International Relations MCQ Quiz in मल्याळम - Objective Question with Answer for International Relations - സൗജന്യ PDF ഡൗൺലോഡ് ചെയ്യുക

The correct answer is A - Iv, B - III, C - I, D - II
Explanation: In chronological order, Somalia experienced civil unrest in 1991, Iraq faced challenges in 1992, Sierra Leone encountered conflict in 2000, and Darfur, Sudan witnessed turmoil in 2004. Key Points(A) Iraq - (IV) 1992:

• The intervention in Iraq in 1991 was known as the Gulf War or Operation Desert Storm. The conflict arose when Iraq, under the leadership of Saddam Hussein, invaded Kuwait in August 1990, citing territorial and economic disputes. The international community strongly condemned this act of aggression, and the United Nations Security Council passed a series of resolutions demanding Iraq's withdrawal from Kuwait.
• As Iraq refused to comply with the UN resolutions, a coalition of countries, led by the United States and including nations such as the United Kingdom, France, Saudi Arabia, and others, initiated military operations to liberate Kuwait. The military campaign, known as Operation Desert Storm, commenced on January 17, 1991, with air strikes against Iraqi targets, followed by a ground assault in February.
• The coalition forces quickly overwhelmed the Iraqi military, and by the end of February 1991, Kuwait was liberated. The conflict had a significant impact on the region, altering geopolitical dynamics and reshaping alliances. The intervention achieved its immediate goal of reversing Iraq's occupation of Kuwait but did not lead to the ousting of Saddam Hussein from power.

(B) Darfur, Sudan - (III) 2004:

• The Darfur conflict in Sudan is a complex and protracted humanitarian crisis that gained international attention in the early 2000s. The conflict began in the early 2000s when rebel groups in the Darfur region, primarily composed of non-Arab ethnicities, took up arms against the Sudanese government. The government responded by supporting Arab militias, known as the Janjaweed, which targeted non-Arab ethnic groups in a brutal campaign marked by atrocities, mass displacement, and sexual violence.
• The international community, including the United Nations, became increasingly alarmed by the human rights abuses and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Darfur. The UN Security Council passed resolutions, and efforts were made to broker peace agreements between the warring parties. In 2004, the African Union (AU) deployed a peacekeeping mission to Darfur, known as the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS), to help quell the violence and protect civilians.
• The situation in Darfur remains complex, with ongoing peacekeeping efforts, diplomatic initiatives, and humanitarian aid aimed at addressing the root causes of the conflict and facilitating a lasting resolution.

(C) Somalia - (I) 1991:

• The intervention in Somalia in the early 1990s was prompted by a combination of humanitarian concerns and efforts to restore order in the country. Following the overthrow of the military regime of Siad Barre in 1991, Somalia descended into chaos, marked by factional fighting, warlordism, and a severe humanitarian crisis, including widespread famine.
• In response to the escalating humanitarian catastrophe, the United Nations Security Council authorized the creation of the United Nations Operation in Somalia (UNOSOM) in 1992. The mission aimed to provide humanitarian aid, restore stability, and facilitate political reconciliation. The United States led a multinational force as part of Operation Restore Hope, which worked alongside UNOSOM to deliver humanitarian assistance.
• However, the mission faced significant challenges, including resistance from local warlords and armed factions. The situation further deteriorated with the infamous "Black Hawk Down" incident in 1993, leading to a reassessment of international involvement. The UN eventually withdrew its forces, marking the end of a large-scale international intervention in Somalia.

(D) Sierra Leone - (II) 2000:

• The intervention in Sierra Leone involved the United Nations and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in response to a prolonged civil war that began in the early 1990s. The conflict was characterized by rebel groups, such as the Revolutionary United Front (RUF), engaging in widespread atrocities, including the use of child soldiers and amputations.
• International concern grew as reports of human rights abuses and the dire humanitarian situation emerged. In 1999, the UN Security Council authorized the establishment of the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) to help restore peace and stability.
• The intervention intensified around the early 2000s, with ECOWAS forces and UNAMSIL working to disarm rebel groups, support the government, and facilitate the peace process. The Lome Peace Accord, signed in 1999, contributed to a reduction in hostilities. However, significant challenges persisted, including the need to address the root causes of the conflict and promote long-term stability.
• By 2002, the situation had improved, and UNAMSIL played a crucial role in stabilizing Sierra Leone and supporting the post-conflict reconstruction process. The intervention marked a successful international effort to bring an end to the brutal civil war in Sierra Leone.

