“BRICS acts as a powerful counterweight in global governance, actively amplifying the voice and influence of the Global South.” Explain the role of BRICS in projecting itself as an alternative to other groupings. (Answer in 150 words)

- “BRICS acts as a powerful counterweight in global governance, actively amplifying the voice and influence of the Global South.” Explain the role of BRICS in projecting itself as an alternative to other groupings. (Answer in 150 words)
Introduction
BRICS has evolved from an economic grouping into a broader platform seeking to reform global governance and amplify the Global South’s voice, thereby presenting an alternative to Western-dominated institutions.
Body
Role as an Alternative Grouping:
1. Expanded Representation: Its enlargement to 11 members, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE and Indonesia, increases the representation of emerging economies.
2. Financial Alternative: The New Development Bank (NDB) provides infrastructure and sustainable-development finance, while promoting greater local-currency lending, reducing dependence on traditional Bretton Woods institutions.
3. Governance Reform: BRICS consistently demands greater representation of developing countries in the IMF, World Bank and UN institutions.
4. South-South Cooperation: Cooperation in trade, agriculture, technology, health and energy creates parallel platforms for developing countries.
5. Multipolarity: Consensus-based functioning projects BRICS as a forum independent of Western strategic alliances.
Limitations:
Internal geopolitical differences, economic asymmetry and divergent foreign-policy interests constrain collective action.
Conclusion
Thus, BRICS is not replacing existing institutions, but is increasingly providing the Global South with alternative financing, representation and bargaining power in an emerging multipolar order.