Towards a Global Coalition: Gulf countries, BRICS+, and the Future of the Global Order
The BRICS+ (Argentina, Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South
Africa, United Arab Emirates) consortium is widely recognized as a manifestation of the broader
trend termed the 'Rise of the Rest' in contrast to the West. This phenomenon, emblematic of
contemporary international relations, reflects the evolving economic, political, and military capacities
of individual states and their alliances, contribut ...
Abstract
The BRICS+ (Argentina, Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South
Africa, United Arab Emirates) consortium is widely recognized as a manifestation of the broader
trend termed the 'Rise of the Rest' in contrast to the West. This phenomenon, emblematic of
contemporary international relations, reflects the evolving economic, political, and military capacities
of individual states and their alliances, contributing to a discernible decline in the once-hegemonic
dominance of the Western powers. Concurrently, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has
traditionally been perceived as an alliance formed during an era when Western collaboration with oilproducing nations was imperative.
Nevertheless, there exists potential for enhanced connectivity between the GCC countries (Saudi
Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman) and BRICS+, particularly with the inclusion of Saudi
Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, grounded in their complementarities and capacity to manage
differences. This potential is rooted in BRICS' ascendance to a pivotal role in international
development and cooperation, juxtaposed with the GCC countries' continued centrality as key global
energy suppliers. The amalgamation of these blocs has the potential to fortify their respective
positions on the global stage.
This evolving landscape provides an intriguing case study wherein the combination of GCC and
BRICS dynamics occurs in the context of the United States maintaining its significant role as a global
player. Amidst the ongoing power struggles and substantial geopolitical realignments, strategic and
economic convergences between BRICS and the GCC may emerge, further shaping the global
geopolitical landscape.
The goal of this workshop is to comprehensively explore from multiple perspectives the evolving
dynamics between the GCC and the BRICS consortium. It aims to attract participants from diverse
disciplines and sectors such as policymakers, educators, researchers, innovators, and experts in
relevant fields. The resulting exchange of knowledge is crucial to enriching and contributing to a
nuanced and well-informed discourse on the evolving relationship between the GCC and the BRICS+.
The emphasis is placed on garnering practical insights and formulating actionable recommendations,
thereby equipping stakeholders with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of this
transformative geopolitical landscape.
Description and Rationale
The landscape of global governance has undergone a profound transformation, contrasting the
ascendancy of Western powers with the growth trajectories of prominent Global South countries
(Niblock, 2017). The BRICS, which was first composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South
Africa, has emerged as an alternative new coalition in global governance, challenging established
groups such as the G-7. The BRICS embarked on a trajectory of economic and international political
ascendancy characterized by rapid economic growth, expanded geopolitical influence, and the
assertion of their positions on the global stage. Rooted in diverse regions and representing a
substantial portion of the world's population and resources, they collectively aimed to challenge the
status quo of global governance. Their rise is driven by inter alia economic and geopolitical growth
in the 21st century, which has significantly reshaped global governance and amplified the voices of
the global South. Notably, in 2023, the BRICS expanded by welcoming two GCC countries, Saudi
Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as Iran, Egypt, Argentina, and Ethiopia (from now on
we refer to the expanded coalition as BRICS+).
The workshop aims to delve into the importance of the BRICS in international relations, evaluating
its role in global governance and providing an overview of existing theoretical perspectives. The goal
is to understand both the national and institutional successes and failures of the BRICS while
exploring the theoretical discussions surrounding global governance and regionalism. The inclusion
of Gulf nations enriches the identity of the BRICS and broadens its influence in global politics. The
workshop seeks to comprehensively investigate the multifaceted dimensions of this relationship,
which includes economic partnerships, diplomacy, public policy exchanges, and collaborative efforts
to address global challenges.
One significant aspect of BRICS' collective action is their commitment to reshaping global
governance by incorporating ideas and interests from the global South onto the international agenda.
