States

Question 1

Aim of a state referred to as:

Answer 1

‘National Interest’

Question 2

National Security: (China)

Answer 2

1. In order to promote its national security objective of territorial integrity, the PRC has been building artificial islands in South-China sea, referred as the “Great Wall of Sand”. The islands have been developed by the PRC in order to increase China’s regional role and reach over disputed island territories such as the Spratleys and Paracels.

Question 3

Phillpines:

Answer 3

Challenged China’s claims in international court (2013) and was victorious (2016). China called the ruling “ill-founded”

Question 4

Economic Prosperity:

Answer 4

1. In order to protect its economic interests, in 2014 China promoted the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific as a part of the APEC summit. Jinping stated “we need to accelerate the realization of the FTAAP and take regional economic integration forward.” The move was designed to not only remove trade barriers that hinder economic growth, but was established to emphasise China’s role in international trade, standing against the Trans-Pacific Partnership that excludes China.

Question 5

Role of the state 1:

Answer 5

The primary role of the state is to promote or protect its sovereignty. Without the maintenance of sovereignty, states would lose their power, influence and recognition in international society.

Question 6

Role of the state 2:

Answer 6

To meet the needs of its citizens. This role is more relevant to democratic societies that are bound by public opinion and the rule of law.

Question 7

Different kinds of power:

Answer 7

Military/Political Economic

Question 8

Power:

Answer 8

States all posses different levels of power. Such powers allow states to influence each other, as well as global actors such as the UN or non-state actors.

Question 9

Military Power:

Answer 9

US invasion of Iraq without UN consent

Question 10

Former UN Secretary of General Kofi Anan:

Answer 10

“I have indicated that [the invasion] was not in conformity with the UN charter. It was illegal.”

Question 11

Diplomatic/ Economic Power:

Answer 11

2014- China and Russia veto UNSC attempt to refer Assad to the ICC

Question 12

Why Russia and China blocked UNSC:

Answer 12

Russia investments in Syria valued around $19.4 billion (2009)

Question 13

Director of Amnesty International:

Answer 13

“The vetoes by Russia and China are a callous political move that betrays suffering people in Syria”