Advancing Health through Physical Activity and Leisure in BRICS Plus Nations: A Report from the BRICSCESS Plus Association

The shift from BRICS to BRICS+ signifies a major step forward in global cooperation among emerging economies, with an emphasis on inclusivity, shared development, and collaboration among developing nations. As the bloc expands to include countries such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Indonesia, opportunities for joint health promotion efforts have also increased. Within this broader context, the BRICS Council of Exercise and Sport Science (BRICSCESS) has evolved into BRICSCESS+, a global platform focused on advancing health through physical activity, sport, and leisure. This article explores the growth, aims, and impact of BRICSCESS+, particularly its role in combating physical inactivity and non-communicable diseases in the Global South. Established in 2014 and formally launched in 2015, BRICSCESS has fostered international cooperation through biennial congresses, research partnerships, and community-driven initiatives. Its transformation into BRICSCESS+ mirrors the inclusive vision of the expanded BRICS+ alliance. Drawing on comparative research—including a doctoral study on Physical Education across the original BRICS countries—the article investigates how cultural, systemic, and policy environments influence health promotion strategies. Case studies from new BRICS+ members, such as Ethiopia’s grassroots programs, Iran’s school-based initiatives, and Saudi Arabia’s national fitness campaigns, further illustrate this integration. The article also highlights the successful BRICSCESS congresses held in Brazil (2017), South Africa (2019), and India (2024), and looks ahead to the 2026 event in Moscow. It concludes that BRICSCESS+ serves as a vital, evidence-informed platform for advancing sustainable, holistic health development across emerging nations.

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