Russia, BRICS, and the Transformation of the International System

Russia, BRICS, and the Transformation of the International System
Authors: Mohammad-Ali Shirkhani, Mohsen Chitsaz
Journal: Central Asia and the Caucasus Studies Quarterly (Motale‘at-e Asiya-ye Markazi va Ghafghaz)
Volume: 26
Issue: 111
Year: Autumn 1399 (2020)

Article introduction
This article analyzes Russia’s role in forming BRICS and the group’s impact on the structure of the international system. Using a descriptive–analytical method, it examines Russia’s goals and those of other BRICS members in moderating the global order and building multipolarity, and assesses the degree of alignment between national goals and the group’s overall direction.
The findings show that BRICS, while unable to directly transform global governance institutions, has increased the relative influence of its members—especially Russia and China—in international economic bodies such as the IMF and the G20. Through synergy among members, BRICS seeks to reduce US influence and decentralize global power, while each member strengthens its international voice and presence within the group.
For Russia, BRICS not only enhances political and economic power but also serves as a tool for countering Western hegemony and weakening US influence. Following the Ukraine crisis and international sanctions, BRICS has served as a support base for Russia in facing global pressures, reflecting its strategy to rebuild its status in the international system and contribute to shifting global political economy toward multipolarity and polycentrism.