The correct answer is 'A, B, C, E, D'

Key Points

• Chronological order of the given events:
  • Hammurabi established the legal code (circa 1754 BC): This is one of the earliest and most complete written legal codes, proclaimed by the Babylonian king Hammurabi.
  • Model Parliament of Edward I is convened (1295 AD): This was an early form of the English Parliament that included commoners, setting a precedent for future parliamentary structures.
  • Treaty of Westphalia enforced notion of sovereignty (1648 AD): This treaty ended the Thirty Years' War in Europe and is considered the beginning of the modern state system, emphasizing the principle of state sovereignty.
  • New Zealand became the first country to grant women the right to vote (1893 AD): New Zealand's decision marked the first time in the world that women were granted the right to vote in parliamentary elections.
  • United Nations approval of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948 AD): This landmark document was adopted by the UN General Assembly and sets out fundamental human rights to be universally protected.

• Historical Importance:
  • Understanding the chronological order of these events helps in grasping the evolution of legal, political, and social systems over time.
  • Each event marks a significant milestone in the development of modern governance and human rights.

The correct answer is 'C, A, B, D, E'

Key Points

• Chronological Order of the Assassinations:
  • SWRD Bandaranaike (C): Solomon West Ridgeway Dias Bandaranaike, the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, was assassinated on September 26, 1959.
  • John F. Kennedy (A): The 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, was assassinated on November 22, 1963.
  • Zia-ur-Rahman (B): The President of Bangladesh, Ziaur Rahman, was assassinated on May 30, 1981.
  • Olof Palme (D): The Prime Minister of Sweden, Olof Palme, was assassinated on February 28, 1986.
  • Yitzhak Rabin (E): The Prime Minister of Israel, Yitzhak Rabin, was assassinated on November 4, 1995.

The correct answer is 'A, B, C, D, E'

Key Points

• Fidel Castro assumed power in Cuba:
  • Fidel Castro led the Cuban Revolution and assumed power in January 1959, marking a significant shift in Cuban history and U.S.-Cuba relations.
• John F. Kennedy became the 35th president of the United States of America:
  • John F. Kennedy was inaugurated as the 35th president of the USA on January 20, 1961.
• Pope John XXIII implored the Kremlin not to start a nuclear war:
  • During the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962, Pope John XXIII made a public appeal to the leaders of the Soviet Union and the United States to avoid nuclear conflict.
• An American U-2 was shot down over Cuba:
  • On October 27, 1962, during the Cuban Missile Crisis, an American U-2 spy plane was shot down over Cuba, escalating tensions.
• Soviet leader Khrushchev announced that he has agreed to remove the Soviet missiles from Cuba:
  • On October 28, 1962, Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev publicly announced that the USSR would remove its missiles from Cuba, effectively ending the Cuban Missile Crisis.

The correct answer is '(A), (B), (C) and (E) Only'

Key Points

• International Realism:
  • International Realism, also known as political realism, is a theoretical approach to international relations that emphasizes the competitive and conflictual side of international relations.
  • Realists view the international system as anarchic, meaning there is no overarching authority above states.
  • States are the primary actors in international politics and they operate in a system of self-help where survival and security are paramount.
• Key Tenets of International Realism:
  • Domestic politics is characterised by hierarchy and international politics by anarchy: Within states, there is a clear hierarchy of authority, but internationally, no such hierarchy exists, leading to an anarchic system.
  • Power is both means and end: Power is crucial both as a means to achieve national interest and as an end in itself to ensure a state's survival and influence.
  • Believes in relative gain rather than absolute gain: States are more concerned with how much power and advantage they have relative to other states rather than the absolute amount of power they possess.
  • Like all politics, international politics is the struggle for power: The struggle for power is a central theme in international relations, with states constantly seeking to maximize their power and security.

Additional Information

• Anarchy is what states make of it:
  • This statement is associated with Constructivism, not Realism. Constructivists argue that the nature of anarchy is not fixed but is shaped by states' interactions and interpretations.
  • It emphasizes the role of ideas, beliefs, and identities in shaping international relations, contrasting with the Realist focus on material power and interests.
• Comparison with other theories:
  • Liberalism: Unlike Realism, Liberalism focuses on the potential for cooperation and the role of international institutions in mitigating anarchy.
  • Constructivism: As mentioned, Constructivism emphasizes the social construction of international relations, whereas Realism is more about material power and interests.

BIMSTEC prioritizes environmental conservation and sustainable development, collaborating on initiatives to address climate change, natural disasters, and resource management issues in the region.

Key Points

• Environmental conservation and sustainable development:
  • BIMSTEC focuses on collaborative efforts to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development among its member states.
  • Initiatives include addressing climate change, managing natural disasters, and ensuring effective resource management, which are critical for the region’s stability and prosperity.

