The latest meeting of BRICS foreign ministers shows a clear effort to seek reforms in the global system without breaking away from it entirely. The group is pressing for a fairer world order that gives more space and voice to developing countries, but at the same time, it accepts that the existing structures like the UN, IMF, and World Bank cannot be ignored. This is a balanced stance, as a complete rejection of the system would create instability, while engagement allows for steady change.However, the challenge is steep. The dominance of the US dollar in trade and reserves highlights how deeply entrenched the current system is. While BRICS countries have spoken about alternatives, such as using local currencies in trade and strengthening their own financial networks, these moves are still small in scale. Without real unity and commitment, their call for reform risks sounding more aspirational than practical.
If BRICS is to be taken seriously, it must go beyond statements and create strong institutions of its own. It should also build wider partnerships with other countries that share its concerns about inequality in global governance. Only then can BRICS push reforms that are lasting and credible, and ensure that the global order evolves into one that is more balanced and multipolar.