These nations aimed to foster a more equitable and inclusive international order, reflecting the
changing power dynamics in a multipolar world. They have challenged the dominance of traditional
informal organizations such as the G-7, advocating for greater representation and decision-making
power for emerging economies and developing nations.
Over the years, the BRICS has evolved from a loose coalition of emerging powers to a more
institutionalized entity, establishing the BRICS Development Bank and a think-tank network
dedicated to policy research and coordination. However, one of the most significant developments
occurred in 2023 when the BRICS coalition expanded its membership. This move underscores the
BRICS+ aspiration to be a more inclusive and representative coalition, encompassing a diverse array
of countries and regions.
Focus/objectives
This workshop's rationale is rooted in the growing importance of the BRICS and GCC partnership on
the global stage, driven by several key factors that necessitate a comprehensive examination.
First, the emergence of non-western coalitions, such as the BRICS+, challenges traditional global
governance structures. As China, India, and Brazil rise as economic and political powerhouses, their
interactions with GCC countries introduce a new dynamic to international relations. Understanding
how these agents shape global agendas is crucial. Second, the economic partnerships between BRICS
countries and GCC nations are expanding rapidly, encompassing trade, investment, and development
initiatives. These interactions hold immense economic potential and have implications for global
trade routes and resource distribution. Third, the diplomatic initiatives between these regions play a
pivotal role in addressing regional conflicts, contributing to peace and stability, and asserting their
collective influence on global issues. Examining their diplomatic strategies and engagements offers
insights into their evolving roles as regional and global actors.
The primary aim of this workshop is to address the existing knowledge gap by fostering a
multidisciplinary dialogue on the BRICS+ and GCC partnership. We aim to provide a platform for
scholars, policymakers, and experts to engage in critical discussions, share insights, and advance our
understanding of the evolving dynamics between the BRICS+ and GCC. Through rigorous analysis,
we aim to shed light on the motivations, challenges, and potential impacts of this burgeoning coalition
on global affairs.
It seeks to discuss the evolving relationships, challenges, and opportunities that arise from the BRICS'
expansion to include GCC countries. Despite the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and geopolitical
orientations of the BRICS+ and the GCC, they share common interests and concerns. The evolving
dynamics of this collaboration in an altered geopolitical landscape require thorough examination. We
expect papers discussing different issues, concepts, and theories from the perspective of the BRICS+.
Paper proposals can focus on thematic or country case studies about the BRICS+, as well as
comparative studies between one or more BRICS+ countries and one or more Gulf countries. For
example, Brazil and GCC or Brazil and Qatar or China, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates
or the BRICS+ and the GCC, and so on. Finally, analysis can also focus on the BRICS+ and other
formal and informal organizations (e.g., the African Union, the OECD, G7, G20, etc), as well as on
its relation with civil society and the private sector.
Papers focus/topics
1. BRICS+ and GCC in the global agendas
1.1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): One of the central themes of this workshop is to analyze
how the BRICS+ consortium is influencing global agendas, such as the 2030 Agenda, the New Urban
Agenda, or the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. The inclusion of GCC nations in this partnership extends
its reach, potentially impacting global actions in different areas of human life, such as in fighting
against hunger and poverty, industry innovation and infrastructure, sustainable cities and
communities, among other topics related to the themes of the 17 United Nations SDGs. We expect
papers to discuss the roles of BRICS+ nations in shaping global agendas and providing policy
solutions and advice for global problems.
1.2 Global Climate Change Action: Climate change is a pressing global issue. This theme explores
how the BRICS+ and GCC partnership can contribute to fostering transnational coordination among
countries towards climate adaptation and mitigation policies, as well as promoting sustainable
development. The Conferences of the Parties (COPs) are a major global arena for addressing climate
change. Last year COP 27 was hosted by Egypt, in 2023 COP 28 is going to take place in Dubai
(UAE) and COP 30 in 2025 will be held in the city of Belém in the Brazilian Amazon region.
Different actions are being undertaken by these countries, which include not only taking part in the
formulation of the climate agenda, but also investing in soft power, through hosting global
conferences. Papers are expected to discuss the BRICS+ nations in climate change.
