Brics and global governance reform : ontological realism for an equitable world order

Abstract

Global governance institutions, rooted in scarcity-driven realist paradigms, perpetuate structural inequities despite reform efforts. This study proposes Ontological Realism, a reformulated realism that rejects resource scarcity and incorporates individual agency through Critical Realist Ontology, as a prerequisite for equitable multilateral reform. Focusing on BRICS (2009-2025), it hypothesises that the bloc’s ontological shift drives measurable equity gains. Using a qualitative-dominant mixed-methods design, the study analyses 17 BRICS summit declarations to construct an Ontological Realism Score (ORS), correlated with an Equity Outcome Index (EOI) comprising International Monetary Fund (IMF) quota shifts, New Development Bank (NDB) lending, and local-currency trade. Findings show that post-2023 ORS surges precede significant EOI gains, with BRICS outperforming a synthetic G20 control and increasing network centrality in global payments. Despite intra-bloc asymmetries, BRICS’ emphasis on ontological peace (freedom from disturbance) and neutrality (bottom-up representation) offers a viable model for reform. Recommendations include reweighting IMF quotas via an ontological equity index and institutionalising civic forums in BRICS and the United Nations (UN). This study redefines realism for a pluralist world order, positioning BRICS as a transformative actor in global governance.