BRICS

In 2025, Brazil assumes the rotating presidency of BRICS under the central theme “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” This period represents a strategic opportunity for the country to lead relevant discussions, highlighting culture as an essential tool for promoting a multipolar, diverse, and strengthened world. The initiatives aim to foster sustainability, social inclusion, and joint solutions to global governance challenges.

Cultural Commitment

BRICS, originally composed of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, was joined by South Africa in 2010. More recently, there was a new expansion process, with the incorporation of new members: Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Iran, and Indonesia. These countries were invited to join the group during the 15th Summit, held in Johannesburg in August 2023, with Indonesia formalizing its membership in 2024.

Culture is recognized as one of the 15 priority areas of cooperation among BRICS member countries. The group understands culture as a strategic vector for sustainable development, promotion of intercultural dialogue, and strengthening of Global South peoples’ identity.

Brazil’s Performance in BRICS Cultural Area

During the Brazilian presidency, the country has promoted significant actions in the cultural sphere. Notable is the realization of the 1st Technical Meeting of the BRICS Culture Working Group, which addressed themes such as creative economy and Artificial Intelligence, culture in the global climate change debate, and return of cultural assets. These discussions reinforce Brazil’s commitment to the vision of a strengthened BRICS, with the creative economy contributing to sustainable and inclusive development, as well as to the safeguarding, promotion, and protection of member countries’ cultural heritage.

Brazil proposes joint action that respects each nation’s cultural specificities while strengthening a shared vision of culture as a common good. The initiatives include meetings, forums, and integrated actions that promote exchange of experiences and valorization of each country’s cultural expressions.

Importance of BRICS Themes for the Ministry of Culture

For the Ministry of Culture, the themes addressed within BRICS are fundamental for consolidating cultural policies that promote social inclusion and sustainable and inclusive economic development. Cultural and creative industries are seen as drivers of economic growth and social inclusion, playing a strategic role in fostering innovation, creating qualified jobs, and greater participation of youth and women.

Brazil’s BRICS presidency in 2025 reinforces the country’s commitment to leading initiatives that value culture as an instrument of social transformation and sustainable development, promoting cooperation among Global South countries.