As of 2014, the five BRICS countries represent almost 3 billion people which is 40% of the world population, with a combined nominal GDP of US$16.039 trillion (20% world GDP) and an estimated US$4 trillion in combined foreign reserves. As of 2014, the BRICS nations represented 18 percent of the world economy. BRICS leaders have approved creating a New Development Bank which would fund long-term investment in infrastructure and more sustainable development. It then estimates the likely level of

more »

... oans that this New Development Bank could make, under different assumptions. It highlights the complementary role that such a bank would play with existing development banks and shows its importance for enhancing the influence of BRICS and other developing countries in the international development architecture. On the other hand, there are doubts about the nature and coherence of the group. There is also concern that the economic agenda of BRICS could pose new challenges to human rights and development, particularly given the absence of domestic frameworks for accountability on international engagements.