human geo case studies Flashcards
EQ4 What are the outcomes of geopolitical interventions
Democracy and HR – Vietnam
n February 1968, a tragic incident occurred in Ha My, Vietnam, during the Vietnam War, where 135 villagers fell victim to a massacre carried out by South Korean soldiers.
Subsequently, a memorial was erected to honor the victims,
but the actual details of the event were suppressed by Vietnamese authorities due to pressure from influential South Korean diplomats who held significant investments in the Vietnamese economy (hospitals).
The war had a devastating impact on Vietnam, and following the withdrawal of the US, the country faced an economic embargo and was denied aid,
resulting in the abandonment of its socialist aspirations and the adoption of a market-oriented economy.
EQ4 What are the outcomes of geopolitical interventions
Democracy and HR – China
Reforms in the late 1980s and early 1990s introduced local democracy measures primarily aimed at reducing unrest in rural areas, but reports suggest that the petition system was suppressed in 2006.
Economic liberalization without democratization since the turn of the century has brought increased wealth, supported by a young and educated workforce, as well as foreign investment.
However, restrictions on political freedom and civil liberties persist, and China ranks high in human rights infringements, indicating a need for further development in governance institutions.
EQ4 What are the outcomes of geopolitical interventions in terms of human development and human rights?
Afghanistan
While some positive developments have occurred, such as the establishment of an inclusive political system and improvements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, the country still faces challenges.
Widespread poverty, inequality, and limited access to basic services persist, particularly in rural areas. Human rights violations, including discrimination against women and minority groups, continue to occur, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict, resulting in civilian casualties, forced displacement, and restricted freedoms.
And due to lack of long term solutions when the Taliban came back into power there has only been violations
Eg
As the financial crisis deepens, more than 23 million people are facing severe hunger, with 8 in 10 eating less or borrowing food.
Compounding the challenge, the Afghan economy, which relies heavily on international aid, is in tatters due to sanctions and embargoes.
For a country that previously met 80 per cent of its budgetary requirements via international aid,
Afghanistan’s economy of US$20 billion is expected to shrink by US$4 billion or more if the international restrictions persist.
The Covid-19 pandemic has only made matters worse. Medical facilities in Afghanistan are on the brink of collapse
EQ4 What are the outcomes of geopolitical interventions in terms of human development and human rights?
Development aid –
Ebola
The 2014 outbreak in West Africa was the largest, affecting multiple countries and resulting in over 28,600 infections and 11,300 deaths.
NGOs like MSF provided immediate medical assistance, setting up Ebola management centers and delivering supplies.
The EU contributed significant aid, with nearly $2.25 billion allocated for short-term humanitarian aid, medical research, and development assistance.
Efforts are being made to learn from the outbreak, improve health systems in affected countries, and prevent future outbreaks through surveillance, testing, training, and community engagement.
EQ4 What are the outcomes of geopolitical interventions in terms of human development and human rights?
Development aid – Haiti,
However, the country is flooded with NGOs and aid funds, surpassing the national government budget threefold. While aid has its benefits, such as accomplishing tasks the government cannot afford
it has also led to negative consequences like job loss, dependency, and a distorted perception among locals.
Additionally, there are concerns about lack of consultation, disparity between aid workers and impoverished Haitians, and the disproportionate allocation of funds to foreign entities over local organizations.
(dependency on aid has been created amongst people and the government, for example NGOs provide about 70 per cent of Haitian healthcare and 85 per cent of schooling)
EQ4 What are the outcomes of geopolitical interventions in terms of human development and human rights?
Successful - Timor Leste
The referendum = pro-Indonesian militias caused widespread violence
United Nations, intervened
GDP Growth: Timor-Leste has achieved significant economic growth in recent years. The GDP growth rate reached 5.3% in 2019
Poverty Reduction: Between 2007 and 2014, the poverty rate decreased from 41.8% to 30.3%
Literacy Rate: According to the World Bank, the literacy rate for people aged 15 and above was 68.7% in 2017,
Political Stability: Timor-Leste has made significant strides in terms of political stability and the establishment of democratic governance. The country has held successful elections and witnessed peaceful transitions of power, indicating progress in political rights and freedom
EQ4 What are the outcomes of geopolitical interventions in terms of human development and human rights?
