Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Contextual Background: Introduce UNESCO’s founding principles aimed at promoting global peace through education, culture, and science. Thesis Statement: State that the U.S. withdrawal and accusations of anti-Israel bias have put UNESCO in a precarious position, exacerbating its financial ...
Model Answer Introduction The ongoing trade wars, particularly between major economies like the US and China, have exposed vulnerabilities within the World Trade Organization (WTO). Established in 1995, the WTO aims to facilitate and liberalize international trade. However, its current structure reqRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The ongoing trade wars, particularly between major economies like the US and China, have exposed vulnerabilities within the World Trade Organization (WTO). Established in 1995, the WTO aims to facilitate and liberalize international trade. However, its current structure requires significant reforms to ensure its survival and relevance, particularly concerning the interests of India.
Current Issues in the WTO
Loss of Utility
The WTO has increasingly lost its utility for key players like the US and the EU, prompting calls for reforms to realign its functions with their priorities.
Inadequate Response to China
The organization has struggled to effectively address China’s tariff manipulation. This inadequacy has led the US and the EU to explore alternative trade frameworks outside WTO regulations.
Neglected Obligations
Major economies often neglect their WTO commitments, such as reducing agricultural subsidies, while pushing for new rules favoring their own sectors, particularly in e-commerce.
Reforms Needed
Fulfilling Agreed-upon Issues
India, alongside other member nations, emphasizes the necessity of adhering to existing commitments, especially in agriculture, before introducing new priorities.
Addressing Major Economies’ Concerns
Reforms should focus on addressing the concerns of the US and EU to restore their confidence in the WTO, encouraging their active participation.
Balancing Obligations
The WTO must balance old commitments with new areas like e-commerce, ensuring inclusivity and fairness for all member countries.
Strengthening Enforcement Mechanisms
Enhancing enforcement mechanisms is crucial to ensure compliance with WTO rules and address instances of non-compliance effectively.
Promoting Development and Equity
Reforms should prioritize the needs of developing countries, ensuring special and differential treatment to foster their participation and benefits from global trade.
Conclusion
As a significant member of the WTO, India has a vested interest in advocating for systemic reforms in key areas, including dispute resolution and trade facilitation, to ensure that the WTO remains functional and beneficial for all its members, particularly developing nations.
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Model Answer Introduction UNESCO, established in 1945, was founded on the belief that political and economic alliances alone cannot ensure global peace, especially in the aftermath of two world wars. However, the organization now faces significant challenges, particularly following the withdrawal ofRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
UNESCO, established in 1945, was founded on the belief that political and economic alliances alone cannot ensure global peace, especially in the aftermath of two world wars. However, the organization now faces significant challenges, particularly following the withdrawal of the United States, which has accused UNESCO of having an “anti-Israel bias.”
Body
The U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO in 2019 stemmed from accusations that the organization exhibited bias against Israel. This sentiment traces back to 2011 when UNESCO voted to admit Palestine as a full member state, prompting the U.S. to halt its annual contributions of approximately $80 million. Israel has consistently criticized UNESCO for resolutions regarding cultural sites in the West Bank and Jerusalem, arguing that these resolutions undermine the legitimacy of the Jewish state.
Critics of Israel contend that it leverages U.S. support to deflect legitimate criticism of its policies. The politicization of UNESCO’s activities is not a new phenomenon; the organization has been grappling with a financial crisis since 2011, exacerbated by the U.S. withdrawal. Without American funding, UNESCO has been compelled to cut programs, freeze hiring, and rely on voluntary contributions to fill budget gaps. For instance, its 2017 budget was approximately $326 million, nearly half of what it was in 2012.
Moreover, other major contributors, including Japan, Britain, and Brazil, have also delayed their funding, often citing objections to UNESCO’s policies as a reason. This financial strain has left UNESCO fighting for its survival, struggling to fulfill its mission of promoting education, culture, and science.
Conclusion
The preservation of shared human heritage requires collaborative efforts from all nations, free from political interference. UNESCO must refocus on its core mandate to foster mutual understanding and cooperation while seeking alternative funding sources to sustain its vital work in promoting peace and sustainability.
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