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Important International Institutions

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Home/International Relations/Important International Institutions/Page 2

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Prakher Singh
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Prakher SinghBegginer
Asked: July 17, 2024In:
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Consider India’s support for international criminal justice concepts and its contributions to the work of the International Criminal Court (ICC), especially in light of abuses of human rights and war crimes.

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  1. Agni Rao
    Agni Rao Begginer

    India has been a vocal supporter of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and has contributed to its work in various ways, despite not being a signatory to the Rome Statute. India's contributions can be evaluated in the following areas: **Financial contributions:** 1. **Voluntary contributions:** IRead more

    India has been a vocal supporter of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and has contributed to its work in various ways, despite not being a signatory to the Rome Statute. India’s contributions can be evaluated in the following areas:

    **Financial contributions:**

    1. **Voluntary contributions:** India has made voluntary contributions to the ICC’s Trust Fund for Victims, providing financial support for victims of crimes within the ICC’s jurisdiction.
    2. **Capacity-building programs:** India has supported capacity-building programs for ICC member states, including training sessions for judges, prosecutors, and investigators.

    **Support for ICC principles:**

    1. **International criminal justice:** India has consistently emphasized the importance of international criminal justice and the need for accountability for individuals responsible for serious crimes.
    2. **War crimes and human rights violations:** India has condemned human rights violations and war crimes committed by various actors, including governments and non-state actors.
    3. **Referral of cases:** India has referred several cases to the ICC, including the situations in Libya and Ukraine, demonstrating its willingness to hold perpetrators accountable.

    **Participation in ICC-related activities:**

    1. **Assembly of States Parties:** India attends the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute, where it engages in discussions on ICC matters and advocates for its values and priorities.
    2. **Working Groups:** India participates in ICC working groups, such as the Working Group on Children and Armed Conflict, to address specific issues related to international criminal justice.
    3. **Cooperation with ICC investigations:** India has provided information and cooperation to ICC investigations, including providing evidence and testimony.

    **Challenges and limitations:**

    1. **Non-signatory to the Rome Statute:** As a non-signatory to the Rome Statute, India does not have direct jurisdiction over crimes falling within the ICC’s jurisdiction.
    2. **Limited diplomatic support:** India’s diplomatic support for the ICC is not always consistent, as it has occasionally voted against resolutions critical of specific countries or situations.
    3. **National priorities:** India’s priorities may differ from those of the ICC, leading to potential tensions or conflicts between national interests and international obligations.

    **Key initiatives:**

    1. **Regional cooperation:** India has promoted regional cooperation on international criminal justice through initiatives like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
    2. **National legislation:** India has enacted domestic legislation related to international criminal justice, such as the Crimes in International Waters Act (2008), which punishes crimes committed on Indian-flagged vessels.

    In conclusion, India has made significant contributions to the work of the International Criminal Court, despite not being a signatory to the Rome Statute. While there are limitations and challenges, India’s participation in ICC-related activities, financial contributions, and support for international criminal justice principles demonstrate its commitment to promoting accountability for serious crimes and upholding human rights.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 28, 2024In:
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Examine the international Court of Justice’s jurisdiction critically. (125 Words) [UPPSC 2018]

uppsc: important international institutions
  1. Zara Mukherjee
    Zara Mukherjee Enthusiast

    Jurisdiction of International Court of Justice (ICJ) **1. Contentious Jurisdiction: The ICJ settles disputes between sovereign states. This jurisdiction is voluntary, meaning states must consent to the Court's authority. For example, the 2019 verdict in the maritime boundary dispute between MauritiuRead more

    Jurisdiction of International Court of Justice (ICJ)

    **1. Contentious Jurisdiction: The ICJ settles disputes between sovereign states. This jurisdiction is voluntary, meaning states must consent to the Court’s authority. For example, the 2019 verdict in the maritime boundary dispute between Mauritius and the Maldives was based on mutual consent.

