superpowers Flashcards
1
Q
define regional power
A
a state that has power within a geographic region like Europe, Africa etc.
2
Q
what is are examples of a regional power?
A
- Germany
- Brazil
3
Q
define emerging power
A
the emerging power (usually economic) of a country that used to be less economically developed
4
Q
what is an example of an emerging power?
A
- China
5
Q
define superpower
A
a state that has the ability to exert its influence and power through economic or military means at any time
6
Q
what is an example of a superpower country?
A
- USA
7
Q
define geopolitics
A
politics, especially international relations. as influenced by geographical factors
8
Q
what factors make a superpower?
A
- population
- language
- natural resources
- energy potential
- economic strength
- military strength
- size/land area
- cultural
9
Q
how does language influence a superpower?
A
- English is has the most speakers worldwide, which is spread by globalisation
- using English in the media and literature gives more power
10
Q
how can population influence a superpower?
A
- economic growth cant be sustained without a large workforce.
- HOWEVER Singapore has a small population but has significant economic growth
11
Q
how can size/land area influence a superpower?
A
- access to more natural resources
- extend influence over a larger number of neighbours
12
Q
how can military strength influence a superpower?
A
- larger military could mean more power
- HOWEVER the types of weapon owned will also influence this
13
Q
how can economic strength influence a superpower?
A
- larger economies have more power
- using the world’s most powerful currencies
- can control investment
- the G20 can influence and control the global economy to benefit themselves
14
Q
how can energy potential influence a superpower?
A
- having energy security and a diverse mix with renewables will be more powerful
15
Q
how can culture influence a superpower?
A
- religious leaders can influence politics
- capitalism can influence the world
16
Q
how can natural resources influence a superpower?
A
- having resources for economic development creates power
- HOWEVER exporting raw materials has a low value, TNCs control more resources than states
17
Q
what are the 4 main types of power in geopolitics?
A
- political
- military
- economic
- cultural
18
Q
what is political power?
A
being able to exert political influence and control on an international level
19
Q
what is an example of political power?
A
- the G8 countries
- USA sanctions on Russia over Syria and Ukraine conflicts
20
Q
what is military power?
A
being able to enforce your military strength whenever or wherever you see fit globally
21
Q
what is economic power?
A
being able to buy, control or enforce yourself by economic means internationally
22
Q
what is cultural power?
A
using your country’s unique culture and identity to attract or persuade people to buy into it from anywhere in the world
23
Q
what is an example of military power?
A
Russia invading Ukraine
24
Q
what is an example of economic power?
A
the space race between USA, China and Russia
25
what is an example of cultural power?
McDonalds restaurants are in 68 countries
26
what is hard power?
power through force or coercion and likely to involve military power or economic sanctions
27
what is soft power?
exerting influence through favour and persuasion and therefore likely to be based on cultural power
28
how has the USA's military made it a superpower?
- they have 800 military bases globally
- large military spending
29
how has the USA's economy made it a superpower?
- promotes free trade
- majority of TNCs have headquarters in the USA
- avoided economic ruin after WW2 despite being involves
30
how has the USA's culture made it a superpower?
- westernization
31
how has the USA's geography made it a superpower?
- large land area
- territories worldwide
- East and West coastlines provide connections to Europe and Asia
- natural resources and geothermal energy
32
how has the USA's institutions made it a superpower?
- Bretton Woods institutions
- NATO
- United Nations
- have had a large role in writing global laws and legislations, which can be made to suit themselves
33
describe the Heartland theory
the idea that whoever controlled Europe and Asia would control the world, as they were the largest land masses
34
what is the soft power index?
an index based on data from government, culture, global engagement, enterprise and digital, alongside international polling data
35
define propaganda
information, especially of a biased or misleading nature, used to promote a political cause or point of view
36
what is an example of hard power?
- trade embargo
- economic sanctions
37
what is an example of soft power?
the global dominance of the USA through TNCs and media
38
define colonial
the policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another county, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically
39
define imperialism
a policy extending a county's power and influence through colonization, use of military force or other means
40
define colonisation
the physical settling of people from a colonial power within their country
41
define spheres of influence
a large geographic area of the world in which another country has power to affect developments even though it has no formal authority
42
define unipolar
when one state exercises the most of the cultural, economic, and military power and influence over the rest
43
define bipolar
when two nations exercise the most of the cultural, economic, and military power and influence over the rest
44
define multipolar
when multiple countries exercise the most of the cultural, economic, and military power and influence over the rest
45
define evangelism
the spreading of Christianity through missionaries
46
How did the British Empire maintain their power?
- strong military
- evangelism
- slavery
- industrial revolution
- main transoceanic cables were controlled in London
- adding new colonies to prevent existing ones from rebelling
47
How did the British Empire use military control in India as a way of maintaining power?