2. BRICS+ and GCC in politics and geopolitics
2.1. Reshaping Global Governance from Non-Western New Coalitions. This theme focuses on the
BRICS+ challenge to Western hegemony and the strategies they employ to assert influence. The
BRICS+ is an informal international organization of countries with different interests, sizes, and
international positions. We expect papers targeting the challenges and potentials for BRICS+ to
expand its influence in global governance.
2.2. The composition of the BRICS+ became more heterogeneous with the expansion, and with the
inclusion of more African and Middle Eastern countries. China plays a significant role in the
organization but has strategic divergences with India. Meanwhile, Iran and Russia received different
sanctions from the United Nations. How might these differences pose a barrier to internal governance
and politics within the BRICS+? What are the dynamics of cooperation and conflict within the
organization? We expect also to tackle different aspects of the political life of the BRICS+ after the expansion.
2.3. International conflicts are a major issue in international relations. For more than one year Russia
and Ukraine have been at war. In October 2023, a conflict involving Israel and Hamas was disrupted.
BRICS+ and GCC countries have assumed different positions towards these conflicts, not only in
multilateral arenas but also in bilateral negotiations. The Israel-Hamas conflict occurred during the
Brazilian presidency of the Security Council and this country's diplomacy made important efforts to
write a United Nations Resolution, meanwhile Qatar played a major role in negotiating hostage
liberations with Hamas. What are the roles of BRICS+ and GCC countries in international conflicts?
Which positions and actions are countries following? How can the BRICS+ foster diplomatic and
peace goals?
3. BRICS+ and GCC in economy and trade
3.1. Economic partnerships play a pivotal role in the BRICS+ and GCC relationship. This theme
delves into trade relations, investment initiatives, and development projects that are at the heart of
their collaboration. Papers discussing not only relations among BRICS+ and GCC countries, but also
with the private sector are welcomed in the workshop.
3.2. Economy and trade are an important driver of BRICS+ relations. These countries together
represent more than 30% of the World's GDP. Brazil plays a key role in the export of commodities,
meanwhile, GCC countries have economies based on oil and gas exports. China is important in
boosting trade among members and The One Belt One Road Initiative is also a key element for
understanding perspectives for trade with Gulf countries. How will commercial relations change after
the expansion? What is the trade impact for Gulf countries? We expect papers addressing these issues
of economy and trade.
4. BRICS+ and GCC in international cooperation
4.1. Collaborative Approaches to Global Challenges: The BRICS+ and GCC partnership is expected
to address various global challenges. This theme explores their collaborative approaches to issues
like public health, humanitarian aid, counterterrorism, and security. Papers discussing not only
relations among BRICS+ countries, but also with the civil society organizations are welcomed in the
workshop.
4.2. BRICS+ and Development: different types of development cooperation actions are implemented
by BRICS+ countries, such as foreign aid or technical assistance. In the past years, Brazil, Russia,
and China, have been engaging with developing countries, especially in Africa with different
approaches. Brazil has been a supplier of social policy knowledge via development cooperation to
different countries in Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa, for example. The Bank of the BRICs
is also becoming an important player in funding public infrastructure for development. What is the
future of development and aid with the membership of GCC countries? How might policy and
knowledge transfers be operationalized between BRIC+ and GCC countries?
Papers should focus on one of the topics indicated in this section, keeping in mind the indications in
sections 4, 6, and 7.
Paper structure, referencing, and format
Prospective authors should structure their papers coherently, addressing chosen topics from the
provided list. Each paper should include an introduction, clear objectives, methodology, findings, and
a conclusion. Papers should aim to be research-driven and substantiated with empirical insights,
contributing to the edited volume's comprehensive understanding of the BRICS-Gulf partnership.
Authors should also adhere to the GRM Paper Guidelines.
Participants who do not submit a completed paper by the 31 May 2024 deadline or whose submitted
paper does not meet the requirements will be disinvited by GRCC.
