The Journal of BRICS Studies is envisioned as an open-access, peer-reviewed non-disciplinary academic journal focused on the critical and intersectoral study of subjects related to the BRICS, the agency of emerging powers and South-South cooperation. BRICS studies require discussion and analysis that go beyond and disrupt the disciplinary lines of knowledge to make possible knowledge-otherwise. The Journal publishes research articles, review articles and emerging voices' essays. Online ISSN 2519-7460 Print ISSN 2519-7452
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Leveraging BRICS: South Africa's Pursuit of Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy Frameworks in a Multipolar World
In the realm of soft power, South Africa, a mixed economy and post-apartheid democratic country, has emerged as a significant influencer in post-colonial Africa, particularly in the post-apartheid era. This elevated status presents a dual opportunity. On one hand, South Africa can use its position as a gateway to the African continent, capitalising on its reputation as a one-stop shop for investment and diplomacy. On the other hand, this very same status often leads to South Africa being perceived as a conduit to Africa’s vast, untapped resources, a perception that warrants careful consideration in the context of sustainable development and equitable partnerships. As the dynamics of global politics continue to evolve, it is crucial to acknowledge the complexities inherent in South Africa’s position and the implications thereof for the African continent and BRICS. The notion surrounding BRICS remains a contentious issue, sparking intense debate. It is noteworthy that numerous countries from the Global North and Global South leverage South Africa’s infrastructure to tap into the vast potential of African states. South Africa’s unique position, boasting a comprehensive array of embassies, cements its status as a continental hub - a distinction that Ethiopia, the only African nation never to have been colonised, cannot claim despite its rich history. Accordingly, this study examines South Africa’s strategic use of soft power and cultural diplomacy within the BRICS alliance, analysing its unique role as the bloc’s sole African representative. Grounded in Joseph Nye’s theory of soft power, the research employs a qualitative methodology using secondary data, document analysis, and case studies to assess how South Africa leverages its post-apartheid identity, cultural assets, and diplomatic networks to enhance its global influence. The findings reveal a significant soft power paradox: while South Africa possesses substantial assets, including its democratic transition, Ubuntu philosophy, and gateway position in Africa, its influence is critically undermined by domestic challenges such as xenophobia and economic inequality, which create a credibility gap. The study concludes that for South Africa to convert its symbolic representation into substantive leadership within BRICS, it must institutionalise its cultural diplomacy, proactively forge a cohesive African caucus within the enlarged bloc, and decisively address its internal contradictions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Thelela Ngcetane-Vika, Fumene George Tsibani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
In Search of Constitutional ‘Philosopher-Kings’ in ‘Post-Apartheid South’? A Review of Super President: The History and Future of Executive Power in South Africa
In The Guardian of the Constitution: Hans Kelsen and Carl Schmitt on the Limits of Constitutional Law (2015), the legal philosophers and political theorists Hans Kelsen and Carl Schmitt engaged in the now heralded ‘debate’ regarding the role of the president and constitutional review. The limits of executive power and constitutionalism were the fundamental point of departure. With the reinforcement of American fascism under the presidency of Donald Trump as evidenced by his avalanche of executive orders, ‘the Kelsen and Schmitt debate’ has become even more germane. In our current context in South Africa the so-called debate on expropriation with or without compensation under the presidency of Cyril Ramaphosa and the constitution of 1996 serves as a relevant example of the significance of ‘how presidential power should be used in South Africa’ (Ndzendze 2024:i). What is the nature of presidential power in the context of South Africa as a white settler colony since the conquest of Indigenous people in 1652? How can a black president undo the structure of white settler colonialism within the legal epistemological paradigm of the European conqueror (Ramose 2006) as embodied in the constitution of 1996? Should the fundamental quest be to decolonise the political and legal paradigm that stems from epistemicide (Ramose 2007) due to conquest since 1652, rather advocating for effectiveness in it? These are some of the more structural questions which the framing of presidential power within the contours of the ‘politics of efficiency’ and the parameters of a liberal white settler constitutional framework makes difficult to entertain and respond to with persuasion. The perennial relationship between structure and agency becomes significant in this regard. Without being grounded in a structural history of South Africa as a white settler colony (Wolfe 2006) one runs the risk of indulging in personality idealism and the fetishization of agency. This is not to deny the power of certain individuals and roles that they endowed with within a given structure. In is within this context that the following question premised on the book Super President: The History and Future of Executive Power in South Africa (2024) by Bhaso Ndzendze makes sense: how can presidential power be used in South Africa to effect change and institute transparent and effective leadership?
