Indonesia Joins BRICS: A New Chapter in Global Diplomacy
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By Archys
In a landmark move for its foreign policy, Indonesia has officially become the newest member of BRICS, the influential group of emerging economies comprising Brazil, russia, India, China, and South Africa. This historic decision, announced on January 6, 2025, underscores Indonesia’s growing role on the global stage and its commitment to fostering international cooperation.
A Strategic Milestone
The inclusion of Indonesia into BRICS was approved unanimously, following the group’s decision at the 2023 Johannesburg Summit to expand its membership. Brazil, the current chair of BRICS, highlighted Indonesia’s potential to contribute to global governance reform and enhance collaboration within the Global South. “Indonesia, together with other members, supports the reform of global governance institutions and contributes positively to deepening cooperation in the Global South region,” stated the Brazilian government.
Analysts view Indonesia’s membership as a testament to the country’s stable economy and President Prabowo Subianto’s outward-looking approach. Teuku Rezasyah, an international relations expert, noted, “Indonesia is very interesting, both for the BRICS group and for non-BRICS countries. its economy is stable, and the government under prabowo Subianto is also increasingly outward-oriented.”
While Indonesia’s entry into BRICS is celebrated as a diplomatic triumph, it also comes with challenges. Analysts have cautioned the nation to remain vigilant amid geopolitical tensions, notably with the United States. The incoming U.S. management, led by President-elect Donald Trump, has expressed skepticism toward BRICS, raising concerns about potential economic and political repercussions.
At the Annual Press Statement of the Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Minister Sugiono addressed these concerns, emphasizing that Indonesia’s decision aligns with its long-standing non-aligned stance. “Indonesia remains in its position as a non-aligned country and will continue to bridge the interests of developing countries and the Indo-Pacific region, as well as being active in preventing increasingly sharp geoeconomic and geopolitical competition,” he affirmed.
The Path to Membership
Indonesia’s journey to BRICS membership began in 2023 when it first expressed interest in joining the group. The formal submission was submitted in 2024, following the formation of President Prabowo Subianto’s new government. The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the support of Russia, the 2024 BRICS chair, and Brazil, the 2025 chair, in facilitating the country’s entry. “The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs would like to thank Russia,as Chair of BRICS 2024,for its support in facilitating Indonesia’s entry into BRICS,as well as to Brazil,Chair of BRICS 2025,which has announced Indonesia’s participation,” the ministry stated.
This milestone was also the result of Indonesia’s active engagement with BRICS in recent years, including its participation in the 2023 Johannesburg Summit and the 2024 Kazan Summit.
Looking Ahead
Indonesia’s membership in BRICS marks a significant step in its efforts to strengthen its global influence and contribute to a more balanced international order. As the nation navigates the complexities of this new role, its ability to maintain its non-aligned stance and foster economic openness will be critical. With its strategic position and growing economy, Indonesia is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of BRICS and global diplomacy.
How will Indonesia’s inclusion in BRICS potentially impact the dynamics between China and India within the group?
Interview: Indonesia Joins BRICS – A Conversation wiht Dr. Maya Sari, Global Economics Expert
By Archys
In light of Indonesia’s recent accession to BRICS, we sat down with Dr.Maya Sari, a renowned economist and geopolitical analyst, to discuss the implications of this historic move. Dr. sari, who has advised governments and international organizations on trade and growth, shared her insights on what this means for Indonesia, BRICS, and the global order.
Archyde: Dr. Sari, thank you for joining us. Indonesia’s entry into BRICS has been described as a “strategic milestone.” What does this mean for the country’s position in global diplomacy?
Dr. Maya Sari: Thank you for having me. Indonesia’s accession to BRICS is indeed a pivotal moment. For years, Indonesia has been a key player in ASEAN and a voice for the Global South. Joining BRICS amplifies that voice on a larger stage. It’s a recognition of Indonesia’s growing economic clout, its stable political environment, and its strategic location in the indo-Pacific.This move signals that Indonesia is ready to take on a more active role in shaping global governance and economic policies.
Archyde: BRICS has frequently enough been seen as a counterbalance to Western-dominated institutions like the G7. How does Indonesia’s inclusion strengthen this narrative?
Dr. Maya Sari: BRICS was founded on the principle of creating a multipolar world, where emerging economies have a say in global decision-making. Indonesia’s inclusion adds significant weight to this vision. With the world’s fourth-largest population and a rapidly growing economy,Indonesia brings not only demographic and economic heft but also a unique perspective as a bridge between Asia and the Global South.
Moreover, Indonesia’s commitment to reforming global governance institutions aligns perfectly with BRICS’ goals. For instance, Indonesia has long advocated for a more inclusive and equitable international financial system. Its presence in BRICS will likely accelerate discussions on alternatives to the US dollar-dominated system and the role of institutions like the IMF and World bank.
Archyde: What specific contributions can Indonesia make to BRICS?
Dr. Maya Sari: Indonesia’s contributions will be multifaceted. Economically,it’s a resource-rich nation with a strong manufacturing base and a burgeoning digital economy. These sectors align well with BRICS’ focus on trade, investment, and technological collaboration.
politically, Indonesia’s experience in managing diversity and fostering regional cooperation through ASEAN can serve as a model for BRICS as it expands its membership. Indonesia’s leadership in climate change initiatives, particularly in lasting development and renewable energy, will also be invaluable as BRICS seeks to address global challenges.
Archyde: Some analysts have raised concerns about the potential challenges Indonesia might face within BRICS,particularly given the group’s diverse interests. How do you see Indonesia navigating these dynamics?
Dr.maya Sari: It’s true that BRICS is a diverse group, with each member having its own priorities. However, Indonesia has a long history of diplomacy and consensus-building, which will serve it well in this context.President Prabowo Subianto’s outward-looking approach and pragmatic foreign policy will be key in balancing Indonesia’s national interests with the collective goals of BRICS.
One area to watch is how Indonesia manages its relationships with both China and India, two major powers within BRICS with competing interests. Indonesia’s neutral and non-aligned stance will be an asset hear,allowing it to act as a mediator and bridge builder.
Archyde: what does this mean for the future of BRICS as a whole?
Dr. Maya sari: Indonesia’s inclusion marks a new chapter for BRICS. It signals that the group is serious about expansion and becoming a more influential force in global affairs. With Indonesia on board, BRICS now represents nearly half of the world’s population and a significant share of global GDP.
This expansion could also pave the way for other emerging economies to join, further diversifying the group and strengthening its collective voice. Though,BRICS will need to address internal challenges,such as aligning its members’ interests and ensuring effective decision-making. If it succeeds, BRICS could become a cornerstone of a more balanced and inclusive global order.
Archyde: Thank you, Dr. Sari, for your insightful analysis. Indonesia’s entry into BRICS is undoubtedly a momentous development, and we look forward to seeing how this new chapter unfolds.
Dr. Maya Sari: Thank you. It’s an exciting time for Indonesia and for the world. I’m optimistic about the opportunities this partnership will bring.
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Dr. Maya Sari is a Senior Fellow at the Global Economics institute and a former advisor to the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She specializes in international trade, development, and geopolitical strategy.