    **2. Advisory Jurisdiction: The ICJ provides advisory opinions on legal questions referred by the UN or its specialized agencies. The 2019 advisory opinion on the legality of the Kosovo declaration of independence was sought by the UN General Assembly.

    **3. Limitations:

    • No Enforcement Power: The ICJ lacks enforcement mechanisms, relying on states to comply with its rulings.
    • Jurisdiction Based on Consent: It cannot hear cases unless all parties agree to its jurisdiction, limiting its ability to address international disputes involving non-consenting states.

    Conclusion: While the ICJ plays a crucial role in resolving state disputes and offering legal advice, its effectiveness is constrained by its reliance on state consent and lack of enforcement authority.

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Avni Singh
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Avni Singh
Asked: July 16, 2024In:
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Analyze how the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have influenced India’s macroeconomic policies and the country’s economic growth. Talk about the critiques and changes that India and other developing nations have suggested for these institutions.

upsc: important international institutions
  1. vikas singh
    vikas singh Begginer

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank have had a significant impact on India's economic development, particularly in the post-liberalization era. Their influence has been multifaceted, and their role in shaping India's macroeconomic policies has been both positive and negative. PoRead more

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank have had a significant impact on India’s economic development, particularly in the post-liberalization era. Their influence has been multifaceted, and their role in shaping India’s macroeconomic policies has been both positive and negative.

    Positive impact:

    1. **Economic reforms:** The IMF and the World Bank have played a crucial role in promoting economic reforms in India. They have encouraged India to adopt policies such as liberalization, privatization, and globalization, which have contributed to rapid economic growth.
    2. **Macroeconomic stability:** The IMF has provided financial assistance to India during times of economic crisis, helping to maintain macroeconomic stability and preventing currency devaluations.
    3. **Technical assistance:** The World Bank has provided technical assistance to India in areas such as infrastructure development, human resource development, and public health.

    Negative impact:

    1. **Conditionality:** The IMF’s conditionality requirements have often been criticized for being overly restrictive and biased towards austerity measures, which can exacerbate income inequality and undermine social welfare programs.
    2. **Neo-liberal ideology:** The IMF and the World Bank have been accused of promoting a neo-liberal ideology that prioritizes market-driven growth over social welfare and labor rights.
    3. **Debt trap:** India’s heavy reliance on foreign debt to finance its economic development has created a debt trap, making it vulnerable to debt servicing and refinancing risks.

    Criticism from India:

    1. **Conditionality:** India has criticized the IMF’s conditionality requirements for being overly rigid and not taking into account the country’s specific circumstances.
    2. **Lack of policy space:** India has argued that the IMF’s conditionality requirements limit its policy space, making it difficult for the government to implement policies that benefit the poor and vulnerable.
    3. **Biased decision-making:** India has accused the IMF and the World Bank of having biased decision-making processes that favor Western countries and multinational corporations.

    Reforms proposed by India:

    1. **Increased policy space:** India has called for increased policy space to enable governments to implement policies that benefit their citizens.
    2. **More flexible conditionality:** India has advocated for more flexible conditionality requirements that take into account the country’s specific circumstances.
    3. **Alternative institutions:** India has proposed alternative institutions, such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the New Development Bank (NDB), which are seen as more responsive to the needs of developing countries.

    Reforms proposed by other developing countries:

    1. **More representative governance:** Developing countries have called for more representative governance structures within the IMF and the World Bank, with a greater voice for developing countries.
    2. **More flexible lending arrangements:** Developing countries have advocated for more flexible lending arrangements that allow for more sustainable debt management.
    3. **Alternative financial architectures:** Developing countries have proposed alternative financial architectures that prioritize debt forgiveness, debt cancellation, and more equitable burden sharing.

    In conclusion, while the IMF and the World Bank have played a significant role in shaping India’s macroeconomic policies, their impact has been controversial. India and other developing countries have criticized their conditionality requirements, lack of policy space, and biased decision-making processes. To address these concerns, reforms are needed to increase policy space, make conditionality more flexible, and promote more representative governance structures within these institutions.

