WHY WAS SOUTH AFRICA’S MEMBERSHIP OF THE BRICS GROUP REGARDED AS CONTROVERSIAL? 3.1 Refer to Source 3A - NSC History - Question 3 - 2016 - Paper 2

China is regarded as the most dominant member of the BRICS group primarily due to its status as the world's second-largest economy. With the largest population, China commands considerable market strength and investment potential, significantly influencing the dynamics within BRICS. Moreover, China's rapid economic growth has also positioned it as a leader in global trade, allowing it to spearhead initiatives and collaborations among member states. China's vigorous participation in BRICS meets both economic and geopolitical interests, reinforcing its role as a driving force.

According to the source, China viewed South Africa as an 'attractive country' due to its vast mineral wealth and potential for economic collaboration. South Africa has a significant agricultural sector and is a major producer of various precious metals, providing essential resources for China’s industrial needs. Additionally, China's interest in expanding its influence in Africa aligns with South Africa's strategic location and development opportunities.

The source mentions that critics felt other emerging economies with faster economic growth than South Africa should have been prioritized for inclusion in BRICS. This criticism indicates a perception that South Africa's membership was contentious and not universally accepted among stakeholders.

The countries that attended the BRICS Summit in New Delhi included Brazil, India, and China.

In the cartoon, the mood of the BRICS group is depicted as joyful and celebratory, with members shown singing, dancing, and smiling. This conveys a sense of unity and enthusiasm among the member countries, suggesting a strong collaborative spirit as they come together in celebration of their economic and political relationships.

The expression 'WE HAVE FOUND COMMON GROUND FOR A MULTI-POLAR WORLD' refers to the BRICS group's shared commitment to establishing a global order that is not dominated by a single superpower. It underscores the BRICS nations' collaborative efforts to create a more balanced international system, promoting diversity in global governance.

O’Neill’s disapproval of South Africa’s membership in BRICS stemmed from the belief that South Africa's relatively small economy and population did not warrant inclusion compared to larger economies within the group. He suggested that South Africa did not meet the threshold necessary for participation in such a prestigious consortium.

According to the source, the two countries within the BRICS group that had the largest economies were China and Brazil.

Two factors that may have contributed to South Africa’s economy being less recognized by Goldman Sachs include its relatively small population compared to other BRICS nations and its lower GDP. Additionally, the country's slow economic growth compared to its BRICS counterparts could further diminish its visibility in the radar of high-potential markets.

Whether one agrees with O’Neill's viewpoint that South Africa does not belong in the BRICS group may depend on various factors. While it could be argued that South Africa's economic performance has lagged behind its peers, the strategic value of its geographic location and resources should not be overlooked. Furthermore, South Africa serves as a gateway to African markets, and its inclusion in BRICS can enhance collaborative development within the continent.

South Africa’s membership in BRICS can be viewed as beneficial for Africa's development as it provides a platform for African engagement in global economic discussions. Through BRICS, South Africa can advocate for African interests and leverage partnerships to attract investment and development support. Furthermore, its inclusion in BRICS can catalyze trade relations and promote shared initiatives that address pressing issues faced by African nations, such as infrastructure development and poverty alleviation.

China was identified as Africa’s largest trading partner.

Africa has benefitted from trade relations with the BRICS group to a significant extent. For instance, trade between Africa and BRICS nations, particularly China, has seen substantial growth, fostering economic development. Collaborations in sectors such as infrastructure and mining have attracted investment that is vital for African economies. However, the extent of these benefits may vary across countries and sectors, necessitating a more comprehensive analysis of individual scenarios.

The BRICS group was expected to contribute to peace initiatives in Africa through diplomatic engagement and support for conflict resolution efforts in various regions. By fostering dialogue between African nations and providing resources for peacebuilding missions, BRICS can play a pivotal role in stabilizing conflict-affected areas. Additionally, BRICS can facilitate cooperation among member states to address root causes of conflict, such as economic inequality and social unrest.

South Africa's membership in the BRICS group has been regarded as controversial due to varying perceptions of its economic viability compared to other member nations. Critics argue that South Africa's slower economic growth and lower population size undermine its status within this influential coalition. Furthermore, some believe the inclusion of South Africa detracts from the prominence of faster-growing emerging economies. While its strategic significance to the African continent is acknowledged, the debate over its membership continues to challenge its legitimacy.