Understanding the BASIC Grouping

The question asks to identify which country among the given options is NOT a member of the BASIC grouping. The BASIC grouping is an important bloc of countries that work together on climate change issues.

What is the BASIC Grouping?

BASIC is a bloc of four large newly industrialized countries – Brazil, South Africa, India, and China. This group was formed in November 2009. These countries came together during the 15th Conference of Parties (COP15) to the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) in Copenhagen. Their main purpose is to cooperate and negotiate a common position on climate change within the UNFCCC framework.

Members of BASIC

The four member countries are:

• Brazil
• South Africa
• India
• China

Analysing the Options

Let's compare the list of BASIC members with the countries given in the options:

Based on the analysis, South Africa, China, and Brazil are all members of the BASIC grouping. Kenya is not a member of the BASIC grouping.

Identifying the Non-Member

The question specifically asks for the country that is NOT a member. From the options provided and our understanding of the BASIC group, Kenya is the country that is not part of this grouping.

Revision Table: BASIC Group Key Facts

Additional Information on Climate Change Groupings

Apart from BASIC, there are other groupings and agreements related to climate change negotiations under the UNFCCC:

• G77 + China: A large coalition of developing nations, including all BASIC countries. They advocate for common interests regarding economic development and climate change, emphasizing common but differentiated responsibilities.
• Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS): A group of coastal and island countries particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, such as sea-level rise. They often push for stronger climate action.
• Environmental Integrity Group (EIG): A non-traditional grouping including countries like Switzerland, South Korea, Mexico, and others, often playing a bridging role between developed and developing nations.
• Umbrella Group: A group of non-EU developed countries, including the United States, Australia, Canada, Japan, and others.
• European Union (EU): The 27 member states of the EU negotiate as a single bloc in climate talks.

Understanding these various blocs helps in comprehending the dynamics of international climate change negotiations. The BASIC group represents a significant voice from the developing world, particularly regarding the principle of equity and historical responsibilities in addressing climate change.