Monday, February 16, 2026

3 Questions: Addressing the world’s most pressing challenges

Mihaela Papa is a name that is making waves in the world of international studies. As the Director of the BRICS Lab at the Center for International Studies, she is leading the charge in finding innovative solutions to some of the world’s most complex challenges.

The BRICS Lab, which stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is a research and policy center that focuses on the emerging economies of these five countries. It was established in 2015 with the aim of promoting cooperation and understanding between these nations, and to find ways to address global issues through collaboration.

In a recent interview, Mihaela Papa shared her thoughts on the BRICS Lab and her role at the Center for International Studies. She emphasized the center’s ongoing ambition to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges in new and creative ways.

One of the main objectives of the BRICS Lab is to promote dialogue and cooperation between the five countries. Mihaela Papa believes that this is crucial in today’s globalized world, where the actions of one nation can have a significant impact on others. By fostering understanding and collaboration, the BRICS Lab aims to create a more stable and prosperous global community.

But the BRICS Lab’s work goes beyond just promoting cooperation between the five countries. It also focuses on finding solutions to some of the world’s most complex challenges, such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. Mihaela Papa and her team are constantly researching and analyzing these issues, looking for innovative ways to address them.

One of the key strengths of the BRICS Lab is its interdisciplinary approach. The team consists of experts from various fields, including economics, political science, and international relations. This diversity of perspectives allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges at hand and enables the team to come up with creative and effective solutions.

Mihaela Papa, who has a background in economics and international relations, brings a unique perspective to the BRICS Lab. Her experience in both academia and the private sector has given her a deep understanding of the complexities of global issues and the importance of finding practical solutions.

Under her leadership, the BRICS Lab has undertaken several research projects and organized numerous events, including conferences, workshops, and seminars. These initiatives have not only helped to promote dialogue and cooperation between the five countries but have also contributed to the global discourse on issues such as sustainable development and international trade.

The BRICS Lab has also been actively involved in promoting youth engagement and empowerment. Mihaela Papa believes that the youth are the key to shaping a better future, and their voices must be heard. The center has organized various programs and competitions to encourage young people to participate in discussions and come up with innovative ideas for addressing global challenges.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of international cooperation and the need for innovative solutions to global issues. The BRICS Lab has been quick to adapt to the new normal and has continued its work through virtual platforms. In fact, the pandemic has only reinforced the center’s belief in the power of collaboration and the need for new and creative approaches to tackle global challenges.

As the world continues to face complex and interconnected challenges, the work of the BRICS Lab and the Center for International Studies becomes even more critical. Mihaela Papa and her team are committed to finding solutions that benefit not only the five countries but the global community as a whole.

In conclusion, Mihaela Papa’s leadership and the work of the BRICS Lab at the Center for International Studies are a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing global challenges. Their efforts are not only promoting cooperation between the five countries but also contributing to the global discourse on finding solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues. With their ongoing ambition and dedication, the BRICS Lab is sure to make a significant impact in the international community.

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