British soldiers led Indian troops who then helped to build the British Empire. Rebellion by Indian citizens was met with Savage retaliation.
48
How did the British Empire use political control in India as a way of maintaining power?
They signed a treaty with the Indian Princes, allowing them to still control their land. However, Britain then stripped them of his power. But they let them keep their palace
49
How did the British Empire use cultural control in India as a way of maintaining power?
British culture took over in everyday practises. British architecture was used. 1897 Diamond Jubilee involved Indian soldiers.
50
Why did the British government have very little choice but to grant India for dependence after World War Two?
- Uprisings in India meant few people backed the British Empire making it harder for British to maintain power.
- Britain were financially unable to continue to rule and look after India as a result of World War Two.
- for Britain to get economic and social funding from their Allies the USA, after World War 2, they would need to stop their colonial rule
- Britain were losing control in India due to the 1945 government of India Act which meant Indian politicians were gaining power.
51
Why did the British Empire fall?
- After World War Two, Britain could no longer afford an empire.
- the Navy was no longer strong enough to protect all of it.
- There was a strong independence movement across the empire
- Treaty of Versailles promoted the right to rule yourself making it difficult for Britain to support this movement when they had colonies which couldn't rule themselves.
52
What evidence is there to display the continuing influence of the British Empire?
- Foreign artefacts with disputed ownership in the British Museum
- anger towards Britain as a result of large scale death from the Bengal famine
- The divide between India and Pakistan resulting in the separation of families and religion which had once coexisted together.
53
Define Alliance.
A union or association formed the mutual benefit, especially between countries or organisations.
54
Define indirect control.
Where one country will have some form of control (economic, social or legal) over another without directly dealing with them
55
When was the Cold War era
Between 1945 and 1990.
56
who were the main superpowers in the Cold War era.
- USA
- USSR (soviet union)
57
What are the features of capitalism?
- freedom of speech
- private ownership
- uneven share of wealth
- elections held, democracy
- separation between church and state
58
What are the features of communism?
- heavily restricted speech and media
- government/ state owned
- equal wealth
- tight control
59
What are some key comparisons between the USA and USSR?
The USA was a capitalist nation with NATO as allies whereas the USSR was communist with allies in Eastern Europe via the Warsaw pact.
60
What is the iron curtain?
The term given to the imaginary line drawn between communism in the east and the Democratic governments in the West. It was built to prevent any future invasion of Soviet Russia. with the aim to preserve cultures and ideology, preventing the free flow of people.
61
Where can the iron wall be seen?
It is marked by the Berlin Wall, highlighting the divide between East and West Germany.
62
What influences has the USA had in the bipolar world?
- The USA is a member of nato, which provides political and military power.
- economic influence through the Marshall Plan, which saw the USA providing large amounts of financial aid to Western European countries after World War Two. Alongside an inward investment into countries to promote economic development and prevent the spread of communism. The USA also held cultural influence through film and the media.
63
what influences has the USSR had in the bipolar world?
The USSR had nuclear weapons and military alliances through the Warsaw Pact, which provided a buffer between the West. The USSR had heavy political influence in Eastern European countries and invested heavily in its allies. The USSR used propaganda to portray the USA as immoral
64
Why did the Soviet Union lose the Cold War?
- The USSR had an economy that was about half the size of the USA
- The Cold War became a nuclear arms race.
- proxy war costs military advisers and aid heavily
- The USSR also invested heavily in weaponizing outer space.
65
How is power exercised in the post colonial era?
- Militarily through wars
- politically through the USAs attempt to prevent the spread of communism. - Economically, the IMF and World Bank were set up to provide aid to developing countries.
- Culturally, the Western culture continued to spread through the world via film, music and the adoption of the English language.
66
How is power exerted in the neocolonial era?
Through:
- strategic alliances
- aid
- FDI from TNC
- terms of trade
- global finance and debt
- structural adjustment policies.
67
How is China become a rising power?
China has a rapidly growing economy, which the USA is dependent on for manufactured goods This gives China more power and influence over the USA.
68
Define gross domestic product.
A monetary measure of all the services and goods produced in a country over one year.
69
Define commodity.
Any product that can be used bought, sold or traded, especially in a world market.
70
What are example of emerging superpower IGOs?
- BRICS
- MINT
- Next 11
- Maghreb countries
- African lions
- CIVETS
71
Who are the BRICS and why are they emerging superpowers?
The original members of the BRICS include Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, with new members continuing to join. They are an emerging superpower because they are predominant supplies of manufactured goods, services and raw materials with rapidly growing GDP.
72
Who are the MINT countries and why are they emerging superpowers?
They are Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey. They have youthful populations which support economic prosperity in the next 20 years.
73
What makes for BRICS nations potential rivals in a multi polar world?