Successful - Cote D’Ivoire
cote d’lvoire
In 2011, a military intervention led by the United Nations . aim to protect civilians and restore democratic governance after the former president refused to step down after loosing the election.and chose broke out
The successful intervention helped restore stability, mitigating violence and promoting a peaceful environment conducive to human development.
Protection of Human Rights: Effective interventions prioritize the protection of human rights. In Cote D’Ivoire, the intervention aimed to prevent human rights abuses and ensure the safety and well-being of the population. By facilitating a peaceful resolution and supporting efforts to uphold human rights, interventions can contribute to improving the human rights situation in the country.
Promotion of Democratic Governance: Successful interventions often seek to establish or reinforce democratic governance structures. In Cote D’Ivoire, the intervention aimed to uphold democratic principles and institutions. By supporting free and fair elections, promoting political dialogue, and fostering democratic practices, interventions can contribute to strengthening democratic governance and protecting human rights.
Socio-economic Development: A successful intervention can also support socio-economic development in the country. By creating a stable environment, interventions can attract investment, promote economic growth, and improve living conditions for the population. This can lead to advancements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and overall human development.
https://www.globalpartnership.org/where-we-work/cote-divoire
What are the outcomes of geopolitical interventions in terms of human development and human rights?
Unsuccessful – Iraq 2003
The removal of Saddam Hussein’s regime resulted in power vacuums, sectarian tensions, and insurgencies, leading to widespread violence and conflict, causing significant damage to infrastructure and hampering social and economic development.
Reports documented cases of torture, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, and violations of civil liberties, despite the intervention’s initial goal of promoting human rights and democracy, Iraq witnessed a range of human rights abuses during and after the conflict.
Minority communities, such as the Yazidis and Christians, faced targeted persecution and displacement.
The country experienced a decline in living standards, with a significant increase in poverty rates and unemployment, Basic services such as healthcare, education, and access to clean water were severely disrupted, leaving the population struggling with inadequate infrastructure and limited access to essential resources.
EQ4 What are the outcomes of geopolitical interventions in terms of human development and human rights?
No intervention – Zimbabwe
note: 70% of higher chance of goverment intervention if an area has abundance resources
Economic Decline: Without significant external intervention, Zimbabwe has experienced a significant economic decline. The country faced hyperinflation, economic mismanagement, and land reform policies that negatively impacted agricultural productivity. As a result, the economy contracted, leading to high unemployment rates, poverty, and limited access to basic services such as healthcare and education.
Human Rights Concerns: Zimbabwe has faced various human rights concerns, including restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly, and political participation. Under the leadership of former President Robert Mugabe, there were reports of politically motivated violence, intimidation of opposition parties, and suppression of dissent. Media censorship and limitations on civil liberties were also prevalent.
Social and Development Challenges: The lack of external intervention contributed to social and development challenges in Zimbabwe. Limited investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education have hindered progress in human development. The healthcare system faced significant strains, resulting in reduced access to quality healthcare services. Education suffered from funding shortages, affecting educational outcomes and opportunities for the population.
EQ2 Why do human rights vary from place to place?
Governance and corruption
China and India human rights violations
india
Freedom of Expression and Press Freedom: India has faced criticism for restrictions on freedom of expression and press freedom. Journalists and activists have been targeted, harassed, and arrested for their work. In 2020, India ranked 142nd out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index.
Caste-Based Discrimination: India has a long-standing issue of caste-based discrimination, with the Dalit community (formerly known as “untouchables”) being particularly vulnerable. Dalits face social exclusion, limited access to education and employment opportunities, and incidents of caste-based violence.
