Population trends in BRICS: Developments and projections

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to analyze population trends in the BRICS countries in the period from 2000 to 2019 based on local realities and socio-economic indexes, as well as to study projections up to 2050. The article also explores initiatives of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in the field of demographic research relevant to BRICS, such as fertility, birth, and mortality rates. Thus, it is possible to determine the main characteristics of the population of the BRICS countries, their challenges and objectives, which allow us to predict with an eye to 2050 and the dynamics of the evolution of each member of the international cooperation grouping. Overall, it is argued that urbanization processes were one of the key factors driving population trends in the BRICS countries, especially those related to lower fertility rates. Finally, the current situation of BRICS in the international scenario is evaluated, given the explored attributes, with an emphasis on the importance of public policies favorable for the full development of the potential of the BRICS population. Therefore, member states’ initiatives to promote higher levels of social welfare are investigated, as well as their benefits to local peoples, who together account for more than 40% of the world’s total population.