BRICS and One-Health
Context:
As the global community faces the intertwined crises of climate change and public health, the BRICS+ bloc holds immense potential to lead in integrated solutions for these challenges.
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- BRICS+, now accounting for over 40% of the global population and significant forest areas, has a unique opportunity to address climate and health challenges collaboratively.
- The inclusion of emerging economies strengthens the bloc’s potential to influence global governance and sustainability.
BRICS
Formation and Purpose: The term BRIC was coined in 2001 by economist Jim O’Neill to describe emerging economies poised for significant growth. South Africa joined in 2010, making it BRICS. The group aims to promote economic cooperation and political coordination among its members, addressing issues such as global governance and development.
Economic Significance: Collectively, BRICS nations represent around 45% of the world’s population and approximately 28% of the global economy.
Geopolitical Context: BRICS seeks to challenge the dominance of Western powers in international affairs and promote a multipolar world order.
Future Prospects: BRICS, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded to include additional members, particularly in 2024. As of January 1, 2024, the new members are: Saudi Arabia, Iran, United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Ethiopia. This expansion reflects the bloc’s desire to enhance its influence on the global stage and provide a counterbalance to Western-dominated institutions.
Climate-Health Nexus and the One Health Approach
- The One Health framework provides a holistic methodology to address the interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health.
- Environmental degradation and climate variability increase the risk of zoonotic diseases, particularly in biodiversity-rich regions of the Global South.
BRICS’ Track Record in Climate Diplomacy
- BRICS has historically prioritised mitigation and adaptation strategies but now needs to integrate health cooperation into its climate action plans.
- India, among BRICS nations, leads in Climate Performance Index (CPI) scores, demonstrating the feasibility of combining development goals with effective climate action.
Pandemic Preparedness and Health Diplomacy
- During COVID-19, BRICS members emerged as vital sources of vaccines for developing nations, highlighting their potential to lead in global health governance.
- Addressing the spillover of climate impacts on health requires BRICS+ to expand its external cooperation and influence.
Environmental Assets and Public Health Imperatives
- BRICS nations’ vast forested terrains serve as crucial ecological assets but also pose risks as hotspots for pandemics.
- Effective management of natural resources is essential for safeguarding both biodiversity and public health.
Recommendations for BRICS Leadership
- Integrate Climate and Health Policies: Develop unified frameworks that incorporate health considerations into climate strategies.
- Examples include increasing green spaces in urban planning, reducing air pollution, and improving heatwave management systems.
- Promote One Health as a Core Strategy: Adopt and advocate the One Health framework in global health and environmental governance.
- Enhance Global Health Governance Role: Actively engage in WHO, UNFCCC, and similar forums to influence policies that integrate health safeguards into climate strategies.
- Advocate for equitable and inclusive approaches to health and climate crises on international platforms.
- Leverage Technology for Climate and Health Resilience: Focus on innovation and technology transfer, including renewable energy solutions, advanced disease surveillance systems, and efficient water purification technologies.
- Champion Sustainable Development: Align developmental goals with climate resilience and public health priorities.
- By adopting the One Health framework, fostering innovation, and strengthening their role in global diplomacy, the bloc can set benchmarks for sustainable development. A coordinated approach by BRICS+ can pave the way for a healthier and more resilient global future.
