The Return of Bloc Politics: Historical Parallels Between BRICS and the Non-Aligned Movement

This study examines the transformation of the international system from a unipolar order to a new bloc architecture. The analysis focuses on two key Global South formations – BRICS and the Non-Aligned Movement – investigating their evolution within the context of global geopolitical changes after 2022. The research employs comparative and statistical analysis with a systematic approach, analyzing UN voting patterns, economic indicators of BRICS+ countries, and official statements. The methodology includes historical analysis of international organizations' evolution and content analysis of diplomatic documents. The study's key contribution is the conceptualization of "soft alignment" as a new form of international relations, distinguished from Cold War blocs by the absence of hierarchy and ideological coercion. The research reveals a correlation between countries' participation in China's Belt and Road Initiative and their voting on Ukraine-related UN resolutions. The author demonstrates the Non-Aligned Movement's transformation from passive neutrality to active strategic autonomy. The systematic analysis of UN votes on Ukrainian and Palestinian issues illustrates the changing balance of power in the international arena. The research identifies four key factors shaping African states' positions: regime security, economic interests, historical memory, and disappointment with Western solidarity. Special attention is paid to Western sanctions policy and attempts to interfere in sovereign states' internal affairs. The findings indicate the formation of a new international order based on multiple decision-making centers, rejection of any country group's monopoly on international law interpretation, and recognition of each state's right to its own development model.