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Prakher Singh
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Prakher SinghBegginer
Asked: July 17, 2024In:
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Examine India’s participation in the International Labor Organization (ILO) and its initiatives to advance social security, workplace safety, and labor rights in light of globalization and the evolving nature of the labor force.

upsc: important international institutions
  1. Varun Nayak
    Varun Nayak Begginer

    India’s engagement with the International Labour Organization (ILO) reflects its commitment to improving labor rights, workplace safety, and social security, particularly in the context of globalization and the evolving nature of work. Here’s an analysis of India’s involvement with the ILO and its eRead more

    India’s engagement with the International Labour Organization (ILO) reflects its commitment to improving labor rights, workplace safety, and social security, particularly in the context of globalization and the evolving nature of work. Here’s an analysis of India’s involvement with the ILO and its efforts in these areas:

    India’s Engagement with the ILO
    1. Membership and Participation:

    ILO Membership: India has been a member of the ILO since 1923, participating in the organization’s conventions, conferences, and committees. It engages with ILO’s policies and standards to align its national labor laws with international norms.
    Active Participation: India has been an active participant in ILO discussions and negotiations, contributing to global labor standards and adopting various ILO conventions and recommendations.
    2. Key Areas of Engagement:

    a. Adoption of ILO Conventions:

    Ratification: India has ratified several ILO conventions related to labor rights, workplace safety, and social security. These include conventions on forced labor, child labor, discrimination, and employment promotion.
    Implementation: The implementation of these conventions involves integrating ILO standards into national labor laws and practices, often requiring reforms and adjustments.
    b. Labor Rights and Workplace Safety:

    Promotion of Rights: India’s engagement with the ILO includes efforts to promote labor rights such as freedom of association, the right to collective bargaining, and the elimination of child labor and forced labor.
    Workplace Safety: The country has worked on improving workplace safety through legislation and regulations, aligning with ILO standards to ensure safe working conditions and reduce occupational hazards.
    c. Social Security:

    Social Protection Systems: India has made strides in enhancing social security systems, including health insurance, pension schemes, and unemployment benefits. Initiatives like the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and the Employees’ State Insurance Scheme (ESIS) reflect efforts to provide comprehensive social protection.
    ILO Collaboration: Collaboration with the ILO has supported the development and strengthening of social protection systems, including efforts to extend coverage to informal sector workers and vulnerable populations.
    Efforts to Address Globalization and the Changing Nature of Work
    1. Addressing Globalization:

    Labor Market Reforms: India has undertaken labor market reforms to adapt to globalization, including changes in labor laws to enhance flexibility, improve ease of doing business, and attract foreign investment.
    Protection of Workers’ Rights: Efforts have been made to balance the benefits of globalization with the protection of workers’ rights, addressing issues such as job security, fair wages, and working conditions.
    2. Adapting to the Changing Nature of Work:

    Informal Sector: A significant portion of India’s workforce is employed in the informal sector, which poses challenges for labor rights and social security. The ILO’s guidance has been instrumental in formulating policies to extend protections to informal workers and improve their working conditions.
    Gig Economy: The rise of the gig economy and temporary work arrangements requires new approaches to labor rights and social security. India has been exploring ways to address the needs of gig workers through policy reforms and regulatory frameworks.
    3. Key Initiatives and Programs:

    National Policy on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship: Aimed at enhancing skills and employment opportunities, this policy supports the development of a skilled workforce in response to global economic trends.
    Labour Codes Reform: The consolidation of various labor laws into four labor codes (on wages, social security, industrial relations, and occupational safety) represents an effort to simplify and modernize labor regulations while ensuring compliance with international standards.
    Challenges and Areas for Improvement
    1. Implementation and Compliance:

    Effective Implementation: Ensuring effective implementation of labor laws and ILO conventions remains a challenge. There is a need for robust enforcement mechanisms and monitoring systems to ensure compliance.
    Alignment with Global Standards: Continuous efforts are required to align national regulations with evolving ILO standards and address gaps in implementation.
    2. Inclusivity and Coverage:

    Informal Sector Coverage: Extending social security and labor rights protections to informal sector workers remains a significant challenge. Strategies to integrate informal workers into formal systems are essential.
    Addressing Inequality: Ensuring that labor rights and social security measures are inclusive and address the needs of marginalized and vulnerable groups is crucial.
    3. Adapting to Technological Changes:

    Technology and Work: The impact of technological advancements on labor markets, including automation and digital platforms, necessitates adaptive policies and innovative approaches to protect workers and ensure fair working conditions.
    Suggestions for Improvement
    1. Strengthening Legal Frameworks:

    Update and Harmonize Laws: Regularly update and harmonize labor laws to align with ILO standards and address emerging issues related to globalization and technological change.
    Enhance Enforcement: Improve enforcement mechanisms and capacity building for labor inspectors to ensure compliance with labor laws and safety regulations.
    2. Expanding Social Security Coverage:

    Universal Coverage: Work towards extending social security coverage to all workers, including those in the informal sector and gig economy, through inclusive policies and programs.
    Innovative Solutions: Explore innovative solutions for providing social protection, such as portable benefits and flexible insurance schemes for diverse working arrangements.
    3. Promoting Dialogue and Collaboration:

    Tripartite Dialogue: Foster dialogue and collaboration between government, employers, and workers’ organizations to address labor issues and develop effective policies.
    International Cooperation: Continue to engage with the ILO and other international bodies to share best practices, learn from global experiences, and address common challenges.
    Conclusion
    India’s engagement with the International Labour Organization (ILO) has played a crucial role in shaping its labor policies and addressing challenges related to labor rights, workplace safety, and social security. The country’s efforts to align with ILO standards and adapt to globalization and the changing nature of work reflect its commitment to improving labor conditions and promoting social protection.

    Opportunities for improvement include strengthening legal frameworks, expanding social security coverage, and promoting dialogue and collaboration. Challenges involve ensuring effective implementation, addressing gaps in coverage, and adapting to technological and economic changes. A proactive and inclusive approach will be essential for India to advance labor rights, workplace safety, and social security in line with international standards and the evolving global landscape.

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Darshan Suresh
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Darshan SureshBegginer
Asked: January 21, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Briefly introduce the United Nations (UN), its creation, and its original objectives. Mention the view that the UN is often considered a “frozen, 1945-invented mechanism” and highlight the need to evaluate this perspective in the current global context. Explain ...

upsc: important international institutions
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The United Nations (UN) was established in 1945 with the goal of promoting peace and cooperation among nations. However, over the years, its structure and mechanisms have been criticized for being outdated and not aligned with the contemporary geopolitical realities. The stRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The United Nations (UN) was established in 1945 with the goal of promoting peace and cooperation among nations. However, over the years, its structure and mechanisms have been criticized for being outdated and not aligned with the contemporary geopolitical realities. The statement that the UN is a “frozen, 1945-invented mechanism” reflects these concerns. In this context, we will examine the validity of this view by discussing various challenges faced by the UN in the current global scenario.

    Issues in the UN System

    1. Failure in Global Conflicts: The UN Security Council (UNSC) has often failed to address key global conflicts, primarily due to the veto power of its five permanent members (P-5). These countries often block resolutions that do not align with their interests, leading to inaction. A clear example is Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the subsequent invasion of Ukraine, where the UNSC could not take meaningful action due to Russia’s veto. Similarly, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has seen little intervention from the UN, despite widespread international calls for action.
    2. Resource Constraints: The UN’s ability to effectively address global issues is hampered by insufficient funding from member states. For example, UN peacekeeping missions, which play a vital role in conflict zones, often face budget shortages, undermining their ability to maintain stability in areas such as Africa and South Asia.
    3. Lack of Representation: The UNSC’s structure, unchanged since 1945, lacks adequate representation for emerging powers and regions, particularly countries in Latin America, Africa, and South Asia. This has led to calls for reform, as the current system does not reflect the global balance of power.

