BRICS in a Multipolar World: Shaping the New Global Order examines the expanding role of BRICS as a leading force in the transition towards a more balanced, inclusive and multipolar international order. Amid accelerating geopolitical shifts, technological disruption, climate imperatives, and evolving economic realities, BRICS has emerged as a pivotal platform for advancing strategic cooperation, strengthening the voice of the Global South, and promoting a more equitable framework for global governance.

Through 17 insightful chapters authored by distinguished scholars, policymakers, and strategic experts, this volume explores the key dimensions that shape the BRICS agenda, including multipolarity, strategic autonomy, digital transformation, technological innovation, financial cooperation, sustainability, climate action, economic resilience, and traditional and non-traditional security. The contributors critically examine both the opportunities and the challenges confronting BRICS as it seeks to influence the future architecture of global governance.

Bringing together diverse perspectives from across disciplines and regions, this timely volume offers a comprehensive assessment of the evolving role of BRICS in shaping the new global order. It serves as an essential resource for policymakers, diplomats, academics, researchers, strategic affairs practitioners, and all those interested in understanding one of the most consequential geopolitical and economic transformations of the twenty-first century.

Prof Lalit Aggarwal is currently Vice-President, MERI Group of Institutions & Chairman, MERI Start-up Hub. A distinguished educationist, he has devoted his career for advancing quality education since 1991 and has been instrumental in establishing MERI as a multidisciplinary centre of excellence. Under his leadership, MERI has expanded its academic presence in Engineering, Management, Law, Journalism, IT and Teacher Education, with a strong emphasis on innovation, research and global collaboration. An institution builder, he has founded several educational ventures and forged international partnerships with institutions across the globe, ensuring students gain real-world exposure and global perspectives. He holds an Engineering degree from NIT Rourkela and postgraduate qualifications in Computer Science and Personnel Management. A prolific writer and mentor, he has authored books and research papers while guiding students and faculty in their academic and professional journeys. He has been engaged in social and philanthropic initiatives and widely respected for his vision, leadership and commitment to excellence in education.

Email: vp@meri.edu.in

Prof (Dr.) Ramakant Dwivedi is currently Head of the MERI Centre for International Studies, New Delhi, since November 4, 2024, and is also Director of the India Central Asia Foundation (ICAF), New Delhi. He was a Visiting Research Fellow at the Al-Beruni Institute of Oriental Studies, Tashkent (1998-2001), Associate Fellow at MP-IDSA (2003-2007) and Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the National Security Advisor`s Office, Prime Minister`s Office, Government of India (2007-2024). He has represented India in 14 countries as a domain expert and official delegate, published 55 research papers and authored/edited 12 books on international relations. He received the Nehru Memorial Scholarship for Doctoral Studies (1998-2000), Commendation Certificate and Letter of Appreciation (2004) from the MP-IDSA. He was conferred the Diploma of Honorary Professor from UIDT, Tajikistan (2025), Golden Peak Award from NAM, Kyrgyz Republic (2026) and Al-Farabi Medal from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Kazakhstan (2026). He is also a Visiting Professor at the Diplomatic Academy at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, Uzbekistan.

Email: rkdwivedi@meri.edu.in