2. Intra-BRICS Research Collaboration: Status and Prospects

The chapter explores the evolving landscape of international science and technology cooperation, with a particular focus on the BRICS nations. It underscores the increasing importance of research collaboration among BRICS countries, driven by strategic initiatives such as the BRICS STI Framework Program. The analysis reveals that while there has been significant growth in intra-BRICS collaboration, the intensity varies widely across different thematic areas. Key findings highlight the need for intensified cooperation in areas such as social sciences, humanities, and specific technological fields. The chapter employs innovative indices, including the Relative Intensity of Intra-BRICS Collaboration (RIIC) and BRICS Partners Importance Growth (BPIG) indices, to identify areas with high potential for enhanced collaboration. It also provides a detailed examination of the publication activities and research capacities of BRICS countries, offering a comprehensive overview of their scientific contributions and collaborative efforts. The discussion concludes with recommendations for strengthening intra-BRICS collaboration, emphasizing the importance of targeted support in underrepresented research areas to boost the effectiveness of international scientific partnerships.