Change Ahead?: Sustainable Governance in the BRICS

Change Ahead?: Sustainable Governance in the BRICS
Author: Bertelsmann Stiftung
Publisher: Verlag Bertelsmann Stiftung
Publication Year: 2014
 

About This Book
This book provides a comprehensive assessment of the governance capacities and political systems of the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—focusing on their ability to achieve sustainable development amid rapid economic growth. Utilizing the Sustainable Governance Indicators (SGI), it systematically evaluates the political performance, reform capacity, and institutional frameworks in 15 policy areas, including economic policy, social welfare, education, labor, health care, environmental policy, and innovation. The book highlights both the opportunities and structural challenges faced by these emerging powers, including social inequality, corruption, infrastructure deficits, demographic pressures, and environmental concerns.

The study compares each BRICS country in terms of reform capacity and governance effectiveness. Russia is identified as the weakest performer, hindered by clientelism, poor strategic planning, and limited institutional reform capacity. India shows significant national-level reform potential and strategic capacity but faces substantial social and regional disparities. China demonstrates long-term strategic planning strengths but faces risks from inequality, environmental pressures, and governance rigidity. South Africa exhibits adaptability and some governance improvements, yet enduring challenges remain in policy coordination and social service delivery. Brazil ranks highest in sustainable governance potential, with active civil society participation, effective social policies, and institutional stability, though strategic planning horizons need extension.

The book’s comparative approach offers insight into the strengths, weaknesses, and reform needs of each country, emphasizing that sustained growth alone is insufficient for addressing long-term social, environmental, and institutional challenges. It is a vital resource for policymakers, researchers, and analysts interested in governance, development, and sustainability in emerging economies.

Contents

Introduction: Successful Factors and Political Challenges of the BRICS

Measuring Governance

The BRICS’ Governance Capacities in Cross-National Comparison

Economic Policy and Social Affairs in the BRICS

Global Players in Research, Innovation and Knowledge: The BRICS

Conclusion: Beyond Growth – Pathways to Sustainability in the BRICS

Country Profiles

Appendix: Comprehensive List of Indicators