The 17th BRICS Summit, held in Rio de Janeiro on 6 July 2025, culminated in a landmark Final Declaration titled “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” This document not only reaffirms the bloc’s foundational spirit of multilateralism, equity, and development but also presents a bold and comprehensive vision for reimagining global governance in the 21st century. Bringing together 11 of the world’s largest emerging economies, the declaration reflects the growing weight and unity of the Global South in shaping international norms and institutions. Through 126 commitments spanning climate, finance, health, artificial intelligence, and governance reform, BRICS 2025 has sent a clear message: the Global South is not a passive participant but an active architect of a new world order.
A Collective Commitment, Strengthened by Individual ContributionsThe strength of this year’s declaration lies in its collective vision and the distinct contributions of each national leader, highlighting the diversity and unity of purpose within the expanded BRICS grouping.
Brazil – President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva: Leading the Charge on Climate and GovernanceAs the host, President Lula da Silva emphasized the need to align global governance with contemporary multipolar realities. “If global governance does not correspond to the new multipolar reality of the 21st century, then the task of BRICS is to promote its renewal,” he stated in his address. Under his leadership, Brazil introduced transformative initiatives such as the Tropical Forest Forever Fund (TFFF) and thematic declarations on Climate Finance, Global AI Governance, and Health Equity. Lula’s presidency marked a shift in BRICS from a consultative body to an institution-shaping force.
