Head of BRICS Expert Council‑Russia Met with InteRussia Participants

Victoria Panova, Head of the BRICS Expert Council‑Russia and Vice Rector at HSE University, met in Moscow with participants of the InteRussia fellowship programme for journalists from South Asian countries. The topic of discussion was one of the key issues in contemporary global politics: "Chaos in International Relations: Is BRICS Alive?"

The meeting was attended by journalists from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka, who are undertaking internships in Russia as part of the InteRussia programme.

Opening the discussion, Victoria Panova emphasised that the modern international system is at a turning point. In her view, many international institutions are facing a crisis of trust and legitimacy, while the world order is undergoing a profound transformation.

The meeting focused on the role of BRICS in the emerging global order. According to Victoria Panova, many Global Majority nations currently see the group as a possible alternative to existing formats of international cooperation. At the same time, BRICS does not seek to replace universal institutions such as the United Nations, but rather to complement them by offering more inclusive and fair mechanisms for cooperation.

Victoria Panova stressed that one of BRICS's distinctive features is its horizontal structure, which requires seeking consensus among states with differing interests and political positions. This principle makes decision‑making more complex, but at the same time ensures the group's long‑term sustainability.

Responding to journalists' questions about the group's expansion prospects, Panova noted that the criteria for accession have already been formulated and include, among other things, a commitment to multilateral cooperation and maintaining constructive relations with member states. At the same time, alongside full membership, the partner country format is being developed, allowing for expanded cooperation without the need for immediate membership.

Participants also discussed the role of BRICS in the context of growing international conflicts. Panova emphasised that the group is not a military bloc and does not have a mandate to intervene in security issues. However, the BRICS countries can play an important role in maintaining dialogue and finding diplomatic solutions. She proposed the creation of a BRICS humanitarian fund to provide assistance to populations affected by conflicts and disasters as one possible initiative.

The meeting, held in an open discussion format, allowed the fellowship participants to explore key trends in global politics, the prospects for BRICS development, and the role of the Global South nations in shaping the future of the international system together with a Russian expert.