    The Need for Reform

    Despite the widespread recognition of these issues, the UN’s reform process is hindered by a complex procedure. Any changes to the UN Charter require the approval of two-thirds of member states and all permanent members of the UNSC, making meaningful reform difficult.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, the UN’s mechanisms, established in 1945, have indeed become outdated and fail to address modern global challenges effectively. For the UN to remain relevant, it must undergo significant reforms that reflect the current geopolitical landscape and better address the needs of the global community.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 27, 2024In:
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Does India have a strong desire to be a permanent member of the Security Council? (200 Words) [UPPSC 2019]

uppsc: international relations
  1. Bhavna Thakur
    Bhavna Thakur Learner

    India's Bid for Permanent Membership in the UN Security Council **1. Background and Context India has long advocated for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The UNSC, comprising five permanent members (P5) – the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and ChinaRead more

    India’s Bid for Permanent Membership in the UN Security Council

    **1. Background and Context

    India has long advocated for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The UNSC, comprising five permanent members (P5) – the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China – has faced criticism for its lack of representation of emerging global powers and developing nations.

    **2. India’s Case for Permanent Membership

    **a. Growing Global Influence

    India’s rising economic and strategic influence supports its claim. As the world’s fifth-largest economy and a major player in international diplomacy, India argues that it deserves a seat to better reflect the current global power dynamics. For instance, India’s significant contributions to UN peacekeeping missions and its role in global issues, such as climate change and counter-terrorism, strengthen its case.

    **b. Support from Other Nations

    India’s bid has received support from several countries and regional groups. For example, the G4 Nations – India, Germany, Brazil, and Japan – have collectively pushed for UNSC reform. Additionally, African Union countries have also endorsed India’s claim, aligning with their own aspirations for a more representative UNSC.

    **c. Geopolitical Contributions

    India’s strategic partnerships with major powers, such as the United States and Russia, further bolster its bid. India’s collaborations on security and economic fronts with countries like Japan and Australia highlight its integral role in global governance.

    **3. Challenges and Opposition

    Despite its strong case, India faces challenges:

    **a. Resistance from Existing P5 Members

    Current P5 members are cautious about expanding the Council due to concerns over balance of power and potential dilution of influence.

    **b. Opposition from Regional Rivals

    India’s bid is also opposed by regional rivals, such as Pakistan, which argues that India’s membership could lead to biased decision-making in the UNSC.

    **4. Recent Developments

    Recent discussions have seen varying levels of support and skepticism. The United Nations General Assembly has seen debates on UNSC reform, but a consensus on expanding permanent membership remains elusive.

    Conclusion

    India’s claim for a permanent UNSC seat is supported by its growing global influence, contributions to international peace and security, and backing from various nations. However, challenges from existing P5 members and regional rivals continue to impact the outcome of its bid.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 21, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define the WTO and its fundamental goals regarding global trade management and promotion. Introduce the Doha Round, emphasizing its significance in the context of globalization. 2. Background of the Doha Round Briefly describe the inception of the Doha Round ...

upsc: important international institutions
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer India's Perspective on the Doha Round Negotiations The Doha Round of negotiations, initiated in 2001, aimed to enhance global trade liberalization, particularly benefiting developing nations. However, India has taken a firm stance against the inclusion of new issues, such as labor and eRead more

    Model Answer

    India’s Perspective on the Doha Round Negotiations

    The Doha Round of negotiations, initiated in 2001, aimed to enhance global trade liberalization, particularly benefiting developing nations. However, India has taken a firm stance against the inclusion of new issues, such as labor and environmental standards, within the World Trade Organization (WTO) framework. This position is rooted in several key concerns.

