Book excerpt: BRICS countries, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (known as bloc), have been working closely together for more than a decade in areas as politics, economics, culture and security. The bloc plays a crucial role in facilitating the growth of not only emerging markets and developing countries, but also the world economy as a whole. Just as importantly, it contributes significantly towards improving global governance and the welfare of those living in BRICS countries. Contributed by more than 20 experts from major think tanks in BRICS countries, the chapters in this book analyze how the BRICS countries have realized shared prosperity and achieved global prominence by cooperating with one another. In addition, the authors also look at challenges faced by the bloc, and possible solutions to those problems.