Senior government representatives from BRICS member countries have gathered in Kochi, India, for the BRICS Women’s Working Group Meeting under India’s 2026 BRICS Chairship. The two-day forum brings together policymakers and officials to strengthen international cooperation on women’s empowerment, leadership, entrepreneurship, digital inclusion, and sustainable development.
The meeting serves as a key platform for member nations to exchange policy perspectives and develop collaborative initiatives that promote women-led development across the expanded BRICS grouping. Discussions are taking place under India’s BRICS Chairship theme, “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” reflecting a focus on inclusive growth and long-term global partnerships.
Four Priority Areas Guide Policy Discussions
Delegates are focusing on four strategic priorities identified under India’s BRICS Women Track. These include strengthening women’s participation in governance and leadership, expanding financial and digital inclusion, promoting women’s entrepreneurship and skills development, and enhancing women’s contributions to climate action, food security, and nutrition.
Officials emphasized that these themes reflect both the shared aspirations of BRICS nations and the evolving challenges facing economies worldwide. By encouraging collaboration across these areas, member countries aim to develop practical policy recommendations that can improve opportunities for women while supporting broader economic and social development.
The Kochi meeting follows several preparatory consultations held earlier this year, allowing participating countries to build consensus before the in-person discussions. These consultations helped shape the agenda and identify common priorities that can be advanced through collective action.
Women-Led Development Takes Center Stage
A major focus of the discussions is the growing role of women as drivers of economic growth, innovation, and community development. Delegates are exploring ways to improve access to education, finance, technology, and leadership opportunities while addressing barriers that continue to limit women’s participation across multiple sectors.
Entrepreneurship and digital inclusion are receiving particular attention as governments increasingly recognize the importance of expanding access to digital technologies, financial services, and business support systems. Participants are also examining strategies to strengthen women’s representation in decision-making roles across public institutions, private enterprises, and community organizations.
Climate resilience and food security have emerged as additional priorities, with discussions highlighting the important role women play in building sustainable communities and supporting resilient agricultural systems. The meeting aims to encourage greater cooperation among BRICS nations in developing policies that promote inclusive and sustainable development.
Outcomes Expected Ahead of Ministerial Meeting
The Working Group meeting is expected to lay the foundation for the upcoming BRICS Women’s Ministerial Meeting, where ministers will review recommendations and consider future areas of cooperation. The discussions in Kochi are intended to build consensus on policy initiatives that can strengthen collaboration among member countries in the years ahead.
As the expanded BRICS grouping continues increasing its influence on global economic and development issues, women’s empowerment has become an increasingly important component of its broader agenda. Strengthening leadership opportunities, promoting entrepreneurship, and improving digital inclusion are viewed as essential steps toward achieving more inclusive and resilient economic growth.
The Kochi gathering also highlights the growing importance of international cooperation in addressing shared development challenges. By bringing together policymakers from diverse economies, the forum provides an opportunity to exchange best practices, strengthen institutional partnerships, and promote women-led development as a catalyst for sustainable progress across BRICS member nations.
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