Copyright (c) 2026 Masilo Lepuru https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Proposing an Analytical Framework for Impact Analysed Integrated Urban Planning in Support of Sustainable Development and Social Progress [In South Africa]
The Integrated Development Planning (IDP) process is intended to be more than a legislative requirement; it is designed as a tool to measure the outcome and impact of development initiatives. However, development and social indicators are currently lacking in measuring the sustainable and long-run implications for growth, development, and social progress. The paper proposes a methodological approach comprising (1) the identification and development of relevant development and social progress metrics and (2) the development of an analytical framework capturing the integrated complexities of the urban planning environment. In follow-up research, the framework and set of indicators will be expanded into a quantifiable and analytical tool, allowing for customised and empirical impact assessments on the urban level. This paper develops a structured and methodological approach to support evidenced-based integrated development planning and implementation by local government in South Africa.
Copyright (c) 2026 Zaakirah Jeeva, Charlotte B Buitendag (Du Toit) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
International Sanctions and Economic Restructuring: Modelling the BRICS Monetary Initiative as Counter-Power
This paper explores the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) monetary initiative in the context of international sanctions and economic restructuring. Since 2014, Russia, faced with severe sanctions after the annexation of Crimea, has reoriented its trade relations towards non-Western partners, particularly within the BRICS. This situation has catalysed thinking about the creation of a common currency to reduce dependence on the US dollar and the euro, currencies often used to exert economic pressure. The BRICS currency project aims to strengthen the economic autonomy of member countries and develop an alternative to Western-dominated monetary systems. The study models the impact of sanctions on Russia’s trade flows using the ARIMAX model, incorporating exogenous variables such as economic sanctions. By simulating different scenarios (lifting, maintaining, or intensifying sanctions), the projections highlight the adaptability of Russian trade flows in the face of geopolitical and economic changes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hugo Spring-Ragain https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Power Asymmetries in BRICS: Serving the Global South or Entrenching Sino‑Russian Interests?
Since becoming a political bloc in 2009, BRICS has expanded to ten members. This paper interrogates the evolving role of this formation, which aspires to be a powerful voice for the Global South at the international level. This ambition evokes comparisons to the Non-Aligned Movement, which ‘historically represented a collective voice of developing countries striving for independence, sovereignty, and international cooperation’ during the pre-1990 bipolar world. However, the contemporary multipolar landscape presents distinct challenges to its efforts to be a counterweight to Western hegemony. This paper argues that the grouping increasingly entrenches Chinese economic primacy and Russian geopolitical interests, marginalising smaller members and the broader Global South. Empirical evidence from key UN bodies is used to highlight limited BRICS engagement at the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and divergent voting patterns within the UN Security Council (UNSC), underscoring institutional inertia. Financial and diplomatic asymmetries further enable Beijing and Moscow to dominate the bloc’s agenda, weakening its credibility as a vehicle for Global South solidarity. These internal imbalances could also undermine the very concept of multipolarity that BRICS claims to champion. Through a structural realist lens, this paper analyses UN voting records, trade imbalances and case studies, including the Democratic Republic of Congo’s cobalt supply chain, to reveal how disparities in representation, financial contributions and strategic priorities shape BRICS’ trajectory. The paper concludes with policy recommendations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Siyabonga P. Hadebe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Fostering Financial Independence Among Women in India – A Case Study of LXME
This article explores the relationship between financial literacy and financial independence. Through the case study method, it studies the impact and role of a fintech startup firm LXME in educating women about financial planning and helping them empower themselves in their personal and professional lives. LXME manages a Facebook group named ‘Being LXME’ which is a group of women that promotes women’s economic empowerment through financial literacy. The group works to simplify the financial terms and financial planning and investment so that women can understand the terminology easily and plan their finances better. LXME (beta version) was launched in 2018-19 by the Anand Rathi group. While there is no dearth of fintech apps in recent times, LXME has a unique proposition. Armed with the Facebook community, LXME guides women to make the right choices when it comes to decision-making for investment and personal finances. This article aims to shed light on how LXME has charted its path toward being a successful venture and how it plans to connect with their consumers to empower them to take charge of their finances by educating them.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abha Kaneria https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