Additional Information

• Economic integration and trade relations (Incorrect Option):
  • While BIMSTEC aims to enhance economic and trade relations among its members, the establishment of a common currency and customs union is not specified as its primary objective. The focus is broader, encompassing multiple sectors beyond just economic integration.
• Transnational security challenges (Incorrect Option):
  • Addressing transnational security challenges, including terrorism and maritime piracy, is important for BIMSTEC. However, this is not the sole focus, and the statement overemphasizes military and security cooperation over other areas of collaboration.
• Cultural exchange and connectivity (Incorrect Option):
  • Promoting cultural exchange and connectivity is part of BIMSTEC’s objectives. However, it is not the primary focus as indicated in the given option, which overlooks the broader scope of BIMSTEC’s initiatives in environmental and sustainable development.

The correct answer is Realists contend that states act based on national interests and power considerations, while Liberals emphasize the importance of international cooperation and diplomacy.

Explanation: Realism and Liberalism are two major theoretical perspectives in the study of International Relations. Realists argue that states primarily act in their national interest, prioritizing power and security considerations. In contrast, Liberals believe in the potential for international cooperation, emphasizing diplomacy, international institutions, and shared values as means to achieve stability and peace. Option (c) captures the essence of this key distinction between Realism and Liberalism.

 Key PointsRealism and Liberalism are indeed two fundamental theoretical perspectives in International Relations (IR), each offering distinct views on how international affairs are conducted and how states interact with each other.

Realism

• Basic Premises: Realism is based on the principle that states are the primary actors in international politics and they operate in a global system that is essentially anarchic, as there is no overarching authority above states. Realists view international relations as a struggle for power among self-interested states.
• Human Nature: Many realist theories are grounded in a pessimistic view of human nature, suggesting that individuals are inherently power-seeking and competitive.
• State Behavior: According to realists, the primary goal of states is survival. To ensure this, states seek power and security. Power is viewed not just as military might but also as economic strength, diplomatic influence, and other forms of state capability.
• International System: The international system is seen as a zero-sum game, where gains for one state mean losses for another. This often leads to a security dilemma, where actions taken by a state to increase its security (like building up military) make other states feel less secure and compel them to respond in kind.
• Key Theorists: Prominent realist theorists include Thucydides, Niccolò Machiavelli, Thomas Hobbes, and, in the 20th century, Hans Morgenthau and Kenneth Waltz.

Liberalism

• Basic Premises: Liberalism, in contrast to realism, focuses on the role of individuals, non-state actors, and international institutions. It emphasizes that international cooperation is not only possible but also prevalent.
• Human Nature: Liberals have a more optimistic view of human nature, believing in the potential for cooperation and progress. They argue that rational actors can work together to maximize wealth and minimize conflict.
• State Behavior: Liberalism suggests that states are not just motivated by power and security but also by other factors like economic interdependence and international norms. States are seen as being capable of altruistic behavior and driven by their internal political structures, not just their position in the international system.
• International System: The international system is viewed as a community where various actors (states, international organizations, NGOs, MNCs) play significant roles. Cooperation is encouraged through institutions, international law, and a shared understanding of human rights and democratic values.
• Key Theorists: Key liberal theorists include Immanuel Kant, Woodrow Wilson, and contemporary theorists like Robert Keohane and Joseph Nye.

Differences and Interactions

• Approach to Power: Realism views power as an end in itself, while liberalism sees power as a means to achieve other ends like economic prosperity or global peace.
• Importance of International Institutions: Liberals put more emphasis on international institutions and norms as mechanisms to facilitate cooperation, whereas realists are skeptical of the effectiveness and motivations behind these institutions.
• Perception of Conflict: Realists tend to view conflict as an inevitable part of international relations, while liberals focus on the potential for diplomacy and negotiation to resolve disputes.

 Additional InformationBoth Realism and Liberalism offer valuable insights into the workings of international relations, and understanding both is crucial to comprehensively analyze global political dynamics.

The correct answer is Morgenthau

Explanation: Hans J. Morgenthau, a prominent figure in international relations, is credited with the quote "Statesmen think and act in terms of interest defined as power.”

 Key PointsThis quote is from Morgenthau's influential book "Politics Among Nations," which established him as one of the leading thinkers of the realist school in international relations. Born in Germany, Morgenthau taught and wrote extensively in the United States, dedicating much of his career to the study of international politics and foreign policy. His focus on power and national interest as the primary drivers of international relations was a critique of idealistic and normative viewpoints.

 Additional InformationThe other three figures listed are also associated with international relations:

• George F. Kennan: An American diplomat and historian, Kennan was a proponent of a policy of containment of Soviet expansion during the Cold War. He is known for writing the "Long Telegram" and the "X Article," both advocating this foreign policy approach.
• Harold Nicholson: A well-known British diplomat, politician, and author on diplomacy, Nicholson was considered a scholar of international relations, making several contributions to the understanding of modern diplomacy.
• Henry A. Kissinger: An American political scientist and diplomat who served as Secretary of State and National Security Advisor under U.S presidents Nixon and Ford. Kissinger is known for his leading role in U.S. foreign policy and his approach towards "realpolitik" and detente policy during the Cold War.

