Workshop 1 / GRM 2024
Towards a Global Coalition: Gulf countries, BRICS+, and the Future of the Global Order

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.


Workshop

Directors


Esmat

Zaidan

Associate Professor of Public Policy
Hamad Bin Khalifa University



Osmany

Porto de Oliveira

Tenured Assistant Professor of International Relations
Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP),


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