BRICS and Beyond:Türkiye's Strategic Drift from the West and Its Impact on Global Geopolitics
This paper examines Türkiye’s strategic pivot toward BRICS membership and its implications for global geopolitics, analyzing the factors driving Türkiye’s eastward drift and its impact on existing alliances and global governance structures. The research employs a qualitative multi-method approach, combining comparative historical analysis, document analysis, and a systematic literature review, utilizing a theoretical framework integrating neoclassical realism, complex interdependence, and constructivism to provide comprehensive analysis. Neoclassical realism proves particularly relevant in explaining how President Erdoğan’s domestic consolidation of power—evidenced by constitutional changes expanding presidential authority and centralization of foreign policy decision-making—has enabled Türkiye’s pursuit of strategic autonomy, validating Rose’s (1998) emphasis on how domestic political structures mediate systemic pressures. Complex interdependence is validated through Türkiye’s multifaceted economic relationships, where it simultaneously maintains a customs union with the EU while increasing trade with BRICS nations (BRICS imports rising from 15% to 23.5% between 2010-2022), demonstrating Keohane and Nye’s (1977) core premise that states manage multiple channels of interaction across different issue areas without hierarchical prioritization. Constructivism’s relevance is confirmed by observable identity shifts in Turkish foreign policy discourse, particularly the AKP government’s explicit invocation of Ottoman heritage in foreign policy speeches, the reframing of Türkiye as a “central country” rather than a “bridge,” and polling data showing increased public affinity with non-Western powers (from 28% to 41% between 2015-2023), illustrating how ideational factors reshape state interests as theorized by Wendt (1999). The study reveals that Türkiye’s BRICS bid represents a sophisticated attempt to maximize strategic autonomy in an increasingly multipolar world order, illuminating tensions between Türkiye’s NATO commitments and potential BRICS membership while identifying economic opportunities and challenges. The analysis demonstrates how middle powers like Türkiye can influence global power transitions and reshape alliance structures, advancing understanding of middle power behavior during global power transitions and challenging assumptions about Cold War-era alliances’ durability. This research provides novel insights into the interplay between identity, strategic autonomy, and foreign policy formation in the context of emerging alternative governance structures, contributing to broader theoretical debates about alliance reconfiguration, BRICS expansion, global governance, middle power strategy, multipolarity, and strategic autonomy in Turkish foreign policy.
Copyright (c) 2026 Habib Badawi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Influence of China’s Political System on Cybersecurity Governance and Strategy
This article delves into the intricate relationship between China’s autocratic system and its cybersecurity landscape, examining the extent to which the former influences the development of frameworks, strategies, and responses to cyber threats. Drawing upon a comprehensive analysis of China’s political structure, cybersecurity policies, and historical context, this study investigates how authoritarian governance shapes the nation’s approach to cybersecurity. Methodologically, the article adopts a qualitative approach, drawing on a systematic review of scholarly literature, official publications, and case studies of major cyber incidents to identify recurring patterns and insights. By exploring key factors such as government control, censorship mechanisms, and prioritisation of state interests, it sheds light on the unique challenges and opportunities presented by China’s autocratic system in safeguarding its digital infrastructure. Additionally, this research assesses the implications of these dynamics on international cybersecurity norms and global cyber governance. Through a nuanced exploration of these interconnections, this article offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between political systems and cybersecurity strategies in an increasingly digitised world.
Copyright (c) 2026 Venencia Paidamoyo Nyambuya, Nirmala Devi Gopal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
South Africa as an Investment Destination amid the Energy Crisis
This paper examines the impact of load-shedding (energy crisis) and the performance of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in South Africa, focusing on the experiences of the Coega Industrial Zone (IDZ). Despite their potential to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and foster economic growth in the country, SEZs have been plagued by unreliable electricity supply since 2008. This study analyses the consequences of load-shedding on SEZs, drawing on existing literature, Coega IDZ documents, reports, and newspaper articles from reputable sources. The findings reveal that load-shedding significantly hinders investor confidence, forcing businesses to contend with production losses, increased operational costs, and supply chain disruption. The study highlights how these challenges have resulted in a suspension of major investment projects, resulting in a loss of job creation and economic development. This research contributes to the under-researched literature on SEZs and FDI in Africa, emphasising how electricity supply, a key component of infrastructure and a critical pillar of competitiveness, can directly affect FDI and the country’s global economic standing. The study underscores the urgent need for a sustainable solution to South Africa’s energy crisis to unlock the full potential of its SEZs and foster inclusive economic growth.
