The role of the BRICS group in the international arena: a legal network under construction

ABSTRACT Starting from the first summit, which focused on the economic dimension, the BRICS countries have broadened the group’s horizons to other issues. Contrary to sceptical predictions, the group was able, at that time, to overcome differences and stress common features. Under these premises, this paper will briefly examine the instruments used by BRICS to create a unique form of legal network, based on soft law policies and legal transplant and exchange of best law practices; however, the absence of coherent decisions in the group’s external actions and the lack of implementation of certain internal projects also represent relevant drawbacks. Through the analysis of BRICS’ internal and external activities and forms of cooperation, this work aims at discussing important issues related to the future of the group and its role in the international dimension: will BRICS be able to act as a unified bloc in the global arena? Will these states be able to strengthen their cooperation? In conclusion, the BRICS union is an innovative phenomenon of global cooperation and well worth studying; nonetheless, some critical reflections and developments are required in order to consider the group a successful actor on the international scene.