    Significance of the Doha Round

    India emphasizes that the Nairobi declaration did not reaffirm the Doha Round’s mandate, which is crucial for fostering global trade liberalization. The country insists on resolving outstanding issues from the Doha Round, such as the Special Safeguard Mechanism and public stockholding for food security, before engaging in discussions on non-trade matters.

    Environmental and Labor Issues

    India argues that environmental and labor issues should be addressed by specialized global bodies like the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the International Labour Organization (ILO). Incorporating these issues into the WTO could lead to developed nations imposing their higher standards as non-tariff barriers, adversely affecting exports from developing countries.

    Impact on Developing Nations

    The inclusion of new issues in the WTO agenda poses significant challenges for developing nations. Wealthy countries could leverage these standards to impose restrictions, exacerbating economic disparities and hindering trade for poorer nations. India is particularly concerned that this could negatively impact its agricultural exports, which are vital for its economy.

    Resolution of Outstanding Issues

    India stresses the need to prioritize the resolution of existing issues before introducing new topics. This includes addressing the needs of poor farmers and ensuring food security through public stockholding measures.

    Criteria for Introducing New Issues

    India proposes that any new issues should meet two criteria: they must be relevant to trade, and there must be a consensus among all WTO members. This approach aims to ensure fair and inclusive decision-making within the WTO.

    Conclusion

    India’s efforts to prevent the introduction of new issues in the WTO reflect its commitment to safeguarding the interests of developing nations. By forming alliances with other developing countries and equipping trade law experts to represent their interests, India aims to promote fair and balanced trade policies that foster inclusive global economic growth.

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Vihaan Nair
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Vihaan NairLearner
Asked: July 17, 2024In:
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Analyze India’s involvement in the creation of the Contingent Reserve Arrangement and the New Development Bank as well as its interactions with the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) group. Examine this platform’s ability to challenge the global ...

upsc: important international institutions
  1. Shree Shree Singh
    Shree Shree Singh Begginer

    India's engagement with the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) grouping has been a significant aspect of its foreign policy, particularly in the post-2008 financial crisis era. BRICS was formed in 2006, and India has played a key role in shaping the grouping's agenda and institutRead more

    India’s engagement with the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) grouping has been a significant aspect of its foreign policy, particularly in the post-2008 financial crisis era. BRICS was formed in 2006, and India has played a key role in shaping the grouping’s agenda and institutional architecture.

    **Role in establishing the New Development Bank (NDB) and Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA):**

    1. **New Development Bank (NDB):** The NDB was established in 2014 as a multilateral development bank to finance infrastructure projects in BRICS countries. India has been a strong proponent of the NDB, which has approved over $10 billion in loans since its inception.
    2. **Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA):** The CRA is a reserve pool established in 2014 to provide financial assistance to member countries facing balance-of-payments crises. India has been a strong supporter of the CRA, which has received no drawings since its establishment.

    **Potential of BRICS:**

    1. **Alternative to Western-dominated financial architecture:** BRICS provides an alternative to the traditional Western-dominated financial architecture, allowing developing countries to have more control over their economic decision-making processes.
    2. **Increased financial cooperation:** BRICS can facilitate increased financial cooperation among member countries, promoting economic growth, stability, and integration.
    3. **Infrastructure development:** The NDB and other initiatives can help address infrastructure gaps in BRICS countries, fostering economic development and connectivity.
    4. **Influence on global governance:** As a rising power, India can use BRICS as a platform to shape global governance structures and promote its interests on issues like trade, climate change, and sustainable development.

    **Limitations of BRICS:**

    1. **Inconsistent commitment:** Some member countries have shown inconsistent commitment to BRICS initiatives, affecting the grouping’s cohesion and effectiveness.
    2. **Limited institutional capacity:** The NDB and CRA still face capacity-building challenges, which may impact their ability to respond effectively to financial crises.
    3. **Dependence on China:** China’s dominance in BRICS can create concerns about dependence on Chinese capital and influence.
    4. **Lack of transparency and accountability:** BRICS has faced criticism for lack of transparency and accountability in decision-making processes.