Copyright (c) 2026 Brilliant Ngobeni, Selemo Nkwe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
BRICS+ South-South development cooperation via the New Development Bank (NDB)
This paper analyses the role of the New Development Bank (NDB) in BRICS+ development cooperation, with a focus on sustainable infrastructure investment. As one of BRICS’ first financial institutions, the NDB seeks to reform global financial governance while balancing national priorities. Through an empirical review of financial statements, strategic documents and project data, the study evaluates the bank’s claims of originality. The findings highlight its role in South-South cooperation and ecological transitions, addressing the core question: What is truly “new” in the New Development Bank?
Copyright (c) 2026 João Pedro Braga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
BRICS Strengthening Global South Cooperation for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance
This edition emerges in the context of major development in the evolution of BRICS in 2025. It is dedicated to ideas about consolidation of BRICS agency in various ways. The BRICS Summit in July 2025 held in Brazil focused on ways that the BRICS forum could be a catalyst for strengthening coordination among countries of the global south in the search for a more inclusive and sustainable governance. The focus was on seven forms of governance: political, security, economic, financial, cultural and people-to-people cooperation. These are crucial for the global south to emerge fully from the margins of a western-dominated world in order to contribute fully to the making of a better work for all and better lives for the people.
Copyright (c) 2026 Siphamandla Zondi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Impact of Social Media Marketing on the Indian Skincare Industry with Special Reference to the Ahmedabad (Gujarat) Region
Social media has become a key transformative marketing tool in the Indian skincare industry, directly influencing consumer behavior and shaping beauty routines. With the sector rapidly growing along with an increasing demand for sustainable skincare, skincare brands are adapting to the preferences of younger and tech-savvy audiences. This study further explores the impact of social media platforms on the skincare product purchasing decisions in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, while also focusing on different demographic groups. The research methodology is based on an empirical quantitative approach. The data gathered is done through electronic surveys to examine how platforms like YouTube and Instagram influence consumer interactions and purchasing behaviors. This study aims to explore the influence of various social media platforms on consumer behavior towards skincare brands and products in the Ahmedabad region of Gujarat, India. The study further seeks to understand how different demographic segments engage with skincare brands on online platforms. This study addresses the void in understanding how social media affects skincare purchases across demographic segments in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The study concludes that diverse social media platforms, especially through influencers and user-generated content, significantly impact consumer behavior. Younger consumers are more influenced by YouTube. It is seen that brands that engage through the means of personalized content hold stronger loyalty in the market.
Copyright (c) 2025 Radhika Chaumal, Sandesh Mahajan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Relevance Of BRICS in the Period of Turbulence
The emergence of BRICS is seen as an important shift towards multipolarity, putting significant pressure on the existing hegemony in multilateral institutions such as IMF, World Bank, and the dollar-dominated monitory system. The inaugural BRIC Summit in 2009 at the Russian Federation came up with focused issues of reform in the global financial structure. Starting with the financial issues of mutual interest, BRICS's objectives have widened over time. It encompasses major global issues such as terrorism, Climate Change, food and energy security, international economic and financial situation, reform of the Bretton Woods institutions, trade protectionism, and hegemonic control of multilateral institutions that were held responsible for the great divide between North and South owing to a critical flaw of the unequal representation of developing countries in the global economy. The opening of the 21st century witnessed a financial crisis, bilateral trade wars, sanctions, unilateral actions, and global inequalities in access to finance, technology, resource mobilization, and trading capacities gave impetus to the rise of BRICS. BRICS have shown their concern about the serious setback to the Global Economy caused by the COVID-19 scenario and the hardships suffered by humanity, which had an impact on the economy. The current research paper is based on secondary source of data collection. This is a subjective investigation that intends to discuss the significance of BRICS in contemporary global society as an initiative of collaboration in the areas of economy and trade, innovation, and strategic cooperation. Its objectives are to broaden, deepen, and intensify cooperation for more sustainable, equitable, and mutually beneficial development. It is an attempt to understand the affirmative role of BRICS Nations, it’s future perspectives, and the role of India in BRICS.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sankata Prasad Shukla, Vikash Shukla https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comparing Factor Models in the Indian Stock Market
Which factor model better explains portfolio return variation in India? This study compares the Fama French Three Factor Model, Carhart Four Factor Model & Fama French Five Factor Model in the Indian Stock Market. S&P BSE 100 index companies are studied over 16 years, i.e., April 2005 to June 2021. Four fundamentals & a momentum variable (Market Capitalization, P/B ratio, past performance, Profitability & Investment) based factor mimicking portfolios had been formed using the Fama French (1993, 2015) & Carhart (1997) Methodology. Portfolios for dependent variables were formulated using a double-sorting process keeping the Size factor conditional. The degree of multicollinearity is required to be checked & hence VIF test is conducted before regression analysis. It was found that the Carhart Four-factor model performs better compared to the other two models. Findings of the study can be useful to fund managers, managers, investors & traders in selecting stocks for portfolio management, trading & risk management.
