BRICS sets out digital priorities in New Delhi Declaration
The BRICS countries have adopted a declaration outlining cooperation on digital public infrastructure, cybersecurity, AI governance, digital skills, connectivity and other emerging technologies.
Leaders of the BRICS countries adopted the New Delhi Declaration at the group’s 18th summit, held in New Delhi on 12–13 September 2026. The declaration sets out a broad range of commitments covering digital technologies, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, connectivity, skills, and emerging technologies.
On cybersecurity, the BRICS countries reaffirmed support for an open, safe, secure, stable, accessible, peaceful, and interoperable ICT environment. They welcomed the operationalisation of the UN Global Mechanism on ICT security and encouraged states to sign and ratify the UN Convention against Cybercrime to support its entry into force.
The declaration also calls for continued cooperation through the BRICS Working Group on Security in the Use of ICTs, including policy exchanges, information sharing among Computer Emergency Response Teams, law enforcement cooperation, and joint research. Members identified cybercrime, malicious software, data security, misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and deepfakes among the challenges requiring coordinated action.
Digital infrastructure is another priority. BRICS members called for deeper cooperation on resilient, safe, secure, inclusive, and interoperable digital public infrastructure and digital public goods. The declaration proposes creating a digital public infrastructure repository for BRICS countries and developing pilot projects, as well as establishing a digital ecosystem cooperation network.
The declaration also refers to a feasibility study for a high-speed submarine cable network connecting BRICS countries. Members encouraged the BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation Steering Committee to propose next steps, while taking national priorities and regulations into account.
On AI, the declaration describes the technology as an opportunity for economic growth and sustainable development. BRICS members called for international cooperation to improve access to AI resources while promoting safety, security, inclusiveness, and reliability. They also highlighted energy efficiency, AI research and innovation, trustworthy AI, and measures to address potential risks.
The declaration further commits BRICS members to implementing their previous statement on the global governance of AI. It also addresses intellectual property in the digital environment, including the use of copyrighted works for AI training. Members recognised the importance of respecting IP rights and providing fair remuneration to right holders, while taking into account the needs of developing countries.
Digital skills feature prominently in the declaration. BRICS members encouraged cooperation on digital skilling, digital literacy, and workforce preparedness. They also proposed capacity-building centres for digital skills and highlighted initiatives covering women’s digital capacity, remote employment, and skills for emerging sectors.
The declaration extends digital cooperation to areas including health, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, finance, and statistical systems. It mentions initiatives such as the BRICS Network on Digital Agriculture, the Compendium on Digital Health Architecture, cooperation on smart grids and energy storage, and work supporting the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies.
Members also recognised the importance of quantum technologies and continued cooperation in the field. In financial services, they highlighted cybersecurity cooperation, annual cyber exercises and drills, and the need to strengthen cyber resilience.
Beyond digital issues, the declaration covers global governance, multilateral finance, trade, taxation, critical minerals, and outer space. On space, BRICS members reaffirmed their commitment to the peaceful exploration and use of outer space and to the long-term sustainability of space activities.
