A recent forum gathering the Academies of Science from the BRICS nations in Rio de Janeiro has sparked a significant proposal: forming a network to tackle climate challenges. This initiative aims to improve energy transition technologies and develop collaborative artificial intelligence projects.
With the BRICS group now including ten countries—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newcomers like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Iran—the potential for cooperation is immense. The forum’s statement emphasized the pressing need for unity, noting that a fragmented world filled with trade barriers and environmental issues makes collaboration more crucial than ever.
The participants also pointed out a concerning gap in scientific collaboration among BRICS members. While there is substantial potential for joint research and innovation, the current levels are far from what they could be. The statement warned that without collective effort, these opportunities might slip by, hindering progress in addressing socioeconomic disparities and environmental concerns.
Helena Nader, president of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences, reinforced this idea, urging governments, institutions, and civil society to collaborate with scientists. She believes that knowledge and innovation should be the cornerstones of a revitalized effort for the Global South.
Historically, BRICS has aimed to shift toward a multipolar world order, providing an alternative to Western-dominated structures. As these nations strengthen their ties, their ability to influence global policies on health, development, and environmental sustainability grows.
Recent statistics add weight to this argument. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, 67% of scientists from developing countries feel that collaboration can significantly enhance research quality. This sentiment echoes the views of BRICS participants who believe that uniting resources and expertise can lead to groundbreaking advancements.
As the BRICS Summit approaches on July 6 and 7, the focus remains on harnessing scientific cooperation to build a strong foundation for future innovations and sustainable growth in the Global South.
For more insights on global partnerships in science, you can explore the World Economic Forum report.