The five countries making up the BRICS have become emblematic of a shift in world influence and economic growth. All five have enjoyed significant and sustained economic growth over the last two decades.
The BRICS share a political will to extend social security coverage, and the dynamic economic environment has facilitated efforts to achieve this aim. For most of the countries, there is also a “demographic window” as an incentive to act now – young populations with growing workforces make extension measures easier to put in place.
The country chapters in the ISSA report highlight the diverse approaches of the BRICS to the challenges each country faces in respect of extending social security coverage. They show how responses take into account the local realities and environment in each country.