Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous nation and home to the largest Muslim population, has been formally announced as a full member of BRICS, the bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. This move marks a significant expansion of the group, which now includes key players from the Global South, amplifying their collective voice on the world stage.
Brazil’s government confirmed on Monday that BRICS member states had approved Indonesia’s entry during the 2023 summit in Johannesburg. However, Jakarta requested a delay until after its presidential election. President Prabowo Subianto, who assumed office in October 2024, has since overseen the country’s inclusion in the bloc.
Indonesia’s foreign ministry hailed the announcement, stating that BRICS membership offers a “strategic way to increase collaboration and partnership with other developing nations.” Indonesia joins BRICS at a time when the bloc is championing reforms in global governance and strengthening cooperation among emerging economies.
This latest expansion follows the inclusion of Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates in 2024. With Indonesia’s entry, BRICS now represents nearly half a billion Muslims, bolstering the bloc’s significance as a powerful voice for the Global South and a platform to address shared challenges among developing nations.
