Article – The expansion of the BRICS in Africa: What are the challenges for the candidate countries?
The 15th summit of the Brics (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) which is currently being held in Johannesburg highlights the will of this bloc to extend its influence in the world. Many African countries have expressed interest in joining the BRICS, including Egypt and Algeria. As a specialist in geopolitics and economics, I will analyze the stakes of a possible membership for these African countries, as well as the expectations of the BRICS vis-à-vis these new partnerships.
First of all, it should be stressed that China, as a major member of the BRICS, occupies a central place in the expectations of the candidate countries. However, it is important to note that China is currently going through an economic crisis and its export-based development model is being challenged. This raises concerns about the terms of loans and future financing provided by China to African countries.
Other member countries of the BRICS, such as India and Russia, also raise expectations from African candidate countries. India, in particular, is on the rise economically and is showing growing interest in expanding into Africa. India already accounts for a significant share of trade with the African continent. On the other hand, Russia is encountering greater economic difficulties and does not have the necessary resources to support its policy of expansion. As for Brazil, they are looking to catch up, but their commitment to Africa has been limited in recent years.
On the side of the candidate African countries, joining the BRICS has several motivations. First of all, it is a question of standing out from the current geopolitical polarization and of freeing oneself from the influence of traditional powers. African countries seek to show their independence and position themselves as major players on the international scene. In addition, Africa plays a crucial role in the energy transition and has strategic natural resources, which arouses the interest of the Brics who wish to strengthen their economic relations with the continent.
In conclusion, the expansion of the BRICS in Africa raises many challenges for the candidate countries as well as for the bloc itself. African countries see this membership as an opportunity to strengthen their independence and benefit from new economic partnerships. For the Brics, Africa represents a land of the future with strong economic potential and a young and creative population. However, it is essential that the expectations and interests of the different actors are aligned in order to guarantee a mutually beneficial cooperation