CGTN poll: Expanded BRICS ushers in new era of multilateral cooperation

The five-colored Amazon kapok tree takes root in fertile soil, its branches reaching towards the sky – symbolizing unity, inclusivity and development. The emblem reflects the vibrant vitality of the BRICS cooperation mechanism. As the first summit following the inclusion of Indonesia and 10 partner countries into the BRICS framework, the debut of the “expanded BRICS” has attracted significant global attention.

A poll released by CGTN for global netizens shows that 91.2 percent of respondents believe the BRICS cooperation mechanism has become an important force in promoting a multipolar world with equality and order, as well as inclusive and shared economic globalization.

In recent years, regional conflicts have persisted, and tariff bullying has become increasingly rampant. The BRICS cooperation mechanism stands out as one of the few bright spots in a world economy struggling to recover. Member countries have actively promoted local currency settlements and the construction of an independent financial system through initiatives such as the New Development Bank and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement – bringing development gains and opportunities to more developing nations.

According to the survey, 94.7 percent of respondents believe the BRICS mechanism has not only reduced member countries’ dependence on the U.S. dollar but also strengthened their voice in global financial governance. Additionally, 89.1 percent praised BRICS for providing valuable, practical experience in driving world economic growth and helping shape a fairer, more inclusive global governance system. Another 91.2 percent said BRICS countries are expected to become an “accelerator” of global economic recovery and trade development.

BRICS countries are also deepening cooperation in emerging fields such as low-carbon technologies and cross-border e-commerce. A total of 93.3 percent of respondents believe this collaboration has helped optimize and upgrade economic structures while offering practical pathways towards achieving global sustainable development goals.

With its recent expansion, the BRICS group now represents nearly half of the global population, over 30 percent of global economic output, and contributes more than 50 percent of global economic growth. When adjusted for purchasing power parity, the group’s total economic output surpasses that of the G7. It has become a key multilateral platform for emerging economies and the Global South.

The survey shows that 88.9 percent of respondents believe BRICS’ global influence continues to grow. Another 89.1 percent believe this will help advance global governance in a more democratic and just direction. Furthermore, 91.7 percent agree that the BRICS countries – guided by the spirit of openness, inclusivity and win-win cooperation – offer important insights for building a more just, democratic and equitable international order.

From promoting the BRICS spirit of openness, inclusiveness and cooperation, to building the “four major partnerships” among member states; from the innovative “BRICS+” model to support for expansion, China has consistently championed mutual development within BRICS. In the survey, 90.4 percent of respondents recognized China’s role and expressed hope that it will continue to provide experience and opportunities for emerging economies and Global South countries to achieve modernization.

The survey was conducted on CGTN’s English, Spanish, French, Arabic and Russian platforms. A total of 6,541 overseas netizens participated within a 24-hour period