Publication plans
The directors endeavour to publish an edited book that serves as a comprehensive resource on the
topic of the Gulf Arab States and the BRICS. The editors have a proven track record of successfully
producing edited volumes and will target publishers such as Cambridge or Oxford University Press
and we already have a manifestation of interest from three publishers, including Palgrave, Springer,
and Edward Elgar. We are also exploring additional publishing options to ensure wide dissemination
of the workshop's findings.
Provisory structure of the book
Part I: BRICS and Gulf Relations in Global Governance
- Introduction: Unveiling the Significance of the BRICS-Gulf Partnership
- The BRICS: A Non-Western Approach to Global Governance
- Gulf Countries as Emerging Global Players
Part II: The Role of BRICS-Gulf Economic Partnerships in Global Trade
Part III: Diplomacy, Conflict Resolution, and Regional Stability
- Diplomatic Cooperation: A Key Driver for Peace and Stability
- Assessing BRICS-Gulf Mediation in Regional Conflicts
- Enhancing Regional Security and Promoting Stability
Part IV: Global Agendas and Collaborative Approaches
- BRICS-Gulf Response to the Ukraine Conflict
- Mitigating Climate Change: Joint Commitments and Strategies
- International Cooperation in Counterterrorism and Security
Part V: Soft Power, Global South, and Policy Exchange
- Soft Power Initiatives of BRICS and Gulf States
- The Collective Role of BRICS and Gulf in the Global South
- Policy Exchange and Impact on Domestic Policymaking
Part VI: Comparative Studies and Empirical Insights
- Comparative Analysis of Individual BRICS and Gulf Countries
- Case Studies on Key Phenomena: Insights into Dynamic Collaboration
- Bilateral and Multilateral Aspects of International Cooperation
Part VII: Conclusion and Future Trajectories
- Synthesizing Key Findings and Implications
- Future Trajectories for BRICS-Gulf Partnership in Global Affairs
Papers that may not be publishable in the edited volume will still be reviewed by the directors and
considered for individual publication in either a peer-reviewed journal or as a GRM paper. Directors
will make reasonable efforts to ensure that all accepted papers are published in one of these three
forms.
References
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Directors’ bio notes
Dr. Esmat Zaidan is an Associate Professor at Hamad Bin Khalifa University's College of Public
Policy. She holds a Ph.D. degree and a master's degree from the University of Waterloo, Canada. Her
professional experience includes her appointments with the World Bank, the Norwegian Agency for
Development Cooperation (NORAD), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
These engagements have enriched her understanding of global development challenges and policy
implementation. Dr. Zaidan's research is characterized by its interdisciplinary nature, encompassing
the fields of engineering, sustainability, and policy such as sustainable development policy and
planning, the dynamics of sustainable cities and societies, the sociological dimensions of sustainable
technologies, energy policies, energy transition, and climate change. Dr. Zaidan has contributed over
60 articles to top-tier ISI/Scopus journals, mainly in Q1.
Osmany Porto de Oliveira is a Tenured Assistant Professor in the International Relations
Department at the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP) and coordinator of the International
Public Policies Laboratory (LABOPPI). He holds a Ph.D. in Political Science, from the University of
Sorbonne Nouvelle – Paris III (2015) and a Ph.D. from the University of São Paulo (2013). His
research centers on policy transfer, development cooperation, international organizations, democracy,
and climate change. He received the Early Career Award of the International Public Policy
Association – IPPA (2019). His main books are Brazil and China in Knowledge and Policy Transfer
(Palgrave, 2022), with G. Romano; Handbook of Policy Transfer, Diffusion and Circulation (Edward
Elgar, 2021); Latin America and Policy Diffusion (Routledge, 2020), with C. Osorio, S. Montero,
and C. Leite; International Policy Diffusion and Participatory Budgeting (Palgrave, 2017). He is also
an Associate Editor of Policy Sciences and a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of Policy and
Politics.