CHAPTER 1 CASE STUDIES + EXTRA CONTENT: POWER, SOVEREIGNITY AND INTERNATIONAL REALTIONS

Question 1

Antonio Gramsci’s Cultural Hegemony

Answer 1

1. Gramsci’s concept of ‘Cultural Hegemony’ delves into how a dominant social class can influence and establish its values, beliefs, and cultural norms over other classes.
2. Can be used by the government to sustain hegemony e.g. Colonial legacy with english as a language
3. Culture has power, and can be used as counter-Hegemony which is movements or ideologies that challenge or resist the values and norms of the dominant class. E.g. Arab Spring
4. The media plays a large role in this now, with dominant ideologies often being perpetuated by media houses that adhere to the interests of the ruling class, influencing public perception. Think about filter bubbles as well here.

Question 2

Steven Lukes’ Three-Dimensional Power

Answer 2

1. a comprehensive view of power, highlighting its multifaceted nature across observable decisions, control over agendas, and shaping perceptions.
2. First Dimension: Pertains to direct decision-making and control over key resources.
3. Second Dimension: Focuses on the power to set agendas, determining which issues get attention and which do not. E.g. UN security council and veto powers
4. Third Dimension: Addresses the more subtle means of influencing desires, beliefs, and perceptions. E.g. Media propaganda in North Korea

Question 3

Individual vs Collective Power

Answer 3

1. Individual Power: The clout wielded by a single entity. China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea, for example, demonstrates its individual might.
2. Collective Power: Exerted by groups in unison. The African Union’s peacekeeping efforts in conflict zones exemplify collective power in action.

Question 4

Sources of Sovereignty

Answer 4

1. Force: Acquiring sovereignty through hard power e.g. Through nuclear deterrence or historical precedence of using power
2. International Law: Being intertwined in international institutions and following international law e.g. UN ICJ
3. Recognition by other states: in modern global politics global trade is essential, which requires recognition. Recognition can conditional.
4. Consent of the governed: In a democracy, the concept of sovereignty is tightly wound with the the legitimacy of the leadership. Revocation of consent can occur, and protests can happen etc. Referendums are a way of gauging the consent of the governed, and to provide them say.

Question 4

Unilateral vs Multilateral Power

Answer 4

1. Unilateral Power: Actions based solely on one entity’s interests. The US’s initial refusal to join the Kyoto Protocol is an illustration
2. Multilateral Power: Collaborative actions based on shared interests. The World Health Organization’s coordinated response to health crises embodies multilateral efforts.

Question 5

Political Participation Legitimising state sovereignty

Answer 5

1. People can participate politically through voting, protesting, working with civil
   society engagement, public consultations and participatory budgeting
2. This builds trust, encourages civic responsibility, ensures responsive
   governance, allows for quick conflict resolution before escalation, and
   empowers minority groups

Question 5

Indigenous Rights

Answer 5

1. Indigenous communities often have ancestral claims to lands that national
   governments want to develop or exploit for resources. E.g. legal battles of
   territorial rights
2. Indigenous communities strive to preserve their traditions, languages, and
   ways of life against dominant national policies. E.g. battle of education
   curricula
3. This threatens the state’s sovereignty, but is also an ethical responsibility.
4. The Sami people’s struggle offers insights into indigenous rights versus state
   sovereignty. Across Norway, Sweden, and Finland, the Sami have sought
   greater autonomy, especially regarding reindeer herding and land use.
   They’ve achieved some successes, such as representation in national
   parliaments, but challenges persist, particularly around land rights and
   resource extraction.

Question 6

Amnesty International

Answer 6

1. They work in Human Rights Advocacy and Research. They are a monitoring
   mechanism of human rights.
2. Their work leads to awareness and possible legislation
3. They are criticised for being overly selective and too neutral
4. They are particuarly invovled in Myanmar’s Rohingya Crisis where they
   document evidence of ethnic cleansing and other human rights abuses. This
   Amplified global calls for sanctions against the Myanmar military.

