How does BRICS seek to project itself as a defender of multilateralism amid the resurgence of unilateralism? Analyse the structural contradictions within the grouping that complicate this role. Discuss the implications of these contradictions for the future of global multilateral institutions.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
Q4. How does BRICS seek to project itself as a defender of multilateralism amid the resurgence of unilateralism? Analyse the structural contradictions within the grouping that complicate this role. Discuss the implications of these contradictions for the future of global multilateral institutions. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question The resurgence of unilateral trade actions and sanctions has challenged the credibility of existing multilateral institutions, making the evolving role of groupings like BRICS relevant to assess from a global governance perspective. Key Demand of the question The question requires explaining how BRICS projects itself as a supporter of multilateralism, examining the internal structural contradictions that constrain this role, and analysing how these tensions shape the future functioning of global multilateral institutions. Structure of the Answer: Introduction Briefly situate BRICS within the context of weakening multilateralism and growing unilateralism, highlighting its claim to represent reform-oriented Global South interests. Body Projection of multilateralism: Indicate BRICS’ normative commitments, collective declarations and institution-building efforts as expressions of support for rule-based global cooperation. Structural contradictions: Suggest internal diversity in strategic alignments, economic asymmetries and expansion-related coordination challenges that complicate collective action. Implications for global institutions: Point to pressures for reform, risks of fragmented governance and the possibility of BRICS acting as a bridge rather than an alternative bloc. Conclusion Conclude by indicating that BRICS’ future credibility as a multilateral defender will depend on managing internal contradictions while engaging constructively with existing global institutions.
Why the question The resurgence of unilateral trade actions and sanctions has challenged the credibility of existing multilateral institutions, making the evolving role of groupings like BRICS relevant to assess from a global governance perspective.
Key Demand of the question The question requires explaining how BRICS projects itself as a supporter of multilateralism, examining the internal structural contradictions that constrain this role, and analysing how these tensions shape the future functioning of global multilateral institutions.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction Briefly situate BRICS within the context of weakening multilateralism and growing unilateralism, highlighting its claim to represent reform-oriented Global South interests.
• Projection of multilateralism: Indicate BRICS’ normative commitments, collective declarations and institution-building efforts as expressions of support for rule-based global cooperation.
• Structural contradictions: Suggest internal diversity in strategic alignments, economic asymmetries and expansion-related coordination challenges that complicate collective action.
• Implications for global institutions: Point to pressures for reform, risks of fragmented governance and the possibility of BRICS acting as a bridge rather than an alternative bloc.
Conclusion Conclude by indicating that BRICS’ future credibility as a multilateral defender will depend on managing internal contradictions while engaging constructively with existing global institutions.