Human Rights Defenders: Human rights defenders and activists in India face threats, harassment, and legal action for their work. The use of stringent laws, such as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, has been criticized for being misused to target activists and dissenting voices.
china
Treatment of Uighur Muslims: China has faced international scrutiny for its treatment of Uighur Muslims in the Xinjiang region. Reports indicate mass detentions, forced labor, cultural assimilation efforts, surveillance, and restrictions on religious freedom. The Chinese government has been accused of committing human rights abuses and ethnic discrimination against the Uighur population.
Crackdown on Freedom of Expression: China has implemented strict censorship and surveillance measures, limiting freedom of expression and press freedom. The “Great Firewall” blocks access to foreign websites and social media platforms, while online content is heavily monitored and regulated. Independent journalists, activists, and human rights defenders are often subjected to harassment, imprisonment, and censorship.
Suppression of Tibetans: The Chinese government’s policies in Tibet have been a subject of concern for many years. Tibetans face restrictions on religious freedom, cultural assimilation efforts, and limited political autonomy. There have been reports of human rights abuses, including arbitrary detentions, torture, and suppression of protests by Tibetans advocating for greater freedoms and autonomy.
EQ3 How are human rights used as arguments for political and military intervention?
Military aid- OECD to Syria
The total pre-war population of Syria was around 21 million. More than half this population is now displaced from their homes,
During the ongoing Syrian civil war, various countries have provided military aid to different factions involved in the conflict.
Initially, some countries supported rebel groups aiming to overthrow the Syrian government, providing them with weapons, training, and financial assistance.
As the conflict progressed, foreign involvement increased, with different countries backing different factions based on their strategic interests.
Major players involved in providing military aid to Syria include Russia, Iran, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United States, among others.
Human rights are often used as arguments for political and military intervention in the context of countries like Syria where widespread human rights abuses are occurring. Here are some ways in which human rights are invoked:
Moral and ethical justifications: Human rights violations, such as systemic repression, violence against civilians, and denial of basic freedoms, are seen as morally unacceptable. Interventions may be presented as necessary to protect innocent lives and uphold universal human rights principles.
Responsibility to Protect (R2P) doctrine: The R2P principle asserts that if a state is unable or unwilling to protect its own population from mass atrocities, the international community has a responsibility to intervene. Human rights abuses in Syria can be cited as grounds for invoking R2P and justifying military action.
Promotion of democracy and freedom: Human rights abuses are seen as hindering the establishment of democratic governance and the realization of fundamental freedoms. Intervention may be framed as a means to support the transition to a democratic system that respects human rights.
Prevention of humanitarian crises: Intervening to address human rights violations can be justified as a means to prevent or alleviate humanitarian crises, such as mass displacement, refugee flows, or famine. Protecting human rights is seen as essential for ensuring the well-being and safety of affected populations.
(The civil war in Syria has lasted for over ten years, with President Bashar al-Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, maintaining power despite condemnation for human rights abuses and non-compliance with chemical weapons conventions.
The true number of casualties in Syria is difficult to determine due to recording issues and limited access to information. However, as of March 2021, the UN estimated that 306,887 civilians had been killed since the start of the conflict.
The war has resulted in significant displacement, with more than half of Syria’s pre-war population being internally displaced or becoming refugees abroad. As of December 2021, there were around 6.9 million internally displaced people in Syria and 5.6 million registered Syrian refugees and asylum seekers globally.
The conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis, with 14.6 million Syrians in need of humanitarian assistance in 2022. Around 12 million people are estimated to be food insecure, and the country has experienced substantial economic disruption and a rise in extreme poverty.
The UK has provided significant official development assistance (ODA) to Syria, totaling £3.8 billion from 2011 to 2022. The UK has also conducted military activities, including airstrikes against ISIS and providing support to the US-led coalition.
