BASIC group of countries

BASIC group of countries

Part of: Prelims and GS-III – Defence and security 

Context On the opening day of the COP26, Indian Environment Minister delivered a statement on behalf of the BASIC group of countries — Brazil, South Africa, India and China.

• These major developing economies are significant polluters but bear diminished responsibility for the carbon dioxide.
• They also have low per capita emissions because of their significant populations.

Demands of the BASIC countries

• Conclude Paris Agreement Rulebook at COP26.
  • The Rulebook will set the Paris Agreement in motion by laying out the tools and processes to ensure it is implemented fairly and properly.
• CBDR-RC: Full effect must be given to implementation of the principles of Equity and Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC). 
• Accord time and policy space: Developing countries must be accorded time, policy space and support to transition towards a low emissions future.

About BASIC

• The BASIC group was formed as the result of an agreement signed by the four countries on November 28, 2009.
• Countries – Brazil, South Africa, India and China.

Significance of the grouping:

• These nations have common positions on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and raising the massive funds that are needed to fight climate change.
• The grouping is significant because Brazil, South Africa, India and China together have one-third of the world’s geographical area and nearly 40% of the world’s population, and when they unitedly speak in one voice this shows their determination.