CHOGM in Samoa, Brics in Kazan: Two summits, two visions for the future

As the world moves towards a multipolar system, international meetings like the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting and the Brics Summit are becoming increasingly significant. In 2024, CHOGM was held in Samoa and the Brics Summit in Kazan, Russia. These two events showcased different approaches and goals, reflecting how countries are choosing various strategies to adapt to the changing global landscape.

Setting the stage: Samoa and Kazan

The 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa is a historic event, as it marks the first time a Pacific Island nation is hosting it. The theme, ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth,’ focusses on building resilience to face challenges like climate change, economic struggles and political issues. Samoa’s Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataafa, emphasised the importance of Commonwealth nations working together, particularly in seeking justice for past wrongs and supporting small island developing states vulnerable to these challenges. The meeting will also highlight how the Commonwealth advocates for smaller nations, especially in tackling climate change and economic pressures, positioning itself as a key global partner.

Meanwhile, the Brics Summit in Kazan focuses on strengthening economic partnerships among its members—Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa—while welcoming new members into the group. The summit is set to address trade cooperation amid disrupted global supply chains due to geopolitical tensions, such as the Ukraine crisis. Although Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the time is not yet ripe for a common Brics currency, he noted that the bloc, now expanded to 10 nations, is exploring the use of digital currencies in mutual trade and investment, with Russia working closely with India and others.

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Thematic divergences

Commonwealth’s focus on resilience

CHOGM 2024 comes against the backdrop of pressing issues for member nations, particularly those most vulnerable to climate change. The meeting is likely to emphasise sustainable development, with discussions on financing mechanisms for climate adaptation and addressing food security concerns exacerbated by global warming.

Additionally, reparations for colonial legacies are expected to feature prominently, as candidates for the Commonwealth Secretary-General position advocate for reparative justice.

Samoa’s unique cultural context will bring a fresh perspective to discussions on development and resilience, particularly reflecting the challenges faced by Pacific Island nations.

Brics and economic cooperation

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In contrast, Brics will focus on economic strength and independence. The Kazan summit is expected to see members working on bolstering trade partnerships to reduce Western economic control. The inclusion of new members reflects BRICS’ ambition to expand its influence in global affairs.

This focus on economic cooperation highlights the desire of emerging economies to play a larger role in shaping a world order often dominated by Western ideals. Brics members are pushing for a more balanced, multipolar world as they aim to secure their economic positions amid global uncertainty.

Geopolitical significance

The geopolitical significance of these summits is clear. CHOGM, with its focus on social justice and climate resilience, promotes inclusivity and collaboration. It provides smaller nations, especially those most affected by climate change, a platform to raise their voices and push for policies that address their specific challenges.

In a world increasingly aware of the unequal effects of climate change, CHOGM offers an opportunity for small nations to advocate for reforms in global governance, ensuring that their concerns are heard on a larger scale.

On the other hand, Brics is positioning itself to challenge the current global order by uniting powerful emerging economies. This move is both strategic and symbolic, reflecting a shift away from Western-dominated global governance. The Brics Summit will likely concentrate on strengthening economic ties and promoting a multipolar world where developing nations hold more power.

These contrasts between CHOGM and Brics reflect the varied approaches countries are taking to global challenges, balancing humanitarian concerns with economic ambitions.

Influence and future directions

Both CHOGM and Brics address critical global issues, but they approach them from different angles. CHOGM fosters dialogue and cooperation centred on humanitarian goals, while Brics takes a more pragmatic, business-oriented approach focussed on economic gains. This contrast highlights the diverse priorities on the world stage: some nations prioritise sustainable development and social justice, while others emphasise economic growth and geopolitical influence. Interestingly, countries like India and South Africa straddle both the Commonwealth and Brics, embodying the balancing act between these two distinct approaches.

Looking ahead, CHOGM may lead to new initiatives on climate action and reparations, potentially shaping international policies. Meanwhile, Brics could reshape trade relationships and global economic power dynamics, influencing markets and political alliances in the process.

The CHOGM in Samoa and the Brics Summit in Kazan reflect the different paths nations are navigating in a rapidly changing world. Each summit focuses on distinct challenges and priorities and the discussions held will undoubtedly shape the future of global politics. The outcomes will not only mirror the priorities of member countries but will also influence the trajectory of international relations in an increasingly interconnected world.

Both events demonstrate the need for flexible approaches to address the complexities of global governance, encouraging nations to find common ground despite their differing objectives. As Samoa and Kazan host these key summits, the world watches closely to see how global cooperation and competition evolve.