BRICS+: Current Agenda
type: channel
description: Editor-in-Chief: Inna Andronova, Doctor of Economic Sciences, Professor Published since: 2025. ISSN (online) ........ Publication frequency: quarterly Open Access Publication fee: No fees are charged. Peer review: Double-blind. Publication languages: English, Russian. Publisher: Patrice Lumumba Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University)
language: ru-RU
publication name: BRICS+: Current Agenda
copyright: All rights to the article belong to the authors. The authors grant the journal publisher the rights to use the article, including making the article available in open access, under the non-exclusive licence set forth below (Author Agreement (Public Offer)). All copyright remains with the authors. Author Agreement (Public Offer) on Publication of an Article in the Scientific Journal “BRICS+: Current Agenda” The Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education “Peoples' Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba” (RUDN University), represented by the First Vice-Rector–Vice-Rector for Research Andrey Aleksandrovich Kostin, acting on the basis of Power of Attorney dated 21 May 2025 №0036-09/25-122 (hereinafter referred to as the “Publisher”), on the one hand, hereby offers an indefinite group of persons (hereinafter referred to as the “Author”), on the other hand, and together hereinafter referred to as the “Parties”, to enter into this agreement (hereinafter referred to as the “Agreement”) on the publication of scientific materials (hereinafter referred to as the “Article”) in the scientific journal “BRICS+: Current Agenda” (hereinafter referred to as the “Journal”) under the terms and conditions set forth below. 1. General Provisions 1.1. This Agreement, pursuant to Article 437(2) of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, constitutes a public offer (hereinafter referred to as the “Offer”), full and unconditional acceptance (acceptance) of which, pursuant to Article 438 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, shall be deemed the submission by the Author of their materials by uploading them to the online electronic submission system for receiving articles for review, located in the relevant section of the Journal’s website at: https://bricsplus-j.ru in the information and telecommunications network “Internet” (hereinafter referred to as the “Internet”). 1.2. In accordance with the applicable legislation of the Russian Federat…
items: The Economic Development Potential of BRICS+ and the New Development Bank: A Comparative Analysis with the World Bank and the IMF
items: Features and Systematic Development of Digital Transformation in the Housing and Utilities Sector
items: Assessing ESG Commitment in BRICS Companies
items: BRICS+ Is a Strategic Platform for Cooperation Among Countries in an Unstable Global Political Environment
items: Evolution and Comparative Analysis of National Security Structures of BRICS Countries: Issues and Future Prospects for Integration
items: BRICS in Latin America: Opportunities and Constraints of Cooperation
items: Russia-China Cooperation in the Arctic: A Pathway to Technological Sovereignty
items: Afghanistan and BRICS: A SWOT Analysis of Integrating an Isolated State into New International Alliances
items: Economic Cooperation Among the Countries of the Global South: Institutional Transformations, Development Trajectories, and the Emerging Role of BRICS+
items: African Ethnophilosophy: Reflexive Models and Anthropological Insights
items: Problems of Contemporary Development of Traditional Chinese Music: Part 1
items: In Search of Russian Identity: Philosophical Themes in the Works of V.N. Belov

The Economic Development Potential of BRICS+ and the New Development Bank: A Comparative Analysis with the World Bank and the IMF
type: item
description: This article provides a comparative analysis of the roles played by the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with the current and potential role that the BRICS+ alliance through its New Development Bank (NDB) in both financing and developing policy recommendations aimed at economic development among member countries. The World Bank and IMF have traditionally been the main institutions influencing global economic policies. However, the emergence of BRICS+ as a significant player in the global economy has added a new dimension to this landscape. While the Bretton Woods institutions promoted and often imposed neoliberal policies on countries recipients of financing, the NDB places its focus on strengthening their economic sovereignty. Using quantitative and qualitative methods, the article examines the approaches, methodologies, and implications of these institutions in providing financing and advice to countries seeking to strengthen their economic sovereignty. Drawing on a wide range of academic literature, official documents, and case studies, this article highlights the various strategies employed by these institutions and assesses their effectiveness in supporting countries in implementing sovereign economic policies. Based on this, the article provides recommendations for the wider and more comprehensive approach of the BRICS+ and its NDB in order to improve its effectiveness to help its member countries in meeting the challenges of the multipolar world that is shaping up.
creator: Goran Sumkoski
creator: Roman V. Manshin
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Sumkoski G., Manshin R.V. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 145
ending page: 161

