The Intelligence from The Economist Fellow-BRICS road: a club expands
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Aug 25, 2023 
Join John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent, as he explores the complex dynamics of BRICS' expansion with six new members and what it means for global geopolitics. Holly Berman, social media editor, tackles the rise of kid influencers, discussing the lucrative but tricky regulatory landscape they navigate. Anne Rowe, obituaries editor, honors Bindeshwar Pathak, whose innovative sanitation solutions challenged caste norms in India. Each brings a unique perspective on pressing social and political issues.
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BRICS Revival
- The BRICS bloc, initially driven by emerging market optimism, faced criticism and declining relevance in the 2010s.
- Russia's invasion of Ukraine and China's growing assertiveness have revitalized the bloc as a counterweight to the West.
BRICS Expansion and China's Influence
- The addition of six new members—Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—reflects China's growing influence.
- These new additions are expected to further diversify BRICS both economically and politically.
Internal Tensions Within BRICS
- The expanded BRICS faces a fundamental tension between genuinely non-aligned members and those seeking closer ties with China and Russia.
- This tension could limit the bloc's effectiveness, despite its potential for challenging the West on certain issues.