The accelerated growth of the economies of Brazil, China, India and Russia illustrates that a significant change in the distribution of global economic power is under way, and this volume provides a succinct and comprehensive guide to this important group of nations. The book seeks to highlight the main objectives and organizational features of the BRICS group including the driving forces behind its creation as well as those that currently hold it together. By analysing the BRICS significance and effectiveness in the international arena, the volume explains the group's relative success despite the tensions and divergent interests in the bilateral relations of its members as well as their differences regarding their collective role in the changing international system. It then moves on to evaluate the future of the BRICS as a group examining its future challenges, arguing that by resisting institutionalisation and privileging flexiblity over binding arrangements, the group will continue to prosper. This work will be essential reading for students of international organisations, emerging markets, the BRICS and international relations in general.