UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) — MCQs

All questions with answers and explanations

Read the full set here, or use the practice card above to test yourself one question at a time.

1. The UNFCCC was opened for signature at which event, and when did it enter into force?

   • Stockholm Conference, 1972
   • Rio Earth Summit, 1992; in force 21 March 1994 (correct answer)
   • Kyoto COP3, 1997
   • Johannesburg WSSD, 2002

   Explanation. The UNFCCC was opened for signature at the Rio Earth Summit in June 1992 and entered into force on 21 March 1994.

2. The UNFCCC's Article 2 objective is best described as:

   • A binding numerical target requiring a 50% emissions cut
   • Stabilising greenhouse gas concentrations at a level preventing dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system, without setting binding numbers itself (correct answer)
   • A ban on all fossil fuel use by 2000
   • A requirement that only developing countries reduce emissions

   Explanation. Article 2 sets a qualitative objective without binding numerical targets — those came later through Kyoto and Paris.

3. Which principle, found in UNFCCC Article 3, states that developed countries should take the lead in combating climate change?

   • The polluter pays principle
   • Common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities (CBDR-RC) (correct answer)
   • The public trust doctrine
   • Res ipsa loquitur

   Explanation. CBDR-RC recognises developed countries' greater historical contribution to emissions and greater capacity to act.

4. Which of these party categories under the UNFCCC has additional obligations to provide financial resources and technology transfer to developing countries?

   • Non-Annex I
   • Annex II (correct answer)
   • Observer states
   • Annex III

   Explanation. Annex II parties, the OECD members of Annex I, carry additional funding and technology-transfer obligations.

5. The Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement are best understood as:

   • Completely independent treaties unrelated to the UNFCCC
   • Instruments adopted under the UNFCCC's Conference of the Parties, remaining legally subordinate to its Article 2 objective and Article 3 principles (correct answer)
   • Amendments that replaced the UNFCCC entirely
   • Bilateral agreements between only two countries

   Explanation. Both Kyoto (COP3) and Paris (COP21) were adopted under the UNFCCC's own COP and remain consistent with its founding objective and principles.

6. Annex II of the UNFCCC consists of:

   • All developing countries
   • The OECD members of Annex I (correct answer)
   • Observer states
   • Only India and China

   Explanation. Annex II consists of the OECD members of Annex I. Under Article 4 they are to provide new and additional financial resources and technology transfer.