Features and Systematic Development of Digital Transformation in the Housing and Utilities Sector
type: item
description: The article presents a systematic analysis of digital transformation in the housing and communal services (HCS) sector. Methods of comparative analysis, data synthesis, and a systemic approach were used to identify key directions of digitalization, such as the integration of BIM, IoT, and artificial intelligence platforms, as well as the automation of resource accounting and management. An analysis of the effectiveness of digital solutions was conducted, main barriers were identified, and recommendations for the development of the regulatory framework and personnel training were proposed. The results confirm the importance of a systematic approach to improving service quality and sustainable development of the HCS sector. This work contributes to expanding scientific understanding of digital transformation and may serve as a basis for further research and practical developments.
creator: Anna Y. Verenikina
creator: Alexey S. Budakov
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Verenikina A.Y., Budakov A.S. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 162
ending page: 177

Assessing ESG Commitment in BRICS Companies
type: item
description: While Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are globally recognized, their implementation within the BRICS bloc is uniquely complex due to diverse socio-economic contexts, varied institutional environments, and the largely discretionary nature of ESG reporting. Existing research points to substantial disparities in ESG performance among these nations, yet a systematic comparative analysis remains underexplored. This study aims to quantitatively assess and compare the level and nature of ESG commitment within leading companies across the BRICS nations to illuminate these distinct national priorities. The study employs a term frequency (TF) methodology to analyze non-financial corporate reports from the top 10 publicly listed companies in each BRICS country, selected by market capitalization and other financial indicators. A specialized ESG dictionary was developed based on Bloomberg’s rating methodology and categorized into four pillars: Environmental (E), Social (S), Governance (G), and Methodological (M). A Python script was used to calculate the frequency of these terms, providing a quantitative measure of disclosure focus. The analysis revealed significant heterogeneity in ESG reporting priorities across the bloc. Russian companies demonstrated the highest frequency of Environmental and Social terms. Chinese companies showed the strongest focus on Governance terminology. Brazilian companies led in the usage of Methodological and analytical terms. Overall ESG engagement, measured by total term frequency, was highest in China, followed by Brazil, with South Africa showing the lowest levels of disclosure.
creator: Svetlana V. Ratner
creator: Marat V. Arutiunian
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Ratner S.V., Arutiunian M.V. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 178
ending page: 191

BRICS+ Is a Strategic Platform for Cooperation Among Countries in an Unstable Global Political Environment
type: item
description: The article analyzes the opportunities and main directions for developing the BRICS+ partnership and those who wish to join, emphasizing the importance of ensuring national conditions for the balanced development of all areas of the state’s life, including the economy, science, industry, education, information space, and social environment. The emerging strategic platform for cooperation should contribute to solving humanitarian issues and creating conditions for political and economic development, which will serve as an important foundation for the sustainability and prosperity of countries. This can only be achieved through the construction of a unified and indivisible security construct on the Eurasian continent.
creator: Regina A. Yavchunovskay
creator: Dmitry F. Gurinovich
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Yavchunovskay R.A., Gurinovich D.F. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 192
ending page: 198

Evolution and Comparative Analysis of National Security Structures of BRICS Countries: Issues and Future Prospects for Integration
type: item
description: The growing geopolitical importance of the BRICS group, in the midst of the international liberal order’s crisis, requires a thorough analysis of the basic components of the state sovereignty of its members - their National Security Systems (NSS). The aim of this study is to determine common patterns and distinctive features in the architecture and strategic directions of the NSS of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa as founding member-states of the group, with a simultaneous focus on evaluating the prospects for their unification within the framework of creating a polycentric system of international governance. The methodology for the study is founded on a systematic and comparative study of official strategic documents, legislative documents, scientific works, and statements from political elites. The study’s outcomes indicate that, in spite of fundamental distinctions in political systems, all BRICS nations demonstrate a comprehensive approach towards security, with economic, energy, and informational dimensions, corresponding with their role of so-called “emerging powers” or “rising powers”. The fundamental finding is that the full institutional unification of the BRICS NSS is impossible due to fundamental distinctions in political regimes, mutually antagonistic national interests, and differing threat perceptions, corresponding with the basic assumptions of the neorealist school. Nevertheless, the study determines promising directions for limited and situational unification in the area of non-traditional threats of a security nature, such as cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and military-technical coordination, corresponding with the logic of neoliberal institutionalism. Prospects for such interaction within BRICS do not reside within the creation of a hard alliance framework, but rather with the formation of a “flexible geometry” and network interaction on specific, non-ideologized directions for interstate interaction, corresponding with a model o…
creator: Leonid G. Abdrakhimov
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Abdrakhimov L.G. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 199
ending page: 207