Copyright (c) 2025 Zankhana Atodaria https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A critical Analysis of the role of the Accredited Social Health Activists in Managing Health-Care Services During Pre-COVID and Post-COVOD Period in India
The paper investigates and critically analyses the contribution of Indian healthcare workers ‘ASHA’ that is (Accredited Social Health Activists) ASHA program was introduced by the Indian government and is a vital component of community process intervention. ASHA program is one of the largest community health worker programs; it is considered an important contributor to enabling people’s participation in healthcare. This paper examines the crucial role ASHA workers play in India's community healthcare system and broader society. It also addresses the current working conditions, job security concerns, and wages associated with ASHA workers. We focus on the experiences – struggles, and hardships of ASHAs who have been at the forefront of fighting the COVID-19 pandemic in India for the last two years. We try to provide a historical review of the specific category of women health workers called ASHA. Through a brief analysis of the working conditions of the ASHA workers in contemporary India, we reveal the increasing inequalities and exploitation in the context of privatization and corporatization of healthcare work at multiple levels, contributing to gradually eroding the rights of women’s healthcare workers. The paper aims to examine the changing responsibilities of ASHA workers, assess their contributions before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, and delve into the experiences of ASHA workers during the COVID-19 crisis.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shreeprasad Ashok Kulkarni, Santosh Gawai https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Entrepreneurship and Future Perspectives in BRICS- Operational Improvements and Sustainable Air Transport Development in the Global South
There is a clear inequality between air transport systems development in Global North countries from the Global South ones. It is possible to observe this inequality when analyzing each region's route network and the total number of flights. This article aims to analyze how the adherence to The Carbon Offset Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) which comprises a market-based measure to stabilize emissions from 2020 onwards by international civil aviation can restrict growth and impact air transport expansion in developing countries, focusing on the BRICS countries. Considering a bibliographical review, the article highlights how ICAO developed measures to reduce CO2 emissions, including operational, technical, and alternative fuel measures, consisting of CORSIA in a complementary market measure. Additionally, based on the methodology developed by ICAO, the estimated reduction in CO2 emissions from implementing operational measures in Brazil was calculated using the annual number of arrivals and departures at airports. Operational measures are more in line with developing countries' United Nations' sustainable development goals, which have a broader sustainable development view of society. They are the best short-term option since Technological measures have a high implementation cost, and their incorporation into aircraft fleets takes a long time using SAF strongly depends on reducing associated production costs and developing a supply chain that allows its production to scale. As BRICS countries implement operational measures in their air transport systems, there is an increasing gain in efficiency and a reduction in CO2 emissions. Market measures such as CORSIA can restrict the expansion of air transport infrastructure in developing countries, consequently impacting their economic growth.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bruno Garcia Franciscone , Elton Fernandes https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comparative Analysis of the Government Structure and Policies to Disaster Response Adopted by the BRICS: Perspectives from the COVID-19 Pandemic
Disasters have increased in severity, diversity, and frequency over the years. Consequently, disaster response requires the involvement of different stakeholders, which makes managing disaster and humanitarian operations a challenge. Thus, the present research aims to compare the government structure and policies of the BRICS countries (i.e., Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) to disaster response operations, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research adopts the case study by investigating official government documents and public information. The results identified that the BRICS developed: (i) a vertical and centralized coordination approach within their territories in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, (ii) some cases of independence and misalignment between national and local governments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and (iii) creation and adjustment of particular policies and programs for the pandemic period with little consideration of government structures and policies for disaster response developed before the COVID-19 pandemic. Future research might compare the response to other disasters faced by all the BRICS countries and collaboration opportunities among them.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ana Paula Pereira Maiato Nascimento, Híngred Ferraz Pereira Resende, Tharcisio Cotta Fontainha https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
BRICS and Covid-19- The Impact of COVID-19 on Educational Entrepreneurs in India with Special Reference to Central State: M.P.