    **Challenges to challenging Western-dominated global financial architecture:**

    1. **Limited reform efforts:** Despite its potential, BRICS has made limited progress in challenging the existing global financial architecture.
    2. **Resistance from Western powers:** The West may resist changes to the existing system, making it challenging for BRICS to achieve significant reforms.
    3. **Divergent interests:** Member countries have different priorities and interests, making it difficult to achieve consensus on key issues.

    In conclusion, India’s engagement with BRICS has been significant, with notable achievements like the establishment of the NDB and CRA. While BRICS has potential as an alternative to Western-dominated financial architecture, it faces limitations due to inconsistent commitment, limited institutional capacity, dependence on China, and lack of transparency and accountability. To effectively challenge the Western-dominated global financial architecture, BRICS must address these challenges and work towards greater coordination and cooperation among member countries.

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Mamta Rani
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Mamta RaniLearner
Asked: June 18, 2024In:
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Since SAARC projects aren’t progressing as planned, BIMSTEC could be a dynamic substitute venue for South and South-East Asian regional organization. Talk about it.(250 words)

upsc: important international institutions
  1. Bhavesh singh
    Bhavesh singh Begginer

    Answer: In this dynamic world, India has focussed on a foreign policy, which incorporates a smooth conduct of regional relationships through multilateral partnerships enabling mutual cooperation and growth. South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), as an organisation, reflects the SoRead more

    Answer: In this dynamic world, India has focussed on a foreign policy, which incorporates a smooth conduct of regional relationships through multilateral partnerships enabling mutual cooperation and growth. South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), as an organisation, reflects the South Asian geographical identity of the countries. However, since its inception in 1985, various initiatives within the SAARC are not moving forward in the desired direction due to various reasons, including:

    • Pakistan’s non-cooperation: This has stalled some major initiatives under SAARC such as the SAARC-Motor Vehicles Agreement (MVA) and SAARC satellite project (replaced with BBIN-MVA and South Asia satellite respectively).
    • Asymmetry between India and other member countries: The other South Asian countries perceive India as the “big brother” and have been reluctant to implement various agreements under SAARC.
    • Lack of trade: Despite South Asia Free Trade Agreement coming into effect, intra-regional trade is around 5%, compared to the ASEAN region where intra-regional trade makes up around 25% as per the World Bank.
    • Shortage of resources: SAARC faces a shortage of resources as member countries have been reluctant to increase their contributions.
    • Security cooperation: SAARC does not have any arrangement for resolving disputes or mediating conflicts. There is also a lack of consensus on threat perceptions. For instance, while cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan is a major concern for India, Pakistan has failed to address these concerns.
    • Postponement/cancellation of annual summits: Annual SAARC summits have been postponed more than 10 times for political reasons, either bilateral or internal. In 2021, a meeting of foreign ministers from the SAARC countries was cancelled after most member states refused to entertain Pakistan’s request to allow the Taliban regime to represent Afghanistan in the meeting.

    In view of this, it is argued that Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) can be a better alternative forum for regional cooperation due to following reasons:

    • Geo-economic significance: The Bay of Bengal region covered by BIMSTEC is home to around 23% of the world population and its collective economy accounts for 4% of the global GDP.
    • Devoid of Pakistan: Negotiations at the SAARC are ineffective due to strains in India’s relations with Pakistan, thus, India is looking for a parallel platform which would be devoid of Pakistan.
    • Convergence of Neighbourhood First and Act East Policy: BIMSTEC acts as a bridge between South Asia and South-East Asia. It has also emerged as a platform to realize India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and Act East Policy.
    • Realising India’s blue economy potential: BIMSTEC is significant due to its regional integration and maritime security where India can also realize its ‘blue economy’ ambitions.
    • Countering China: With China’s aggressive stance in various areas, BIMSTEC helps India counter China multilaterally. This requires economic, political, security and maritime cooperation that is enabled through this organization.
    • Shared regional influence: It includes two influential regional powers i.e. Thailand and India, which reduces the fear of dominance by one power.

