This article focuses on BRICS interaction with other international organizations in fulfilling the global governance functions. The study is based on the qualitative and quantitative analysis of references to international institutions in the BRICS documents, identifying and examining the models, intensity and distribution of interactions.

The findings of the study suggest that the dynamics of BRICS engagement with other international institutions is positive. However, despite the increase in the absolute number of references, a decrease in their intensity is observed. This trend persists in spite of the expansion of BRICS agenda and the establishment of cooperation mechanisms involving BRICS and other international institutions in new areas.

BRICS engagement with international institutions is characterized by two basic models: the “catalyst” approach and “parallel treatment”. In addition, BRICS countries use mechanisms for coordinating their positions in international institutions on issues relevant to their agenda and broader policy areas. The establishment of the BRICS own institutions has not led to a noticeable decrease in the number and intensity of references to other international organizations. Thus, the BRICS and its New Development Bank and Contingent Reserve Arrangement should not be considered as one more tool for the development of multilateralism and coordination rather than alternatives or competitors to the existing international institutions.

The analysis leads to the conclusion that to further enhance the effectiveness of global governance mechanisms it is necessary for BRICS to intensify its cooperation with other institutions, giving the priority to leadership in setting their priorities and identifying new areas of work, concrete decisions to support them, delegation of mandates and development of mechanisms for coordinating the positions of the five countries rather than just discussing the institutions’ activities.