After the historic disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, no sector remained unaffected across the world, and similar to other critical sectors, the education sector too has been hit hard. Universities, colleges, schools, teachers, and the most vulnerable were the students who were deeply impacted. This calls for Governments, society, and specifically educational entrepreneurs, to re-think and put serious efforts into developing long-term strategies to meet the needs of education and ensure continued learning in unpredictable futures. In light of rising concerns, educational entrepreneurs have to redefine their way of working and have to include -online learning or e-learning as an integral part of their teaching process that too consistent basis. This exploratory research paper proposes that educational entrepreneurs must adopt the latest technology and technological gadgets to sustain themselves in the market and grow. The inclusion of online learning or e-learning facilities along with the offline mode of teaching is a necessity in today’s dynamic environment. However, in its adoption, numerous factors play a vital role and must be considered to motivate educational entrepreneurs. This research study has identified factors to be considered that not only have an impact on the adoption of technology but also support its consistent use. Findings also reveal that apart from the identified factors, student’s and teachers’ digital readiness and motivation also play important roles in technological integration in the teaching process.
Copyright (c) 2025 Neerja Nigam, Manish Nigam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Challenges in Teaching and Learning during COVID-19 Pandemic on Sustainable Development Goals in South Africa (A Systematic Review)
During the COVID-19 pandemic, South Africa implemented lockdown and social distancing measures, resulting in the closure of all schools and higher education institutions in the country. Despite the challenges posed to both educators and learners, education systems have been forced to transition from traditional face-to-face pedagogical classroom methods into remote virtual platforms, which allow sustainability in the continuity of teaching and learning in traditional methods. This study adopts a systematic review approach to examine challenges in teaching and learning during and after the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. Evidently, the findings from the study depict that, in the wake of the pandemic, the transition in education in South Africa was hampered by educational inequality and insufficient digital literacy among instructors in many South African educational institutions. However, post-COVID-19 evidence reveals that much progress has been made as there is an increased focus on adoption training and the use of digital tools and technology. The conclusion of this study is that traditional education should be blended with online teaching and learning to achieve sustainable development goal number four.
Copyright (c) 2025 Aderinsola Kayode, Abraham Adeniran , Fulufhelo Netswera https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Environmental Sustainability: The Case of a Multi-Business Packaging Organisation in South Africa
South Africa contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and is vulnerable to climate change's effects on health, livelihoods, water, and food. The South African Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) supports an equitable transition to a low-carbon economy and a climate‐resilient society protected for the benefit of present and future generations. The increased awareness and requirement to protect the environment has resulted in a growing demand from environmentally conscious customers for suppliers to practice the triple bottom line that requires a balanced approach to managing people, planet, and profit. Organisations therefore must have clear environmental objectives that must be aligned with the strategic goals of the organisation, to ensure better, utilisation of the organisation’s resources, management of cost, and management of the organisation’s environmental culture. Organisations implement Environmental Management Systems (EMS) to evaluate, eliminate and mitigate their impact on the environment to improve their environmental performance. This study was conducted across three business units of a South African packaging organisation that aimed to ascertain the environmental sustainability status of the organisation. A mixed quantitative and qualitative research methodology was used to gain an understanding of the current environmental sustainability initiatives of the organisation and the challenges that the organisation faced towards achieving its’ contribution towards environmental sustainability. The results of the research indicated that the organisation has environment management systems that support environment sustainability, however, there is room to further improve their environmental performance.
Copyright (c) 2025 Manduth Ramchander, Manikam Michael Nadar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Prospective Solar Energy Technologies for Sustainable and Inclusive Development in BRICS Countries
The climate change scenario observed in the last few years calls for immediate attention and planned action. One of the major factors responsible for climate change is fossil fuel-based energy consumption patterns which leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions. Energy availability is important for economic development and improved quality of life, therefore transition to clean renewable energy options is required without compromising on energy availability. According to sustainable development goal number seven, for sustainable and inclusive development it is important to focus on clean and affordable energy for all with consideration for the environment. Here the role of solar energy technologies becomes extremely important, as their carbon footprint is low and can be used for a wide variety of applications. This paper discusses the potential of solar resources for the BRICS countries and the prospective solar thermal and solar PV technologies for each country according to the region-wise resource. BRICS countries represent around 40% of the world's population. The methodology for identifying the prospective solar technologies for the BRICS countries is based on an analysis of the solar resource potential for each country. It is found that all the BRICS countries have good solar potential and can utilize several solar energy technologies to enhance green technology practices. Further, the challenges in the implementation and promotion of solar projects are discussed with suggestions for collaborative research and development in this area. Policy requirements to overcome the limitations of the technologies and their penetration are also pointed out.