BRICS in Latin America: Opportunities and Constraints of Cooperation
type: item
description: The article examines the prospects and challenges associated with the potential expansion of BRICS in the Latin American region. The research is based on the application of PESTLE and SWOT analytical frameworks, which make it possible to structure the factors of interaction and provide a systematic assessment of its dynamics. The paper consistently examines the key determinants of this process. The political context is shaped by the counteraction of the United States, the intra-regional dynamics of the “pink tide,” and Brazil’s role as a regional leader within the bloc. Economic factors - such as the complementarity of national economies, access to investments from the New Development Bank, and opportunities to enter new markets - serve as the main incentives for Latin American countries. In addition, the study highlights the influence of social factors, particularly the pro-Western orientation of regional states, as well as the importance of technological cooperation and legal aspects related to the informal status of BRICS. The authors identify the strengths (economic potential, ideological appeal) and opportunities (amplification of the “Global South” voice, implementation of infrastructure projects) that foster closer cooperation. At the same time, the paper outlines the weaknesses (institutional amorphousness, internal contradictions) and threats (external geopolitical pressure, regional instability) that constrain the integration of Latin American countries into the BRICS framework. In conclusion, the authors argue that the most sustainable form of engagement could be the “BRICS+” model, which envisages expanding the circle of dialogue partners without granting full membership. This approach would make it possible to minimize risks and strengthen the position of the association in the global system.
creator: Denis A. Kuznetsov
creator: Anastasia S. Ukkonen
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Kuznetsov D.A., Ukkonen A.S. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 208
ending page: 217

Russia-China Cooperation in the Arctic: A Pathway to Technological Sovereignty
type: item
description: This article examines Russian-Chinese cooperation in the Arctic, with the primary objective of assessing its role in advancing technological sovereignty and safeguarding the national interests of both states. It reviews domestic scholarly perspectives in Russia and China on sovereignty challenges and strategic threats, and explores bilateral mechanisms for mitigating these risks. The study also analyzes the implementation of current and recently updated Arctic strategies of both nations. The findings indicate that while Russia and China maintain distinct national priorities, their strategic interests largely converge, thereby strengthening the potential for sustained bilateral cooperation in the Arctic region
creator: Sergei B. Zainullin
creator: Shuang Lei
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Zainullin S.B., Lei S. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 218
ending page: 228

Afghanistan and BRICS: A SWOT Analysis of Integrating an Isolated State into New International Alliances
type: item
description: This article examines Afghanistan’s potential integration into the BRICS framework amid its profound international isolation following the Taliban’s* return to power in 2021. The central research question explores whether and how Afghanistan - despite lacking formal diplomatic recognition, facing severe socio-economic constraints, and implementing restrictive domestic policies - can engage with BRICS and its expanded BRICS+ formats. To address this, the study employs a qualitative SWOT analysis grounded in a systematic review of academic literature, policy documents, and official reports, integrating insights from key scholarly works on regional integration, SCO-BRICS dynamics, and the structural challenges of expanded BRICS cooperation. The analysis reveals that while Afghanistan possesses strategic geographic positioning, vast mineral resources, and growing interest from BRICS members in infrastructure and humanitarian cooperation, its path to meaningful engagement is hindered by non-recognition, institutional fragility, gender-based restrictions, and persistent security threats - particularly from Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISIS Khorasan)**. The findings suggest that Afghanistan’s most viable trajectory lies in phased, low-threshold participation through BRICS+ thematic dialogues and project-based initiatives (e. g., the Trans-Afghan Railway and mining ventures), which could gradually enhance its diplomatic agency. However, without significant improvements in governance, macroeconomic stability, and human capital inclusivity, Afghanistan risks remaining a “passive beneficiary” rather than an active co-shaper within the emerging BRICS-led order.
creator: Daniyal Ranjbar Meshkin
creator: Mirways N. Atsakzai
creator: Denis A. Koropenko
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Ranjbar Meshkin D., Atsakzai M.N., Koropenko D.A. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 229
ending page: 238