Question 7

Human Rights Watch

Answer 7

1. They play an investigative role and propose policy recommendations to
   governments. They are a monitering mechanism of human rights.
2. Their work results in accountability and legal and policy reform
3. Human Rights Watch is criticized for its shady ways of investigation and data
   colleciton and it also is criticized for having a western bias.
4. An example of their work is the detailed report of the systematic discrimination of
   women in Saudi Arabia that prevented them from driving. Ultimately this led to global
   advocacy and reforms.

Question 7

International Red Cross

Answer 7

1. The international red cross offers humanitarian assistance and actively promotes
   human rights
2. They have a huge global presence(190 countries) and they have aided in disease
   control in particular world wide(CHolera and measles)
3. The Red cross is criticised for its operational decisions and how those are influenced
   by donor countries. Additionally they are criticised for a lack of transparency.
4. They were particularly active after the 2010 earthquake in haiti with their rapid
   deployment of emergency response units. They also established field hospitals and
   distributed vital supplies to thousands.

Question 8

Greenpeace

Answer 8

1. Greenpeace does environmental advocacy and some direct action through high
   profile protests
2. Greenpeace’s work has led to legislative influence and change and it iha pressured
   several companies into adopting eco friendly policies
3. Greenpeace is at at times criticised for its lack of scientific accuracy and sometimes
   emplying dramatic and unlawful methods
4. An example of the work of greenpeace is the Brent Spar Platform. There were
   Protests against Shell’s plans to sink an oil storage buoy in the North Atlantic. Led to
   Shell’s decision to dismantle it onshore, setting a precedent for decommissioning
   offshore installations.

Question 9

Economic Influence of MNCs

Answer 9

1. Scale and Reach: MNCs, with their expansive budgets, often exceed the GDP of
   smaller nations. This allows them unparalleled power to influence trade dynamics,
   investments, and economies at large.
2. Employment: Beyond just job creation, MNCs introduce new industries, skills, and
   technologies to host nations, fostering economic growth.
3. Taxation: Complex tax planning, spanning multiple countries, allows MNCs to
   maximise profits. This can sometimes reduce tax revenues for host nations,
   impacting public funding and services

Question 10

Political Influence of MNCs

Answer 10

1. Lobbying and Policy Shaping: Through lobbying, MNCs can influence
   legislative processes, shaping policies in ways that benefit their operations
   and bottom lines.
2. Partnerships: Collaborations between MNCs and local governments can
   influence infrastructural development, trade policies, and more.

Question 11

Cultural and Social Influence of MNCs

Answer 11

1. Consumer Culture: Global brands shape tastes, preferences, and consumer
   behaviour, fostering a globalised culture.
2. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): MNCs invest in community projects,
   influencing education, health, and social fabric of host countries. This, in turn,
   improves their corporate image and relations with local communities.

Question 12

Unilever

Answer 12

1. A giant in the FMCG sector, Unilever’s impact is profound.
2. Economic: As a top employer, its supply chain dynamics shape markets. It
   introduces products tailored for local markets, driving local economic
   activities.
3. Political: Advocates for sustainability at global forums, influencing
   environmental policies.
4. Social: Unilever’s health and sanitation campaigns, like promoting
   handwashing, have far-reaching societal impacts.

Question 13

Philips

Answer 13

1. A beacon of innovation in health technology and lighting.
2. Economic: Contributes to R&D sectors in many countries, spurring innovation
   and local technological growth.
3. Political: Through partnerships, Philips shapes public health policies and
   infrastructural development.
4. Social: Initiatives in maternal health and community care have lasting societal
   benefits.

Question 14

IKEA

Answer 14

1. Beyond being the world’s largest furniture retailer, IKEA impacts
   global trends.
2. Economic: Drives the timber market and impacts local craftsmanship with its
   supply chain requirements.
3. Political: Its sustainability pledges push for greener policies and practices in
   countries of operation.
4. Social: With campaigns promoting sustainable living, IKEA influences
   consumer habits and environmental consciousness.

Question 15

Lenovo

Answer 15

1. This tech behemoth’s strategies often reverberate through the global
   electronics market.
2. Economic: Its acquisitions and mergers reshape competitive landscapes and
   introduce new technological fronts.
3. Political: Lenovo’s navigation of trade barriers, tariffs, and policies impacts its
   global strategy and, by extension, the tech industry.
4. Social: Through products and services, Lenovo influences digital literacy and
   access.

