Executive Summary: In 2025, Indonesia has officially become a permanent member of BRICS, as announced by Brazil, the current chair of the group. This particular decision was endorsed by leaders during the Johannesburg Summit in 2023. As Indonesia joins the BRICS bloc, it is being seen as a constructive & supportive step towards global governance reforms. It is being viewed as a strategically conjugative decision because Indonesia’s membership will strengthen the group’s collective global influence. Indonesia’s potential inclusion in BRICS presents a significant opportunity for the country to enhance its global influence, economic growth, and regional leadership. While challenges exist, Indonesia’s accession to BRICS could be a game-changer for the country and the broader region.

Overview: Being the largest in terms of economy in the South-East Asian region & 4^th in rank in terms of population globally, Indonesia’s inclusion will fuel up the south-south commitment framework of BRICS. Indonesia’s membership is poised to play a central role in fostering mutual growth and strengthening partnerships among developing nations. Indonesia’s potential inclusion in the BRICS grouping has garnered significant attention in recent times. BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, represents a coalition of major emerging economies. Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous country and Southeast Asia’s largest economy, has been increasingly courted by the BRICS nations. Indonesia’s inclusion in BRICS would be a strategic move, given its geographic location, economic growth, and demographic dividend. With a population of over 270 million, Indonesia offers a significant market for BRICS countries. Its strategic location between the Indian and Pacific Oceans also makes it an important player in regional trade and security dynamics. The benefits of Indonesia’s inclusion in BRICS are multifaceted. It would provide Indonesia with access to new markets, technologies, and investment opportunities. BRICS membership would also enhance Indonesia’s global influence and provide a platform to shape international economic and political agendas. Furthermore, Indonesia’s inclusion would diversify the BRICS grouping, bringing in a new perspective from Southeast Asia and expanding the coalition’s geographic footprint.

However, Indonesia’s accession to BRICS is not without challenges. The country would need to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics, particularly given the existing tensions between BRICS members and Western nations. Additionally, Indonesia would need to balance its relationships with existing regional organizations, such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

Background:

Historical Context

Indonesia has been actively engaging with BRICS countries since 2011, when it was invited to attend the BRICS Summit in Sanya, China, as a guest country.

Economic Ties

Indonesia has strong economic ties with BRICS countries, particularly China, India, and Russia. In 2020, China was Indonesia’s largest trading partner, accounting for 18% of its total trade.

Regional Leadership

Indonesia has been a key player in regional organizations such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum.

BRICS Expansion

In 2022, BRICS leaders announced plans to expand the grouping to include new members. Indonesia, along with other countries such as Argentina, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates, has been mentioned as a potential candidate for membership.

Indonesian Government’s Stance

In 2023, Indonesian President Joko Widodo expressed interest in joining BRICS, citing the potential benefits for Indonesia’s economy and global influence.

Ongoing Discussions

Indonesia’s inclusion in BRICS is still being discussed, with no official announcement yet made. However, Indonesia’s engagement with BRICS countries continues to deepen, with ongoing cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and energy.

Strategic Analysis

Defiance and Critical Considerations: Indonesia’s inclusion & role playing in BRICS came at a volatile and very fragile timeline of the geopolitical landscape. Since, there is an extension of divisions amongst major key powers of the globe. There is a huge challenge awaiting balancing the overall geopolitical relationship with both western & non-western countries. Since it will play a crucial role in maintaining the all domains of strategic dynamics of international relations. Another major challenge which must be tackled is to maintain economic & political stability. Indonesia will need to maintain economic and political stability such that it can contribute effectively to achieve the BRICS’s goals and fulfil the objectives. They must also make sure that there will be no negative impact on its international relations.

Tactical Assessment: A new advantage rises up for Indonesia is that they can lessen the economic dependency on western markets as new opportunities are there as they can explore new trade opportunities with BRICS member states. As far as the amplification of diplomatic reach & influence is concerned, BRICS membership will provide a platform for them for any kind of bilateral & multilateral consultations. In terms of technological advancement, it’s now suitable for Indonesia to expedite bilateral agreements with superpowers like China & Russia to gain access to advanced technologies in diverse domains like Aerospace, renewable energy & nuclear facilities.

Recommendations: First & foremost, Indonesia should leverage BRICS membership to widen and expand its commercial & trade ties with member countries such that it can decrease the inclination towards traditional markets. Secondly, they should prioritize infrastructure development which includes upliftment & modernization of energy sectors, transportation systems, telecommunications etc. Then only trade relationships with member countries will take place decisively for them. Thirdly, they should promote indigenous Indonesian products focusing on the bloc’s large consumer base.

Future prospects & Conclusion: As Indonesia’s entry took place, BRICS will continue to expand its influence as a platform for developing nations to address global issues collectively. People-to-people exchange with BRICS countries, in terms of culture, education & tourism will take place. Social & environmental concerns related to BRICS membership will be addressed for social and environmental sustainability. Maritime cooperation will be enhanced through joint exercises, training and capacity building initiatives. Cybersecurity and all-round regional stability will be promoted.

Overall, Indonesia’s inclusion in BRICS reflects its proactive approach to foreign policy and diplomacy, seeking to navigate the complexities of a multipolar world while preserving its non-aligned stance and democratic values.