CSS International Relations 2018 paper(b)
No. 2. To what extent did the regime established in Russia by the Bolsheviks represent its revolutionary ideology for consumerism, political stability, law and order, and social progress? (20)
No. 3. Evaluate the strengths and liabilities of the “containment of world revolution policy” during the Cold War. (20)
No. 4. The manner in which a nation’s ideology dominates its foreign policy is constantly in confusion. Explore the relationship between capitalist democracy and the foreign policy of the United States of America. (20)
No. 5. An analysis of the anatomy of foreign policy is an essential prerequisite to an understanding of the dynamics of International Relations. Analyze the central theme of Pakistan’s foreign policy in the war against terrorism. (20)
No. 6. One of the most serious dilemmas of South-Asian politics is the contentious relations between Pakistan and India. What measures would you consider for normalization between the two neighbors? (20)
No. 7. Prepare a study in which you assess the possibility of settlement of the Kashmir conflict such as in the case of East Timor or Bosnian crisis. (20)
No. 8. The most compelling challenge facing Afghanistan today is, dealing with Afghan Taliban. What do you think of a political engagement and accommodation between the Afghan government and Taliban giving way to stability in the region? (20)
Summary of Questions:
No. 2. To what extent did the regime established in Russia by the Bolsheviks represent its revolutionary ideology for consumerism, political stability, law and order, and social progress?
The Bolshevik regime in Russia aimed to implement its revolutionary ideology by promoting social progress, political stability, and law and order. However, while it sought to transform society through collectivization and industrialization, consumerism was suppressed in favor of state-controlled production. Despite early promises of equality, the regime faced challenges like repression, economic inefficiency, and a lack of consumer goods, limiting the extent to which its ideals were fully realized.
No. 3. Evaluate the strengths and liabilities of the “containment of world revolution policy” during the Cold War.
The “containment of world revolution” policy during the Cold War was aimed at preventing the spread of communism. Its strengths included successful containment in Western Europe and parts of Asia, which limited Soviet influence. However, its liabilities included provoking conflicts (e.g., the Vietnam War), undermining political stability in some regions, and fostering a global arms race. This policy often led to authoritarian support in allied nations and sometimes escalated tensions unnecessarily.
No. 4. The manner in which a nation’s ideology dominates its foreign policy is constantly in confusion. Explore the relationship between capitalist democracy and the foreign policy of the United States of America.
The foreign policy of the United States has often been shaped by its capitalist democratic ideology, emphasizing individual freedom, free markets, and democratic governance. This ideology has driven the U.S. to promote democracy abroad, support market-oriented economies, and engage in interventions to prevent the spread of communism. However, contradictions arise when the U.S. supports authoritarian regimes for strategic or economic reasons, complicating the relationship between ideology and foreign policy.
No. 5. An analysis of the anatomy of foreign policy is an essential prerequisite to an understanding of the dynamics of International Relations. Analyze the central theme of Pakistan’s foreign policy in the war against terrorism.
Pakistan’s foreign policy in the war against terrorism has been heavily influenced by security concerns, particularly its relationship with the United States and neighboring Afghanistan. The central theme involves balancing national security with international pressure to combat extremism. While Pakistan has worked with the international community on counterterrorism efforts, it has also faced challenges related to domestic political instability and regional tensions, especially with India and Afghanistan.
No. 6. One of the most serious dilemmas of South-Asian politics is the contentious relations between Pakistan and India. What measures would you consider for normalization between the two neighbors?
To normalize relations between Pakistan and India, measures could include establishing confidence-building mechanisms, resuming dialogue on core issues like Kashmir, and promoting people-to-people exchanges. Both nations should focus on reducing military tensions, enhancing trade relations, and resolving disputes through diplomatic means. International mediation or support from neutral parties could also be beneficial in addressing long-standing issues.
No. 7. Prepare a study in which you assess the possibility of settlement of the Kashmir conflict such as in the case of East Timor or Bosnian crisis.
The Kashmir conflict, like the East Timor and Bosnian crises, presents challenges but also opportunities for settlement. A peaceful resolution would require addressing the political aspirations of the people of Kashmir, engaging both India and Pakistan in sustained dialogue, and possibly involving international mediation. However, the complexity of the territorial disputes, national pride, and religious dimensions make it a difficult task, though a negotiated solution remains a possibility through compromise, security guarantees, and political reforms.
No. 8. The most compelling challenge facing Afghanistan today is dealing with the Afghan Taliban. What do you think of a political engagement and accommodation between the Afghan government and Taliban giving way to stability in the region?
Political engagement and accommodation between the Afghan government and the Taliban could lead to stability in Afghanistan if both sides agree to a peace process that includes political, social, and economic reforms. A negotiated settlement could end decades of conflict and address issues like governance and security. However, the challenges of trust, differing ideologies, and the Taliban’s historical actions complicate this process, making the prospects of long-term peace uncertain but still achievable through diplomacy and compromise.