Question 15

Tata

Answer 15

1. A conglomerate originating from India, Tata’s influence is diverse.
2. Economic: From steel to software, Tata impacts multiple industries,
   generating employment and fostering technology transfer.
3. Political: Tata’s engagements with governments influence policies,
   especially concerning industry regulations and sustainability.
4. Social: Philanthropy is core to Tata. Through Tata Trusts, they invest in
   education, health, and social upliftment projects.

Question 16

International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC)

Answer 16

1. A behemoth in the world of trade unions, the ITUC has significant clout.
2. Advocacy: It persistently champions the cause of workers, pushing for fair wages,
   safety standards, and decent working conditions globally.
3. Political Influence: By engaging with international institutions, ITUC ensures workers’
   interests are at the forefront during policy formations.
4. Social Impact: The ITUC raises global awareness on critical issues, from child labour
   to gender parity and rights of migrant workers. Their campaigns foster a culture of
   rights and equality in workplaces.

Question 16

Arab Spring Resistance Movement(Origins, Objectives, Outcomes and Long Term
Outcomes)

Answer 16

1. Origins: Commenced in late 2010 in Tunisia after the tragic self-immolation of
   Mohamed Bouazizi, a street vendor.The event tapped into underlying
   frustrations over high unemployment rates, rampant corruption, and
   oppressive political regimes.
2. Objectives: Aimed to dethrone dictatorial leaders and usher in democratic
   reforms and aspired for greater freedoms, rights, and socio-economic
   betterment.
3. Outcomes: Saw the toppling of governments in countries like Tunisia, Egypt,
   Libya, and Yemen. Sparked widespread uprisings, leading to both civil
   protests and protracted civil wars in several nations.
4. Longer term outcomes: some countries like Tunisia moved towards
   democracy, while others, like Syria, were plunged into devastating civil wars
   or repressive rule.

Question 17

Occupy Movement(Origins, Objectives,
Outcomes)

Answer 17

1. Origins: Initiated in 2011 in New York City’s Zuccotti Park. The movement was
   deeply influenced by the Arab Spring and the Spanish “Indignados”. The
   slogan “We are the 99%” became iconic, highlighting the chasm between the
   elite 1% and the rest.
2. Objectives: Address the glaring economic inequality and the undue influence
   of mega-corporations on politics. Promote a fairer distribution of wealth,
   putting the spotlight on the widening rich-poor gap. Advocate for more
   transparency in the financial sector and hold financial institutions accountable.
3. Outcomes and Legacy: Sparked a worldwide dialogue on income and wealth
   disparities. Inspired the establishment of Occupy groups across the globe.
   Although the physical encampments dissolved, the movement’s ethos
   influenced future political campaigns and policies.

Question 17

Avaaz(Origins, Objectives, Outcomes)

Answer 17

1. Origins: Established in 2007 by organisations Res Publica and MoveOn.org.
   Conceived as an online advocacy platform to bridge geographical divides.
2. Objectives To act as a rallying point for instant advocacy on global issues
   ranging from environmental crises to human rights violations. Democratise the
   decision-making process by giving people a voice in matters that concern the
   global community.
3. Outcomes and legacy: With over 65 million members spread across 194
   countries, it’s one of the largest online activist networks.
4. Has influenced policy decisions on various fronts, from curbing Amazon
   deforestation to advocating for refugees’ rights.

Question 18

FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of
Colombia)(Causes, Methods, Impacts, Peace
Process)

Answer 18

1. Causes: there were historical inequality and the Marxist-Leninist guerrilla group
   was formed to fight against the significant economic and political disparities in
   Colombia. Land reforms and land rights became a central issue as well.
2. Methods: Guerrilla warfare with specialising in hit-and-run tactics, FARC
   targeted Colombian military and police forces, often capturing towns and
   military bases temporarily. Kidnappings and ransoms were also used and
   Civilians, politicians, and foreign nationals were kidnapped, making it a
   lucrative source of funding. Also Narco trafficking with FARC controlling
   significant coca-growing regions, became involved in every drug trade aspect,
   from cultivation to distribution.
3. Impacts: Firstly there is internal displacement with seven million Colombians
   being displaced, making it one of the world’s most prolonged displacement
   crises. Secondly there was economic strain as FARC’s activities, especially
   kidnappings and drug trafficking, tarnished Colombia’s global image, affecting
   foreign investments.
4. Peace Process: A landmark 2016 peace deal was signed, though it faced
   opposition and implementation challenges.