Copyright (c) 2025 Namrata Sengar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) bloc, representing a coalition of major developing nations, has recently expanded by admitting six new members—Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—effective from January 1, 2024. This expansion transforms the bloc into BRICS Plus (+), reflecting the rising multipolarity in global politics and economics. This paper examines the implications of BRICS Plus for Pakistan, assessing potential economic, geopolitical, and security benefits while addressing challenges such as Indian opposition and Western pressure. The study concludes with policy recommendations for Pakistan to leverage this opportunity by enhancing trade, investment, and diplomatic relations within BRICS.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Ijaz Khan, Shokat Hayat https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Influence of South Africa’s Democratic Principles on its Cybersecurity Framework and Cyber Threat Response
This study explores the intricate relationship between South Africa's democratic political system, its commitment to human and private rights, and the development of its cybersecurity framework, strategy, and response to cyber threats. Given the country's robust constitutional commitment to human rights, this research explores how these democratic principles are integrated into and influence cybersecurity policies and practices. Through a comprehensive analysis of legislative documents, policy frameworks, this study identifies the extent to which democratic values and human rights considerations shape South Africa's approach to cybersecurity. The findings reveal that South Africa's cybersecurity strategy is deeply influenced by its democratic ethos, with a strong emphasis on protecting individual rights while ensuring national security. The study highlights how laws such as the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and the Cybercrimes Act balance the need for security with the protection of privacy and freedom of expression. Furthermore, it explores the multi-stakeholder approach adopted by South Africa, emphasizing public participation, transparency, and accountability in developing and implementing cybersecurity measures. This research also explores the challenges and tensions that arise from striving to protect human rights within the cybersecurity domain, such as ensuring privacy and freedom of information in the face of increasing cyber threats. The study provides insights into how South Africa navigates these challenges, including the mechanisms put in place to ensure oversight and accountability in the surveillance and data collection practices by state security agencies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Venencia Paidamoyo Nyambuya, Nirmala Devi Gopal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Are Sino-Africa Relations Mutually Beneficial for Africa?
Throughout the years, China has managed to acquire enormous political and economic growth. Through these efforts China gained global recognition from then world superpowers (Britain, France, and United States of America), and was introduced to the United Nations Security Council as a permanent member in 1971. In order to maintain this position in the international arena, China focused on strengthening her rapidly developing economy by entering the African diaspora where she would acquire much needed raw minerals and varying sources of energy to sustain and further bolster her developing but competitive economy. These relations resulted in strengthened political and economic relations between China and African countries. The purpose of this paper is to determine whether Sino-Africa relations are mutually beneficial, and not lopsided in favor of Chinese interests. To determine this, the paper will be assigned with four task; (1) analyzing diplomatic and economic interactions between China and African nations (vice versa); (2) addressing the common perceptions and misconceptions associated with China’s activities in Africa; (3) to determine whether indeed Sino-Africa relationships are based on mutual gains or if they are lopsided and in favor of China’s interests; (4) to determine whether or not these relations and interactions have a promising future.
