The BRICS New Delhi Declaration, released on 12 September 2026, deserves far wider attention than it has yet received. At nearly 17,800 words, it is an unusually expansive consensus document—one that not only reflects two decades of BRICS evolution but also articulates a broad, justice‑centred vision for global governance at a moment of profound international distress. In an era marked by wars, sanctions, widening inequalities, and geopolitical fragmentation, the Declaration’s emphasis on peace, equity, and multilateral reform is both timely and necessary.
The statement opens by reaffirming the “BRICS spirit of mutual respect and understanding, sovereign equality, solidarity, democracy, openness, inclusiveness, collaboration and consensus.” This is not mere rhetoric. Across its many sections, the Declaration lays out a coherent critique of existing global power structures and proposes a more representative and humane international order—one that places developing countries at the centre rather than the margins.
A Stronger Voice for the Global South
One of the Declaration’s most consequential contributions is its insistence on meaningful representation for Emerging Markets and Developing Countries (EMDCs) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). It notes bluntly that “no woman has ever been elected for the role of Secretary General” of the United Nations and highlights the persistent underrepresentation of Africa, Asia, and Latin America in senior UN positions. This is not simply a matter of symbolism; it is about legitimacy and fairness in global decision‑making.
The document’s commitment to multipolarity is equally important. It argues that a multipolar world “can expand opportunities for EMDCs to develop their constructive potential,” positioning the Global South as a driver of positive change amid geopolitical tensions, economic downturns, and climate disruptions. In doing so, BRICS positions itself as a counterweight to unilateralism and exclusionary global governance.
Reform of Global Institutions
The Declaration’s sections on global governance are unusually detailed. It calls for reform of the Bretton Woods Institutions to make them “more agile, effective, credible, inclusive, fit for purpose, unbiased, accountable, and representative.” It also reaffirms support for a rules‑based multilateral trading system anchored in the WTO, while sharply criticizing unilateral tariff hikes, protectionist measures disguised as environmental policy, and sanctions regimes that violate international law.
The condemnation of unilateral coercive measures is particularly forceful. The Declaration warns that such sanctions have “far‑reaching negative implications for…development, health and food security,” disproportionately harming vulnerable populations. This is a rare collective stance from major economies against the weaponization of economic policy.
A Clear Stand on Wars, Weapons, and Peace
The Declaration’s security sections are among its strongest. It expresses alarm at rising global military expenditure and calls for reinvigorating disarmament and non‑proliferation systems. It reaffirms support for nuclear‑weapon‑free zones and urges all parties to participate constructively in efforts to establish such zones in the Middle East.
The commitment to the Women, Peace and Security agenda is also notable, emphasizing the “full, equal, safe, and meaningful participation of women” in peace processes—an area where global progress has been slow and uneven.
Justice‑Based Positions on Cuba, Palestine, Syria, Lebanon, and Sudan
Where the Declaration is most striking is in its treatment of ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises.
Cuba: The statement expresses “deep concern” over the tightening of blockade measures and calls for ending economic and financial restrictions in accordance with UN resolutions. This is a rare collective rebuke of policies that have long harmed the Cuban people.
Palestine: The Declaration’s language on Gaza and Palestine is unusually strong for a multilateral document. It calls for full implementation of UN resolutions, condemns forced displacement, and insists that a just solution “depends on the fulfilment of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including the rights to self‑determination and return.” It also reaffirms support for Palestine’s full UN membership and stresses that the 1967 borders—including Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem—must form the basis of a two‑state solution.
Syria, Lebanon, Sudan: On Syria, the Declaration reiterates support for a Syrian‑led political process and calls for withdrawal of occupying forces. On Lebanon, it urges strict adherence to the ceasefire and condemns attacks on UNIFIL personnel. On Sudan, it calls for an immediate ceasefire and emphasizes the principle of “African solutions to African problems.”
Across these sections, the Declaration consistently foregrounds humanitarian access, civilian protection, and adherence to international law—principles too often ignored in contemporary conflict diplomacy.
Food Security, Agriculture, and Energy
The Declaration also addresses structural issues that shape global stability. It highlights BRICS’ role in world food production and supports initiatives such as the BRICS Grain Exchange and farmer‑centric networks like BRICS AGRIN. It recognizes the importance of smallholders, fishers, pastoralists, and indigenous communities—groups frequently sidelined in global agricultural policy.
On energy, the Declaration acknowledges that fossil fuels will remain part of the energy mix for developing economies but stresses the need for “just, orderly, equitable and inclusive energy transitions.” This balanced approach avoids both denialism and unrealistic expectations.
A Needed Message in Troubled Times
One need not agree with every line of this extensive document to appreciate its core message: that justice, peace, and inclusive development must guide global governance. At a moment when the world is beset by conflict, polarization, and economic distress, the BRICS New Delhi Declaration offers a rare, comprehensive, and principled roadmap for a fairer international order.
Its call for multilateralism, equity, and respect for international law should be welcomed—and taken seriously.
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Bharat Dogra is Honorary Convener, Campaign to Save Earth Now. His recent books include Planet in Peril, Man over Machine, Earth without Borders, Protecting Earth for Children and A Day in 2071. His website is bharatdogra.in and his YouTube channel is Bharat Dogra | Save Earth Campaign
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