South Africa in the BRICS: Opportunities, Challenges and Prospects1

Abstract

This study investigates the participation of South Africa in the BRICS group from an analytical perspective. It is argued that South Africa’s membership to this group entails both opportunities and challenges for South Africa, the continent and the system of global governance. We seek to flesh out the potential mediumand long-term implications as well as the benefits and risks of South Africa’s membership in the areas pertaining to trade, foreign policy and development.