The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a prominent Jakarta-based think tank, has offered critical analysis regarding Indonesia’s formal entry into the BRICS bloc. While the Indonesian government framed its membership as a “strategic step,” a CSIS slams explanation that might overlook potential geopolitical ramifications. Indonesia officially became the first Southeast Asian nation to join BRICS on January 7, 2025, a decision strongly prioritized by President Prabowo Subianto.

Muhammad Waffaa Kharisma, a researcher at CSIS, articulated concerns that joining BRICS inevitably brings Indonesia closer to the influence of China and Russia. This CSIS slams explanation that merely presents BRICS membership as a neutral, economic diversification move. Kharisma suggested that this alignment could potentially strain Indonesia’s relationships with long-standing partners, particularly in the West, who are often at odds with Beijing and Moscow.

Another point where CSIS slams explanation given by the government is the economic rationale. Kharisma pointed out that Indonesia does not have a strong track record of economic cooperation with BRICS countries other than China. He questioned whether BRICS investments truly prioritize cooperation among members and noted a lack of emphasis on domestic reforms related to environment and labor standards within the bloc’s investment patterns.

The critical stance from CSIS slams explanation that might portray BRICS membership as a simple expansion of markets without considering the broader geopolitical chessboard. With a potential second Trump administration in the U.S., CSIS highlighted that the U.S. could become “much more reactionary and protectionist,” possibly viewing BRICS as a counterweight to Western economic institutions.

Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has defended the BRICS admission as an “embodiment of Indonesia’s independent and active foreign policy,” asserting it strives to “bridge the interests of developing countries and the Indo-Pacific region.” However, CSIS’s analysis suggests that maintaining strict non-alignment while deepening ties with BRICS, particularly its dominant members, presents a complex diplomatic challenge for Jakarta.