The purpose of the study is to identify the main global challenges of our time that have the greatest negative impact on the BRICS member countries, to analyze the readiness and viability of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to solve the problems that have arisen. The article focuses on such threats to the world order as terrorist activities and illegal drug trafficking, as well as the impact they have on the members of the BRICS economic association. It was noted that the alliance demonstrates its determination and perseverance to resist global challenges, both individually and collectively. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the interdisciplinary consideration of the issue, taking into account the political, economic and geographical features of the conduct of activities by the states of the alliance. As a result of the study, the most dangerous terrorist and smuggling organizations were identified, ways to counter and prevent such activities were identified, and the agreements of the BRICS participants on joint principles for combating the global challenges of our time were characterized.