Question 18

The impact of social and resistance movement on discourse and policy

Answer 18

1. Enhanced Political Awareness and Advocacy: movements amplified issues,
   transforming them into pivotal subjects of global political discussions.The
   global reach of news and social media ensured that leaders worldwide
   couldn’t ignore these grassroots demands.
2. Tangible Policy Reform: several governments introduced sweeping policy
   changes.For instance, post-Arab Spring, nations like Tunisia and Egypt
   underwent extensive constitutional and political reforms.
3. Alteration of Power Structures: movements disrupted established power
   dynamics, giving precedence to grassroots activism. The Occupy Movement,
   for example, confronted the unchecked might of Wall Street, paving the way
   for discussions on corporate ethics, responsibility, and regulatory frameworks.
4. Strengthening of Civil Societies Rule:movements underscored the importance
   of active citizen participation in shaping policy decisions. They fostered
   collaborations across diverse societal groups, encouraging cohesive action
   against shared adversities.

Question 19

Hezbollah (Party of God)(Causes, Methods
and Impacts)

Answer 19

1. Causes: Israeli Invasion of Lebanon: Formed in the early 1980s, Hezbollah
   arose as a direct resistance to Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanon. Shi’a
   Marginalisation: Representing the Shi’a community in Lebanon, which had
   been historically sidelined in a predominantly Christian and Sunni political
   landscape. Iranian Influence: Post the 1979 Iranian revolution, Hezbollah
   found a strong ally in Iran, receiving financial and military support.
2. Methods: Guerrilla Warfare: Engaged in extensive guerrilla warfare against
   the Israeli Defence Forces, leading to Israel’s eventual withdrawal in 2000.
   Political Participation: Transitioned from purely militant to political, gaining a
   considerable number of seats in the Lebanese Parliament. Social Services: To
   consolidate its grassroots support, it established a vast network of hospitals,
   schools, and infrastructural projects.
3. Impacts: Lebanese Politics: As a significant political actor, it’s embroiled in
   both domestic politics and regional geopolitics, especially against Israel.
   Regional Tensions: Its allegiance to Iran and Syria makes it a player in
   broader Middle Eastern politics. Socio-economic: Successfully improved living
   conditions for Shi’a communities, earning their loyalty

Question 19

Global Consequences of Violent Protest
Movements

Answer 19

1. Refugee Crisis: Movements, particularly FARC, led to refugee inflows into
   neighbouring countries.
2. Drug Trafficking: The global narcotics market, especially cocaine, was deeply
   influenced by FARC’s extensive involvement.
3. Terror Designations: With groups like Hezbollah being labelled as terrorist entities,
   international relations, especially with Western nations, became strained.

Question 19

Local Consequences of Violent Protest
Movements

Answer 19

1. Internal Displacement: All these movements have led to significant population
   displacements, affecting millions.
2. Economic Stagnation: Instability, security concerns, and the destruction of
   infrastructure hinder economic prospects and deter investments. Political
3. Polarisation: These entities have created deep political divides within their respective
   countries, influencing governance, policies, and public sentiment.

