person. Russia’s President Vladimir Putin did not attend the summit in person because of legal issues from the International Criminal Court. He joined the meeting through video call. China’s President Xi Jinping also didn’t come and sent his Premier (chief minister) Li Qiang instead.
Still, leaders from other member countries came, and they all agreed that BRICS must keep growing and working together, even when there are differences.
Discussion on Digital Technology and Data Rights
The group also discussed the fast growth of digital technology, including artificial intelligence (AI) and data privacy. The leaders emphasized the importance of protecting people’s data and ensuring no one uses their information without permission. They also emphasized that technology companies should pay creators, writers, and artists fairly when using their work.
This is especially important for smaller countries that want to keep control of their digital information and not be taken advantage of by bigger companies or countries.
Challenges of a Bigger BRICS
While the group is growing, it also faces some challenges. The new members have different ideas, religions, and cultures. For example, countries like India and Iran may not always agree on major issues. It can be difficult for so many countries to agree on one plan or message.
But leaders said this is normal in any large group. What’s important is that BRICS members respect each other, keep talking, and find common ground to work together peacefully.
