BRICS aims to strengthen cooperation among its member countries to foster socioeconomic development, reduce poverty and unemployment, and promote sustainable growth and social justice. Initially comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS expanded in 2024 to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, the UAE, and potentially Saudi Arabia. Since the South African presidency of the BRICS in 2023 , initiatives like the BRICS Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work Platform, gained force. In 2025, during the Brazilian presidency the topic was included in the ministerial declaration of ministers of labour , alongside with by transitions and artificial intelligence. The BRICS countries are addressing global challenges such as climate change, decent employment, and inclusive governance by facilitating knowledge-sharing and cooperation.
A key focus for BRICS is the relationship between productivity and decent work. Although higher productivity often correlates with better wages and improved living standards, this link depends on strong institutions and policies. Decent work environments can also enhance productivity, creating a mutually reinforcing dynamic. In this context, the study Decent Work and Productivity in Brazil explores how productivity and job quality intersect in Brazil. It contributes to the broader BRICS agenda and South-South cooperation by sharing Brazil’s experiences and strategies, offering insights for mutual learning among Global South countries. The study also supports ongoing technical cooperation within the BRICS Productivity Ecosystems Platform.