The correct answer is Emst B. Haas 

Explanation: Ernst B. Haas's article, "The Balance of Power: Prescription, Concept, or Propaganda?" published in World Politics in 1953, is a classic exploration of the concept of balance of power during the early stages of the Cold War. In this article, Haas delves into various dimensions through which scholars of his time interpreted and understood the balance of power. Let's explore each of these dimensions in detail:

Key Points

• Distribution of Power: Haas discusses how scholars perceived the balance of power concerning the distribution of power among states. The idea here is that stability and peace could be achieved when power is evenly distributed among various actors in the international system. This notion assumes that no single state or group of states should become overwhelmingly dominant.
• Equilibrium: The concept of equilibrium is related to the idea that a balance of power leads to stability in international relations. When states or blocs are in equilibrium, they are less likely to engage in aggressive actions against each other. This perspective suggests that a stable system is one where power is distributed in a way that prevents any single entity from becoming too powerful.
• Hegemony: Haas discusses how balance of power can be understood in terms of hegemony, where one dominant power can maintain order and stability. However, the challenge arises when the dominant power becomes too strong, potentially leading to an imbalance and instability in the international system.
• Stability and Peace: The balance of power is often seen as a mechanism to maintain stability and peace. When power is distributed in a balanced way, states are less likely to engage in aggressive actions, as the potential costs and risks outweigh the benefits.
• Instability and War: Conversely, Haas explores how an imbalance of power can lead to instability and conflict. When a single state or coalition becomes overly powerful, it may be tempted to pursue aggressive actions, leading to tensions and even war. This perspective highlights the potential dangers of an unbalanced distribution of power.
• Power Politics in General: Haas discusses the broader implications of balance of power in the context of power politics. The distribution of power is seen as a fundamental factor shaping international relations, influencing state behavior, and determining the dynamics of diplomacy and conflict.
• Universal Law of History: Some scholars, according to Haas, viewed the balance of power as a universal law of history. This perspective suggests that the concept is not only applicable to contemporary geopolitics but has been a recurring theme throughout history.
• System and Guide to Policymaking: Finally, Haas explores how the balance of power can serve as both a system and a guide to policymaking. It can be a descriptive tool for understanding the existing international system and a prescriptive guide for policymakers to maintain a stable and peaceful world order.

 Additional Information

• Haas's article provides a comprehensive examination of the multifaceted ways in which scholars in the early Cold War era conceptualized the balance of power, highlighting its relevance to understanding international relations and guiding foreign policy decisions.

The correct answer is Communism and capitalism.

Explanation: The Cold War, which lasted from the end of World War II in 1945 until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, was characterized by a profound ideological conflict between communism and capitalism. This period was marked not by direct military conflict between the two main powers, the United States (US) and the Soviet Union (USSR), but by a tense atmosphere of rivalry, competition, and indirect conflicts in various parts of the world.

Key Points

Communism: Communism, as practiced by the Soviet Union and its allies, was based on the principles of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, who advocated for a classless society where the means of production (factories, land, resources) would be owned communally, not by individuals or corporations. The state, in theory, would ensure equality and distribute resources according to need. In practice, however, communism in the Soviet Union was marked by a highly centralized government that controlled all aspects of the economy and society, suppressing political dissent and individual freedoms.

Capitalism: Capitalism, as championed by the United States and its allies, emphasizes private ownership of the means of production, market competition, and the pursuit of profit. In capitalist systems, the market is supposed to determine the allocation of resources and services through supply and demand, with limited government intervention. Capitalism is often associated with democracy, where citizens have the right to vote and enjoy a range of personal freedoms.

The Conflict: The ideological conflict between communism and capitalism during the Cold War manifested in various ways:

• Military Alliances: The US led the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a collective defense alliance of capitalist countries, while the Soviet Union formed the Warsaw Pact, a similar alliance of communist states.
• Arms Race: Both sides engaged in an arms race, notably developing and stockpiling nuclear weapons, leading to a state of "Mutually Assured Destruction" (MAD), where neither side could use these weapons without facing total destruction.
• Space Race: Competition extended to space exploration, symbolized by the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik in 1957 and the US landing on the moon in 1969.
• Proxy Wars: Instead of direct conflict, the superpowers engaged in indirect conflicts by supporting opposing sides in regional conflicts, such as the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and various insurgencies in Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
• Economic and Technological Competition: Both blocs sought to demonstrate the superiority of their economic systems through technological innovation and aid to third-world countries.
• Propaganda and Cultural Influence: Both sides used media and cultural exports to spread their ideologies and win global support.

 Additional Information

• The Cold War was a complex period of history, where the ideological battle between communism and capitalism shaped not only international relations but also the internal policies and the societal structures of countries around the world.
• The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked the end of the Cold War, with many seeing this event as the triumph of capitalism and liberal democracy over communism.