Question 20

US Democratic Party(Ideology, Policy Impacts, Global Influence)

Answer 20

1. Ideology: Progressivism: Advocacy for social reforms, wealth redistribution, and
   environmental sustainability. Social liberalism: Push for civil liberties, gender equality,
   and minority rights.
2. Policy Impacts: Healthcare: Efforts towards more inclusive healthcare, either through
   expanded coverage or proposals like “Medicare for All”. Environment: Support for
   green initiatives, sustainable energy, and adherence to international environmental
   treaties.
3. Global influence: Focus on collaborative approaches, fostering alliances, and
   supporting international organisations

Question 21

US Republican Party(Ideology, Policy Impacts, Global Influence

Answer 21

1. Ideology: Focus on Conservatism with limited government intervention, placing high
   regard on individual freedoms alongside traditionalism that holds a Strong emphasis
   on Judeo-Christian values, often opposing progressive social reforms.
2. Policy Impacts: Seek low taxes and tax cuts, especially for high income earners.
   Seek defence and security through investment in military budget and an assertive
   military strategy abroad. Conservative individuals are also in favour of deregulation,
   sometimes at the expense of the environment.
3. Global Influence: Generally supports bilateral agreements more than multilateral
   agreements. Additionally the foreign policy is generally “america first” often being
   sceptical of organisations like the UN.

Question 22

Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU)(Ideology, Policy Impacts,
Global Influence)

Answer 22

1. Ideology: Christian democracy: Guided by Christian social teachings,
   emphasising human dignity and social responsibility. Centre-right orientation:
   Balancing free-market capitalism with some degree of state intervention.
2. Policy Impacts: Social market economy: Combination of free-market practices
   with a robust welfare state. Integration: Historically, a driving force behind
   European unification and strengthening of the EU.
3. Global Influence: Social market economy: Combination of free-market
   practices with a robust welfare state. Integration: Historically, a driving force
   behind European unification and strengthening of the EU.

Question 23

Germany’s Social Democratic Party (SPD)(Ideology, Policy Impacts, Global
Influence)

Answer 23

1. Ideology: Social democracy: Prioritises social justice, wealth redistribution,
   and comprehensive welfare systems. Centre-left orientation: Favors a mix of
   state-run and private enterprises for a balanced economy.
2. Policy Impacts: Worker rights: Advocacy for strong labour laws, minimum
   wage standards, and employee protections. Sustainable policies: Focus on
   environmentally friendly technologies and green urban development.
3. Global Influence: Internationalism: Engagement in developmental aid, conflict
   resolution, and support for global cooperative institutions.

Question 23

How Non State Actors have reshaped IR

Answer 23

1. Diverse Voices: With NSAs, underrepresented groups can have a voice on
   the global stage.
2. Increased Complexity: The plethora of actors with varied interests makes
   global politics more intricate.
3. Potential Conflicts: NSAs might sometimes act in ways that states see as
   encroachments on their sovereignty.
4. Collaborative Opportunities: States can partner with NSAs to tackle global
   challenges more holistically

Question 23

WEF (World Economic Forum)(Purpose,
effectiveness, criticisms, influence)

Answer 23

1. Purpose: Established as an annual rendezvous in Davos, Switzerland, the
   WEF offers a platform for leaders across politics, business, and civil society to
   converge and discuss pressing global issues.
2. Effectiveness:Inclusivity: The WEF stands out for its multi-stakeholder
   approach, engaging leaders from diverse sectors such as government,
   business, academia, and civil society.
3. Criticisms: Elitism: The WEF often faces criticism for being an elite club with
   limited on-ground impact.
4. Influence: While not a decision-making body per se, the WEF plays a pivotal
   role in influencing global agendas, priorities, and shaping international
   dialogue.

Question 23

G20(Purpose, effectiveness, criticisms, influence)

Answer 23

1. Purpose: Born out of the ashes of the 1997 Asian financial crisis, the G20 was
   established in 1999, originally catering to Finance Ministers and Central Bank
   Governors. It saw a significant transformation in 2008 when it expanded its
   ambit to include Heads of States, a direct response to the global financial
   crisis. Its primary objective is to gather the world’s major economies, both
   developed and developing, to discuss, promote, and ensure international
   financial stability.
2. Effectiveness: Promotes dialogue: The inclusion of both major advanced and
   emerging economies fosters a broad-based and inclusive discussion. Prompt
   decision-making: Being an informal gathering, the G20 has shown the ability
   to make decisions rapidly compared to larger and more structured
   international bodies.
3. Criticisms: Exclusivity: Its claim to inclusivity stands contested as many
   countries remain unrepresented. Lack of enforcement: The G20 faces a
   significant challenge as it lacks a mechanism to enforce its decisions or
   recommendations.
4. Influence: Apart from providing a platform to discuss measures for global
   economic recovery and reforms, the G20 also addresses multifaceted issues,
   ranging from climate change to counter-terrorism measures.

