Brazil, currently holding the presidency of BRICS, has officially announced Indonesia’s induction as a full member of the group. The decision was endorsed by BRICS leaders during the Johannesburg Summit in 2023, with formal approval granted in 2024.
In a statement, Brazil’s Foreign Ministry welcomed Indonesia, emphasizing its alignment with the bloc’s priorities. “As the largest economy and most populous nation in Southeast Asia, Indonesia shares with other BRICS members the support for the reform of global governance institutions. Indonesia also contributes significantly to the deepening of Global South cooperation, which aligns with Brazil’s 2025 presidency theme: Enhancing Global South Cooperation for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,” the statement read.
Indonesia’s membership followed its formal expression of interest after forming a new government. The BRICS nations unanimously approved the country’s entry in line with the principles and procedures for expansion agreed upon in Johannesburg.
BRICS originated in 2006 as a formal grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, and China (BRIC) during the G8 Outreach Summit in St. Petersburg. The bloc was officially established during a meeting of BRIC Foreign Ministers at the UN General Assembly later that year.
The first BRIC Summit took place in Yekaterinburg, Russia, in 2009. South Africa joined the bloc in 2010, transitioning it to BRICS, and attended the 3rd BRICS Summit in Sanya in 2011.
The group expanded further in 2024, with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates joining as new members. Indonesia’s induction marks a significant step in BRICS’ efforts to enhance representation and cooperation among Global South nations.
