Most people think of global politics as something distant, far removed from their everyday lives. But the truth is, international alliances like BRICS—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—are quietly shaping the world you live in, from the price of fuel to the phone in your pocket.
BRICS was created as a counterweight to Western-dominated institutions like the IMF and World Bank. By pooling resources and influence, these nations hope to challenge the global order that has long favored Europe and the United States. This isn’t just about politics; it’s about rewriting the rules of trade and development.
For South Africans, BRICS membership has been both a badge of pride and a source of frustration. On one hand, it positions the country as a gateway to Africa. On the other, critics argue that South Africa gains little compared to giants like China and India. The balance of power within BRICS is uneven, and that shapes the outcomes.
One major reason BRICS matters is economics. The bloc represents a huge share of the world’s population and economic growth. Together, they can negotiate trade deals, build new financial systems, and even create alternatives to the US dollar. That might sound abstract, but it affects how much you pay for imports, how competitive local industries can be, and whether new jobs are created.
Another reason is security. Global politics is becoming more polarized, and BRICS countries often find themselves on the opposite side of Western powers. Whether it’s about sanctions, military interventions, or global governance, the bloc’s stance has the potential to reshape how conflicts are managed. In a world that feels increasingly unstable, that matters to everyone.
Technology is another battlefield. China and India are pushing digital innovations, while Russia focuses on energy and defense. South Africa has the opportunity to leverage partnerships for technology transfer, infrastructure development, and digital inclusion. But without strong governance, these opportunities risk becoming missed chances.
Ordinary people often feel detached from these big geopolitical shifts. But they shouldn’t. When BRICS pushes for lower dependency on Western currencies, it could impact how remittances work, how businesses trade, and even how inflation moves in your grocery store. Global politics really does show up at the supermarket.
There are challenges too. BRICS countries don’t always agree, and their interests sometimes clash. South Africa must constantly balance being the smallest partner in the room while still trying to secure tangible benefits for its people. That’s a diplomatic tightrope.
In many ways, BRICS is like a chessboard. Each move—whether economic, political, or diplomatic—reshapes the global game. And while most of us aren’t sitting at that table, the outcomes affect us directly.
So next time you hear about BRICS, don’t dismiss it as political jargon. It’s one of the most important shifts happening in global politics today, and it’s shaping the world you wake up in every morning.