Question 23

Effectiveness of Non State Actors in their operations

Answer 23

1. Effective aspects: They have focused agendas that allow for expertise and
   efficiency. Due to their smaller size they can rapidly mobilise. They also form a
   valuable bridge between conflicting groups. Finally they have good amounts
   of agenda setting power.
2. Ineffective aspects: They have resource limitations, credibility issues(What
   are their true motives? transparency?), other operational hurdles e.g. logistical
   challenges.

Question 24

The Paris Agreement

Answer 24

1. An example of global governance through it being a climate agenda
2. Objective: To keep global temperature rise well below 2 degrees Celsius,
   aiming for a more ambitious target of 1.5 degrees Celsius.
3. Nationally Determined Contributions: Countries set individual emission
   reduction goals, which are periodically reviewed and updated.
4. Green Climate Fund: A financial mechanism to assist developing countries in
   mitigation and adaptation efforts

Question 24

Advantages of Global Governance Mechanisms

Answer 24

1. Standardisation: By setting global standards, international interactions
   become more predictable and consistent.
2. Pooling Resources: Collective efforts can harness resources more effectively
   to address shared challenges.
3. Promotion of Peace: Mediation and dialogue mechanisms reduce the
   likelihood of conflicts.
4. Knowledge Sharing: Encourages the exchange of best practices and
   innovations

Question 24

Limitations of Global Governance Mechanisms

Answer 24

1. Enforceability: The absence of a centralised global enforcement mechanism
   weakens the effectiveness of many international agreements.
2. Inequitable Representation: Decision-making structures sometimes reflect
   historic power dynamics, rather than equitable representation.
3. Sovereignty Concerns: International regulations can be viewed as infringing
   on national sovereignty.
4. Fragmentation: Overlapping mandates of different bodies can sometimes lead
   to confusion and inefficiency.

Question 24

Examples of Economic Partnerships

Answer 24

1. European Union (EU): The EU’s Single Market represents an ambitious
   economic partnership, promoting the free movement of goods, capital,
   services, and people.
2. NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement): This agreement aimed to
   eliminate trade barriers between the US, Canada, and Mexico.

Question 25

Benefits of Cooperation in Global Politics

Answer 25

1. Shared Resources: States can leverage collective resources and expertise to
   address challenges more effectively.
2. Peace and Stability: Cooperative efforts in security and diplomacy can deter
   potential conflicts and foster an atmosphere of trust.
3. Economic Growth: Economic partnerships can lead to market expansions,
   investment booms, and increased prosperity.

Question 25

Challenges of Cooperation in Global Politics

Answer 25

1. Sovereignty Concerns: International cooperation might impinge upon a state’s
   sovereignty, leading to resistance.
2. Power Disparities: Dominant nations might exercise disproportionate
   influence, causing tensions.
3. Enforcement Difficulties: The success of cooperative agreements often hinges
   on robust enforcement mechanisms, which might be lacking.

Question 25

Civil Unrest

Answer 25

1. Is a type of conflict
2. Can come in the form of riots, protests, or insurections

Question 26

Factors contributing to conflicts

Answer 26

1. Political factors: regime changes, nationalism, power vacuums(lack of stable
   government)
2. Economic Factors: trade disputes, resource scarcity, economic disparities
3. Social factors: ethnic or religious tensions, historical grievances,
   misinformation

Question 27

Role of International community in conflict resolution

Answer 27

1. Mediation: neutral negotiators, track II diplomacy(Unofficial, informal
   interactions among private citizens or groups)
2. Sanctions: economic sanctions, travel sanctions, arms embargoes
3. Peace keeping missions: deployment of troops, monitoring ceasefires,
   disarmament
4. Diplomatic pressure back-channel diplomacy(Confidential communications to
   ease tensions. Role of Organisations in Conflict Resolution) and multilateral
   forums