    SAARC and BIMSTEC focus on geographically overlapping regions. However, this does not make them equal alternatives. SAARC is a purely regional organisation, whereas BIMSTEC is an inter- regional organization. They complement each other in terms of functions and goals. BIMSTEC provides SAARC countries a unique opportunity to connect with ASEAN. Further, the success of BIMSTEC does not render SAARC redundant, it adds a new chapter in regional cooperation in South Asia.

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Darshan Suresh
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Darshan SureshBegginer
Asked: January 21, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction  Start by briefly explaining the role of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in regulating global trade. Mention that while the WTO has traditionally been crucial in fostering stability and predictability, emerging challenges have raised questions about its ...

upsc: important international institutions
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The World Trade Organization (WTO) plays a vital role in regulating international trade, aiming to foster stability and certainty. However, emerging global challenges have put the relevance of the WTO under scrutiny, revealing both its vulnerabilities and its importance inRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The World Trade Organization (WTO) plays a vital role in regulating international trade, aiming to foster stability and certainty. However, emerging global challenges have put the relevance of the WTO under scrutiny, revealing both its vulnerabilities and its importance in maintaining multilateral trade cooperation.

    Emerging Challenges

    1. Growing Protectionism The COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war have seen an uptick in protectionist measures, with countries bypassing WTO regulations to protect their economies. For instance, nations like the US, Germany, and France ramped up subsidies, trade barriers, and public procurement policies to shield their populations from economic shocks, undermining the WTO’s trade liberalization efforts.
    2. Decoupling as Strategic Policy Rising geopolitical tensions, particularly between the US and China, have led to efforts aimed at decoupling markets, which contradicts the WTO’s mission of promoting global economic integration. In 2022, the US imposed export restrictions on semiconductor chips and high-tech equipment to China, highlighting the tension between national security concerns and WTO objectives.
    3. Paralysis in Dispute Settlement System (DSS) The WTO’s Dispute Settlement System has faced significant setbacks due to the blockade of appointments to the Appellate Body. As of November 2020, the body has been unable to review appeals, hampering the WTO’s capacity to enforce its rulings.
    4. Rise of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) The proliferation of FTAs, which establish competing global value chains, has diluted the central role of the WTO in trade regulation. Different trade standards emerging from FTAs undermine the uniformity and necessity of WTO rules.
    5. Negotiation Deadlock Persistent deadlocks in negotiations, particularly on agricultural trade and services, reflect the difficulties in reconciling the interests of developed and developing nations. Key issues like the movement of skilled professionals and agricultural reforms remain unresolved.

    WTO’s Continued Relevance

    Despite these challenges, the WTO remains a cornerstone of global trade regulation for several reasons:

    1. Facilitating Dialogue The WTO provides an essential platform for countries to negotiate trade rules, ensuring that smaller nations and least developed countries have a voice in global trade discussions.
    2. Response to Crisis The WTO’s role in managing trade during crises, such as its approval of IP rights waivers for COVID-19 vaccines, demonstrates its capacity to facilitate cooperative responses to global emergencies.
    3. Guarding Against Economic Fragmentation Amidst geopolitical tensions and the rise of trade weaponization, the WTO is vital in preventing economic fragmentation, ensuring stability and predictability in global trade.

    Conclusion

    While the WTO faces significant challenges, including growing protectionism, geopolitical tensions, and stalled negotiations, its role in fostering dialogue, responding to crises, and preventing fragmentation remains indispensable. However, for the WTO to remain relevant, substantial reforms are necessary to address the distinctive challenges of the 21st century, ensuring it can effectively manage the complexities of modern global trade.

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