Economic Cooperation Among the Countries of the Global South: Institutional Transformations, Development Trajectories, and the Emerging Role of BRICS+
type: item
description: Economic cooperation among the countries of the Global South is reshaping the architecture of the world economy amid growing geopolitical fragmentation and the erosion of traditional centers of global influence. This article examines the structural foundations, institutional mechanisms, and new forms of South-South cooperation across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East, focusing particularly on the coordination potential of the BRICS+ framework. The research employs comparative institutional analysis, network modeling of trade and investment linkages, and documentary analysis of national development strategies and multilateral agreements. The results reveal three major transformations: 1) the formation of transregional production and logistics corridors that bypass traditional global hubs; 2) accelerated institutionalization of new financial platforms and local-currency mechanisms; and 3) increasing technological and industrial collaboration within the Global South. The discussion highlights the persistent challenges of institutional heterogeneity, infrastructure asymmetry, and regulatory fragmentation, while also identifying strategic pathways for deepening cooperation. The article concludes that BRICS+ is evolving into a systemic coordination hub with the capacity to integrate regional initiatives and amplify the development potential of the Global South.
creator: Hande C. Terzioglu
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Terzioglu H.C. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 239
ending page: 245

African Ethnophilosophy: Reflexive Models and Anthropological Insights
type: item
description: The article examines two forms of African ethnic philosophy - Bantu and Ubuntu - that have been evolving in the postcolonial period of the continent. It highlights the core principles and the categorical framework of ethnophilosophy, rooted in the indigenous values and traditions of African peoples. The analysis focuses on Bantu philosophy, widespread in Southern Africa and theoretically founded in Placide Tempels’ seminal work Bantu Philosophy. The study emphasizes the ontological and anthropocentric nature of Bantu thought, which is based on the belief in a special life force permeating the peoples belonging to this broad ethnic group. It explores the worldview of African ethnic communities shaped by Bantu philosophy and discusses the pursuit of identity through this philosophical lens. The article also identifies the metaphysical principles of Ubuntu ethnophilosophy, where ubuntu means “humanity” in Zulu. Ubuntu, as both a worldview and a mode of theorizing among sub-Saharan peoples, encapsulates two fundamental dimensions: rootedness in cosmic being and the unfolding of human existence within the universe. The study traces certain paradigmatic features of Ubuntu as a philosophy that transcends specific ethnic communities. It introduces the African conceptualization of umuntu, which, in a universal philosophical sense, denotes the notion of a human being. The article underscores the significance of both Bantu and Ubuntu philosophies for the social, cultural, educational, and political development of the African continent
creator: Olga V. Chistyakova
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Chistyakova O.V. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 246
ending page: 252

Problems of Contemporary Development of Traditional Chinese Music: Part 1
type: item
description: In the formation and development of contemporary Chinese musical practice, the issues of external influences and national identity have become matters of significant concern at the state level. In recent years, scholars in China have increasingly noted that traditional musicology should not be restricted in its use of global methodologies and approaches within music science. Traditional music represents an essential component of Chinese culture and is characterized by its diversity and complexity. This paper focuses on the specificity of musical thinking in traditional Chinese music, the modern development of its styles and genres, and the influence of traditional Chinese music on contemporary composers. It also seeks to outline possible pathways for the future development of China’s national music, drawing on an analysis of relevant historical facts and classical Chinese musical works.
creator: Lifu Zhang
creator: Elena V. Gradova
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Zhang L., Gradova E.V. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 253
ending page: 269

In Search of Russian Identity: Philosophical Themes in the Works of V.N. Belov
type: item
description: In recent years, increasing attention has been devoted to the issue of Russian identity. In this context, there is a growing need for a detailed exploration of the phenomenon of Russian identity under contemporary conditions. This article examines Russian philosophy as a key factor shaping Russia’s national identity. Special emphasis is placed on the works of Professor Vladimir Nikolaevich Belov, a leading scholar in the history of Russian philosophy.
creator: Anastasia V. Lebedeva
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Lebedeva A.V. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-07-07
publication date: 2026-07-07
volume: 1
number: 2
starting page: 270
ending page: 278