The presence of foreign fighters, including those affiliated with ISIS, has been a concern. The UN estimated that more than 40,000 foreign fighters from 110 countries joined ISIS in Iraq and Syria, with some remaining in Syria or returning to their home countries.)
EQ3 How are human rights used as arguments for political and military intervention?
Military aid-British army training Nigerian personnel –Boko Haram.
1.7 mill displaced
decade long war
80 attacks by child bombers
260 mill dollars for the next 4 yrs for victims
british troops tech Nigerian skills likes like first aid
british interest are at fate need to win supports and home
The British Army has provided military aid to Nigeria in the form of training Nigerian personnel to counter the threat posed by the extremist group Boko Haram.
Reduction in Boko Haram attacks: The effectiveness of the military aid can be measured by assessing the extent to which it contributed to reducing Boko Haram’s activities, including their attacks on civilian populations. If the training and support provided by the British Army helped Nigerian forces weaken or diminish the capabilities of Boko Haram, it could be considered a success.
Improved security and stability: The success of military aid can also be evaluated by looking at the overall security and stability in the affected region. If the intervention contributed to a decrease in violence, increased government control, and improved safety for the civilian population, it can be seen as a positive outcome.
Enhanced capacity of Nigerian forces: Assessing the success of military aid involves considering the extent to which Nigerian personnel were able to acquire and apply the skills, knowledge, and resources provided by the British Army. If the training resulted in a more capable and professional Nigerian military force that was better equipped to address the threat of Boko Haram, it can be seen as a success.
Protection of human rights: One crucial aspect of success in military interventions is the extent to which human rights are protected and upheld during the operations. It is essential to evaluate whether the actions taken by the Nigerian forces, with the support of the British Army, were in line with international human rights standards. If efforts were made to minimize civilian casualties, avoid arbitrary detentions, and respect the rule of law, it can be considered a positive outcome in terms of human rights.
Trade embargoes
United Nations sanctions against North Korea: In response to North Korea’s nuclear weapons program, the United Nations Security Council imposed multiple trade embargoes on the country. These embargoes restrict the trade of various goods, including weapons, luxury goods, and certain natural resources.
United States sanctions on Iran: The United States has imposed trade embargoes on Iran as a result of concerns about its nuclear program and alleged support for terrorism. These embargoes target various sectors, including energy, finance, and trade, limiting Iran’s access to international markets.
European Union sanctions on Russia: Following Russia’s annexation of Crimea and involvement in the conflict in Ukraine, the European Union imposed trade embargoes on Russia. These sanctions restrict trade in specific sectors, such as arms, dual-use goods, and certain technologies.
United Nations arms embargo on Myanmar (Burma): In response to human rights violations and the military coup in Myanmar, the United Nations Security Council imposed an arms embargo on the country. This embargo prohibits the sale, supply, or transfer of weapons and related equipment to Myanmar.
United States embargo on Cuba: The United States has maintained a comprehensive trade embargo on Cuba since 1960. This embargo prohibits most trade and financial transactions between the two countries, with the aim of pressuring the Cuban government to implement democratic reforms.
EQ3 How are human rights used as arguments for political and military intervention?
Development aid given by NGOs eg christain aid in haiti
77% population live less than 2 dollars a day
tax system unfair/ prone to disasters
worked since 1980s
worked in the rural communities while most ngos concentrated on urban areas
reached 18,000 people through 14 million appeal fund
550 earthquake proof homes
train respond to disaters
EQ3 How are human rights used as arguments for political and military intervention?
Development aid given by IGOs (UN or World Bank)
EQ3 How are human rights used as arguments for political and military intervention?
Development aid given by ODA
Infrastructure Development: ODA can be used to fund the construction or improvement of essential infrastructure such as roads, bridges, ports, airports, energy facilities, and water and sanitation systems. These projects aim to enhance transportation networks, facilitate trade, and improve access to basic services.