Copyright (c) 2025 Boitumelo Majola https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
This study aims to review South Africa’s multilateral response to the Russia-Ukraine war concerning the discourse of international law and South Africa’s national interests. The response was met with significant backlash. However, it elucidates several imperatives, notably, the power politics of international law, South Africa’s advocacy of multilateralism, and its obligation to the BRICS bloc. This research adopts a qualitative research approach and uses the theory of Realism. Recent 2023 developments in South Africa concerning International law and the Russia-Ukraine war have sparked huge debates across international relations and academia. Topics of war crime, alliance, BRICS summit, and international law have continued dominating the mist surrounding these events and their impact. Arguably, in international relations, post-economic crisis tends to compel states to adopt a realist attitude towards their foreign policy to see through their national interests. However, due to the geopolitical and global economic crisis, protectionism in the international space has become contemporaneous, where every country enforces Realism in their foreign policy using their sovereign capacity and influence in the international space. However, such creates a beggar-thy-neighbour effect on their counterparts. South Africa finds itself being affected by these foreign protectionist policies. When the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant of arrest to South Africa against the President of Russia, this was followed by debates on notions of law and litigation; however, at the center of these debates is the South African dilemma between international law and economic cooperation with the BRICS bloc. The arguments following the dilemma have alluded to South Africa hosting a successful BRICS summit, and the execution of the warrant as South Africa remains a signatory of the Rome statute. In assessing the justification of this warrant was the relevance of international law to South Africa.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ndzalama Mathebula, Busisiwe T. Sibizo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The museum has played a vital role in educating the public about their past through the use of its exhibits. Museums through their programs provide archaeological public education. Museums’ role in protecting cultural heritage cannot be underrated. In this study, data was collected using observation and structured interviews from the public who visited the museum on various occasions. Also, key informant interviews were another key method of obtaining data that was used on museum staff. The research findings indicate that archaeological exhibits are essential in communicating information about the discipline of archaeology. Secondly, museum programs convey information about archaeology to the public. Lastly, museums act as a purveyor of cultural heritage information and as a custodian and protector of heritage. In conclusion, museums have a role in ensuring that exhibitions are well displayed to communicate information about archaeology. The stakeholders in archaeology have a role in partnering with museums in developing programs that are of value to the public. Public education programs should be developed to suit the different segments of the public from the school going children to senior citizens in the country. Museums should be well nurtured by the public and the government in order to protect our cultural heritage.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tabitha Ndogoto, Simiyu Wandibba, Ephraim Wahome https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Brazil Assumed the Presidency of BRICS in 2025
Brazil assumed the presidency on the back of a successful presidency of the G20, both dovetailing around the pursuit of political and economic cooperation of the Global South, encouraging the development of a sustainable and inclusive global governance, promoting intra-BRICS economic cooperation, advancing technology for development, and exploring financing tools against climate change.
Copyright (c) 2025 Siphamandla Zondi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Brazilian Presidency of BRICS in 2025
Brazil chairs the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) in 2025 after taking up the mettle of presiding over the G20 in 2024. This is an amazing show of diplomatic and technical strength on the part of Brazil. Brazil chose - Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance- as the theme.
A Systems View of BRICS Value Chains, South Africa and BRICS participation in African Continental Free Trade Area
Global value chains have shaped world production and trade. This research article examines the connections between the value chains of the BRIC economies and South Africa's role in positioning BRICS-Africa trade as a member of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) using BRIC value chains that has been tailormade to increase BRICS share of the AfCFTA market. It argues that in order for BRICS's to increase its competitiveness in AfCFTA and the global market, intra-BRICS trade should be based on value chains that has been developed specifically to support BRICS and provide it with the competitive leverage necessary to explore new market opportunities. AfCTA presents such a market. Additionally, the article reveals that for BRICS to succeed in AfCFTA through its value chains, it must recognise South Africa's potential (to host some of these) and its geographic location on the African continent. Furthermore, BRIC needs to appreciate that South Africa can successfully host some of BRIC nations' value chains. This indicates that South Africa's membership of BRICS and AFCTFA provides an opportunity that can benefit BRICS through its participation in AfCFTA using value chains approach. This however requires academic interrogation, which will yield information and knowledge that can be used to formulate programmes, policies and strategies of how BRICS value chains can be of significant support to AfCFTA.
Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of BRICS Studies https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The novel coronavirus has troubled the world, unleashing deaths and a social quagmire. The catastrophic implications of the pandemic pushed states to the brink, compelling them to institute country lockdowns in a bid to flatten the curve of infections, avoid new ones and ensure that the health systems are not overwhelmed at any one point in time. Many states went on lockdowns, leading to corrosive effects on their economies. The death toll in Asia and Europe was astronomical. In the United States of America, Brazil and India, it was unprecedented. Except for a few countries in Europe and Africa that did not act homogeneously, the rest of the world ceased to function. Whilst lockdowns were effective in western countries, in the African continent, it was a different case. Although there was a willingness to institute lockdowns in Africa, the context made it almost impossible for many countries to effectively and efficiently implement. These factors which hampered the workability of lockdowns included high informal employment rates, informal settlements, rampant homelessness, porous borders, a high population density, institutions with vulnerable populations as well as conflict settings. This paper discusses in detail the research findings of the author on the efficacy of lockdowns in Africa. The importance of the study is to equip policymakers with better strategies to make lockdowns more effective through the dissection of problems discovered in the research findings. The paper findings are that lockdowns are problematic to adhere to in the African context. Recommendations are that lockdowns should be context-bound and must get buttressed by government efforts and interventions.