BRICS condemns unilateral coercive measures in violation of international law

In a firm rejection of actions that undermine international norms, BRICS nations on Sunday issued a joint declaration condemning all unilateral coercive measures that violate international law and opposing any sanctions not authorized by the United Nations Security Council.

The declaration titled "Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance" was adopted at the 17th BRICS Summit, where leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the BRICS spirit and pledged to deepen cooperation under the expanded BRICS framework. This cooperation will focus on three core pillars: political and security collaboration, economic and financial engagement, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

The declaration raised concerns over the growing number of global trade restrictions, warning that indiscriminate rising of tariffs, non-tariff measures or other protectionist measures, especially those framed as environmental objectives, all risk undermining global trade, disrupting supply chains and destabilizing the outlook for international economic growth.

Highlighting the evolving nature of the group, BRICS leaders recognized the need to adapt existing mechanisms to better reflect its expanded membership. They called for more efficient, responsive, inclusive and consensus-based operations to ensure the group's continued relevance and effectiveness.

The BRICS countries also underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships with emerging markets and developing countries, stressing that deeper Global South cooperation will enhance solidarity and promote genuine multilateralism that benefits all humanity.

In addition, the declaration outlined BRICS countries' unified positions on a wide range of global challenges, including artificial intelligence governance, climate action, technological innovation, global health cooperation, energy transition, cultural exchanges and the peaceful use of outer space.

According to the document, India will assume the BRICS chairmanship in 2026 and host the 18th BRICS Summit.