ANWSER
—
Question 1:
What do you understand by the concept of “National Interest”? Write short notes on Vital and General Interests.
Answer:
National Interest refers to the goals and objectives that a nation seeks to achieve in its relations with other countries to ensure its survival, security, and prosperity. It serves as the foundation for a country’s foreign policy.
– Vital Interests: These are core interests essential for a nation’s survival and sovereignty, such as territorial integrity, national security, and economic stability. Violation of these interests may lead to war or severe diplomatic measures.
– General Interests: These are non-critical but important goals that enhance a nation’s well-being, such as cultural exchange, trade relations, and international cooperation. They are pursued through diplomacy and soft power.
—
Question 2:
What are the most important factors that influence a country’s foreign policy?
Answer:
Key factors influencing a country’s foreign policy include:
1. Geopolitical Location: Proximity to allies or adversaries shapes policy priorities.
2. Economic Resources: Wealth and natural resources determine a nation’s influence and alliances.
3. Military Strength: Capability to defend or project power affects diplomatic leverage.
4. Historical Context: Past conflicts or alliances influence current relations.
5. Domestic Politics: Public opinion, leadership ideology, and interest groups play a role.
6. International Law/Norms: Commitments to treaties or global institutions (e.g., UN) guide actions.
—
Question 3:
Itemise and explain the three basic elements of power as discussed in your study.
Answer:
The three basic elements of power in international relations are:
1. Military Power: A nation’s armed forces, nuclear capability, and defense alliances (e.g., NATO) deter threats and assert dominance.
2. Economic Power: GDP, trade networks, and control over resources (e.g., oil) enable influence through sanctions or aid.
3. Soft Power: Cultural appeal, diplomacy, and ideological leadership (e.g., democracy promotion) attract others without coercion.
—
Question 4:
Explain why there are still series of international wars in the world.
Answer:
Persistent international wars result from:
1. Resource Scarcity: Competition over oil, water, or minerals (e.g., Sudan’s conflicts).
2. Territorial Disputes: Unresolved borders (e.g., Israel-Palestine).
3. Ideological Rivalries: Clashes between political systems (e.g., Cold War proxies).
4. Failed Diplomacy: Breakdown of negotiations or UN ineffectiveness (e.g., Syria).
5. Power Imbalances: Hegemonic ambitions (e.g., Russia-Ukraine war).
—
Question 5:
Outline and discuss the four sources of international law as reflected in the study of this course.
Answer:
The four sources are:
1. Treaties: Binding agreements between states (e.g., Geneva Conventions).
2. Customs: Long-standing practices accepted as law (e.g., diplomatic immunity).
3. General Principles: Common legal doctrines across nations (e.g., pacta sunt servanda).
4. Judicial Decisions/Scholarly Works: Precedents from courts (e.g., ICJ rulings) and expert writings.
—
Question 6:
“The United Nations has been handicapped in many international issues.” Discuss.
Answer:
The UN faces limitations due to:
1. Veto Power Abuse: Security Council members (e.g., US, Russia) block resolutions for self-interest.
2. Funding Shortages: Dependence on member contributions leads to budget crises.
3. Sovereignty Issues: Non-interference principles hinder action in internal conflicts (e.g., Rwanda genocide).
4. Bureaucracy: Slow decision-making delays crisis response.
—
Question 7:
Distinguish between the activities of Multinational Corporations from Nongovernmental Organisations in the development of the present international system.
Answer:
– Multinational Corporations (MNCs): Profit-driven entities (e.g., Shell, Apple) that shape economies through trade, investment, and lobbying, often prioritizing corporate interests over public welfare.
– NGOs: Mission-based groups (e.g., Amnesty International) advocate for human rights, environmental protection, and aid, operating independently of governments.
—
Question 8:
What do you understand by the phrase regional arrangement?
Answer:
Regional arrangements are cooperative frameworks among neighboring states to address shared challenges. Examples include:
– Economic Blocs: ECOWAS (West Africa) promotes trade.
– Security Alliances: ASEAN (Southeast Asia) resolves conflicts.
– Political Unions: EU integrates policies for collective benefits.
—