Unit 1: Interdependence

Question 1

define interdependence

Answer 1

when groups in global politics rely on each other, have shared interests or have an impact on each other

Question 2

in what areas are states becoming more interdependent?

Answer 2

• economically (trade, recession in one state affects the trade ability in another, recession from one state to another (global financial crisis 2008))
• politically (civil wars impact refugee numbers and instability in another)

(due to globalisation)

Question 3

IGOs benefit

Answer 3

provides member states with a number of benefits, like economic strength and more influence in global politics

Question 4

the UN

Answer 4

leading IGO
- 193 member states
- objectives range from peacekeeping to hr protection to economic development and climate change reduction

Question 5

economic IGOs

Answer 5

• purpose is to prevent poverty, manage international trade regulations and promote global economic development
• The World Bank
• the WTO

Question 6

security IGO

Answer 6

providing states with collective security - all member states offer one another military protection in the event of an attack

• NATO

Question 7

hybrid IGO

Answer 7

regional IGOs with a range of functions like economic matters (shared currency, free trade agreements), political cooperation, etc.

• EU
• African Union (AU)

Question 8

how is the effectiveness of global governance being challenged?

Answer 8

States increase the prioritisations of their own interests above that of global issues (i.e. UN security council members increasingly using their veto power=

Question 9

examples of treaites

Answer 9

1. Montreal Protocol:
   established in 1987 to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of substances responsible for ozone depletion, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons. It represents one of the most successful examples of global cooperation, as nearly all countries have ratified the agreement. The protocol also highlights the interplay of power, sovereignty, and interdependence in global governance by showing how collective action can address a pressing environmental challenge​​.
   - originally 46 signatories now all 198 UN member states signed
   - Every country in the world is now a party to the treaty, making it the first universally ratified treaty in UN history, Some countries have faced difficulties controlling illegal trade in banned substances.
2. Treaty of Lisbon:
   Amended the EU constitution. Created new powers for the European Parliament. Created a long term president of the European Council and a High Rep. for Foreign Affairs.
   - All EU member states w some choosing to hold a referendum (France, NL) as part of the ratification process
   - negotiations began in 2001, significant amendments were needed after voters in France and NL voted against the treaty in referendums

Question 10

strategic alliances

Answer 10

• cooperation more informal without the need for treaties or IGOs
• reliable and profitable allies needed for states to achieve goals and protect interests
• mutual gain: Chinas investment in Africa in exchange for deals on Africa’s natural resources
• powerful state with emerging power: US and China building economic ties w India and Brazil (rising economic powers)

Question 11

strategic alliance example

Answer 11

“Special Relationship” US and UK
- peaked after 9/11 and subsequent military campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq when relationships between Bush and Blair became closer, both states involved militarily in Iraq and Afghanistan