Serbia has expressed growing interest in joining BRICS, viewing the bloc as a better alternative to the European Union, according to Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vulin. In a recent interview, Vulin argued that BRICS offers significant economic and political opportunities without the conditions imposed by the EU.
As Montenegro navigates its own foreign policy and economic goals, Serbia’s pivot towards BRICS raises important regional questions, particularly regarding the long-term implications for the Western Balkans and the EU’s influence.
Economic opportunities without political pressure
Vulin emphasized that Serbia’s potential BRICS membership would allow for economic cooperation without political interference. Unlike the EU, BRICS does not require member states to adjust their domestic laws, recognize Kosovo’s independence, or take sides in international conflicts such as the war in Ukraine. This non-interventionist stance could appeal to countries like Montenegro, which also face complex foreign policy challenges.
BRICS — an alliance of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—controls a large portion of the world’s natural resources, including 51% of global gas and 47% of oil, making it a strong alternative to Western-dominated economic blocs. This highlights the strategic value of the group for countries looking to maintain sovereignty while pursuing growth, a consideration that could resonate with Montenegro’s own economic aspirations.
Military neutrality and regional dynamics
For Serbia, joining BRICS is not only about economic benefits but also about maintaining military neutrality. Vulin noted that Serbia would not compromise its long-standing relationship with Russia or engage in conflicts to satisfy EU demands. This stance aligns with Serbia’s broader strategy of avoiding entanglement in Western military and political disputes, which could also influence Montenegro’s approach to balancing its NATO membership with broader regional dynamics.
As Montenegro shares deep historical and cultural ties with both Serbia and the EU, Serbia’s potential shift towards BRICS could create new pressures on Montenegro’s foreign policy, as it seeks to balance regional cooperation with its European integration ambitions.
Expanding BRICS and regional impact
BRICS continues to grow, with countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Iran joining its ranks, and others, such as Azerbaijan, expressing interest. This expansion highlights the bloc’s increasing relevance in global economic and political arenas, which could further influence countries in the Western Balkans, including Montenegro.
For Montenegro, Serbia’s potential membership in BRICS introduces new complexities to its regional alliances. The country’s own path to EU integration could be impacted by shifting regional dynamics, with neighboring countries potentially gravitating toward alternative alliances that promise economic benefits without political strings attached.
Montenegro’s position in a shifting landscape
As Serbia explores its options with BRICS, Montenegro faces important strategic decisions. The possibility of further regional divergence from the EU could lead Montenegro to reaffirm its commitment to European integration or explore new forms of regional cooperation that maintain its sovereignty while promoting economic growth.
Montenegro’s leaders will need to carefully monitor how Serbia’s engagement with BRICS evolves, particularly as it may shape the broader geopolitical and economic landscape in the Balkans.
Ultimately, the region’s future will depend on how countries like Montenegro navigate these complex alliances, balancing their historical ties and modern economic interests with their aspirations for EU membership.