Healthcare Programs: ODA can support healthcare initiatives in developing countries, including the construction and equipping of medical facilities, training of healthcare personnel, provision of medical supplies and equipment, and the implementation of vaccination and disease prevention campaigns. It helps to improve healthcare access and quality, combat infectious diseases, and strengthen healthcare systems.
Education Initiatives: ODA is often allocated to support education programs, including the construction and renovation of schools, provision of educational resources and materials, teacher training, and scholarships for students. It aims to increase access to quality education, promote literacy, and improve educational outcomes in developing countries.
Agriculture and Food Security: ODA plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural development and addressing food security challenges. It can be used to provide agricultural inputs, promote sustainable farming practices, enhance irrigation systems, support research and technology transfer, and improve market access for smallholder farmers. The goal is to increase agricultural productivity, ensure food availability, and reduce poverty in rural communities.
Poverty Reduction and Microfinance: ODA often targets poverty reduction through programs that provide financial assistance, microcredit, and business training to low-income individuals and communities. These initiatives aim to promote entrepreneurship, create employment opportunities, and empower vulnerable populations to improve their livelihoods.
Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability: ODA is increasingly directed towards addressing climate change and promoting environmental sustainability. It supports projects related to renewable energy, sustainable land management, forest conservation, biodiversity protection, and climate resilience. The goal is to mitigate the impacts of climate change, promote sustainable development practices, and protect ecosystems.
EQ3 How are human rights used as arguments for political and military intervention?
Military Action– last resort
direct - USA and UK Vs Iraq 2003
EQ3 How are human rights used as arguments for political and military intervention?
Military Action– last resort
indirect Guantanamo Bay
EQ3 How are human rights used as arguments for political and military intervention?
Military Action– last resort
indirect Sri Lanka
EQ3 How are human rights used as arguments for political and military intervention?
Military Action– last resort
indirect Colombia
Why do human rights vary from place to place?
ECHR – 47 signatory countries – controversial as some see it as erosion of national sovereignty.
83% of judgements lost. Russia, Turkey, Romania, Hungary and Ukraine are frequent violators.
EQ1 What is human development and why do levels vary from place to place?
Education and development
(UNESCO, Masaai (FGM),
conflict – N. Nigeria,
Child marriage in Bangladesh,
cultural reasons in Asia)
EQ1 What is human development and why do levels vary from place to place?
Varying development life expectancy developing: Algeria Vs Mali,
emerging: Brazil
developed: UK – North and South divide, Australia – City Vs Aboriginal
EQ1 What is human development and why do levels vary from place to place?
Role of government – socialist (Bhutan), capitalist (USA), democratic (UK) and totalitarian (N. Korea)
EQ2 Why do human rights vary from place to place?
Government approaches
(authoritarian and democratic) to HR
India, Indonesia, Singapore, Canada and China
EQ3 What spheres of influence are contested by superpowers and what are the implications of this?
Acquisition of physical resources (Artic Oil and Gas)
EQ3 What spheres of influence are contested by superpowers and what are the implications of this?
Contested territory and resources
(South and East China Seas;
Western Russia/Eastern Europe)
EQ3 What spheres of influence are contested by superpowers and what are the implications of this?
Acquisition of physical resources (Artic Oil and Gas)
EQ3 What spheres of influence are contested by superpowers and what are the implications of this?
Contested territory and resources (South and East China Seas; Western Russia/Eastern Europe)
EQ3 What spheres of influence are contested by superpowers and what are the implications of this?
Contested territory and resources (South and East China Seas; Western Russia/Eastern Europe)
EQ2 What are the impacts of superpowers on the global economy, political systems and the physical environment?
IGOs (WB, IMF, WTO, WEF)
EQ2 What are the impacts of superpowers on the global economy, political systems and the physical environment?
Alliances (NATO, ANZUS, EU, NAFTA, ASEAN, IPCC)
EQ2 What are the impacts of superpowers on the global economy, political systems and the physical environment?
The UN (The Security Council, International Court of Justice, Peace Keeping Missions, Climate Change Conferences)
