The BRICS+ Summit in Kazan, Russia: Five Things to Watch

Abstract

With the admission of four new members in January 2024, BRICS+ has become a prominent player in global politics. The upcoming Kazan summit will see debates about further strategic expansion, de-dollarisation, and other initiatives favoured by host country Russia. Yet, internal complexities should temper any expectations of impactful outcomes. Collectively, BRICS+ member states strive to present themselves as the voice of the Global South. Since many countries have expressed an interest in joining the bloc, the question of expansion is expected to be on the table again. Nevertheless, the focus will probably be on precise accession criteria and the introduction of BRICS "partner-country status" rather than on further increasing the number of formal members at this point in time. Russia is likely to exploit its position as host country to promote its own initiatives and geopolitical as well as economic interests. De-dollarisation, a recurring theme in the discussions taking place among BRICS+ members, illustrates the group's strategic vision for the future. Despite the lofty aspirations here, the policy's swift implementation is unlikely.