- 30% of the world's land surface
- 45% of the global population
- 33% of global GDP
- rapid development and economic growth
- have their own economic systems, which support their economy and development
- high value of imports and exports
- regional powers
- attractive to investment
74
What political reasons are holding the BRIC nations back from being potential superpowers in a multipolar world?
- Russia and China have a communist political system
- corruption
- India has poor governance and vast inequalities.
75
What economic reasons are holding BRIC nations back from being potential superpowers in a multipolar world?
- GDP is smaller than NATO
- spend less money on defence compared to the USA
- They are an economic trade bloc rather than military, unlike NATO
- In Russia, there are economic sanctions, a shrinking population, and dependence on oil and gas exports.
76
What are the strengths and opportunities for Brazil?
- large diverse population
- high levels of migration and European and Asian cultural influence
- rapidly growing GDP
- opportunities to invest GDP in society.
77
What are the weaknesses in Brazil?
Brazil is too reliant on commodity exports.
78
What are the strengths and opportunities for Russia?
- high life expectancy
- largest gas exporter
- has a large nuclear weapons.
- a large population
- one year compulsory conscription.
79
What are the weaknesses and threats for Russia?
- ageing population
- high levels of corruption with rigged presidential votes and presidential federation.
- 2008 financial crash meant they lost large amounts of revenue
- very reliant on oil and gas exports
- had many sanctions from the USA and the UN.
80
What are the strengths and opportunities in India?
- relatively large population
- increase in nuclear weapons
- Democratic government,
- growing GDP with services making up the largest sector.
- Privatising companies increased GDP and jobs
- potential for boosting the economy as more people move out of poverty
- large economically active workforce attracts lots of investment and economic growth
- new female industry positions.
81
Whatever weaknesses and threats for India.
- slightly lower life expectancy
- limited military spending.
- lots of political parties, which makes national decision making very slow.
- Millions are still in poverty and are illiterate.
- Tensions with China and Pakistan over regions which could result in conflict.
- no conscription, which could lead to lacking man power.
82
What are the strengths and opportunities for China?
- large population with six mega cities
- ethnically diverse
- rapidly growing economy.
- positive multiplier effect and are beginning to reduce the impacts of the ageing population through the removal of the one child policy
- the largest distributor of world products.
83
What are the weaknesses and threats for China?
- ageing population
- currently trying to reclaim disputed land
- a communist government which have spending control and censorship.
84
Where is Rostows modernization theory?
A theory where countries must move through all five stages of development to become fully developed. This would be based on delivering capitalism so a modern institutional reform would be essential for development and progress.
85
What are the 5 stages in Rostow's modernization theory?
- The traditional society
- preconditions for take off
- take off
- drive to maturity
- high mass consumption.
86
What are some critiques to rostows modernisation theory?
It doesn't account for factors that may restrict economic development, such as physical barriers, conflict or colonialism. It also assumes that all countries will have the same path to development.
87
What is Frank's dependency model?
The idea that developing nations will remain dependent on wealthier nations. There is trade between resources and goods in the core, semi periphery, and periphery regions. The Times of trade are often unfavourable to developing countries resorting in poverty.
88
What are some critiques of Frank's Dependency model.
It has a narrow focus only on the economic barriers. Doesn't account for social, environmental or political influences that may restrict economic development.
89
What is the world systems theory?
It is a very that explains the development gap and capitalist wild systems. It shows how peripheral areas rely on core regions to exploit their own materials, which is largely as a result of colonialism.
90
what are some critiques of the world systems theory.
He only looks at capitalism as being a cause for underdevelopment. Core and periphery regions are vague. He also ignored the fact that China and India were once for two largest economies when making his decisions on what name different regions.
91
Who are the Bretton Woods institutions?
- World Bank
- International Monetary Fund
- World Trade organisation.
92
When were the Bretton Woods Institutions set up?
- after World War two in 1944
93
what are the aims of the Bretton Woods Institutions?
- provide economic stability
- World War 2 recovery by ensuring trade and providing regulations that would prevent future wars.
94
What is for WEF?
The World Economic Forum.
It is an IGO that brings together leaders from different backgrounds. They have panels and discussions which allow them to find innovative solutions and ideas to. global problems.
95
What is the IMF?
The International Monetary Fund.
It is an IGO that aimed to stabilise global economies through the creation of a fund for loans and to stabilise currency.
96
What are some negatives of the IMF
Individual voting rights are proportional to the money put into the fund. This means that the top 10 control 60% of the votes. There were also set conditions for countries that are borrowed lots from the fund, so they have to focus on repaying their debt instead of social development.
97
What is the World Bank?
An IGO, part of the Bretton Woods Institutions. It provides finance advice and research to developing nations to aid their economic advancement.
98
What is the WTO?
The World Trade organisation. It is an IGO that promotes fairy trade by removing tariffs to provide a level playing field. They regulate trade by setting the terms for tariffs and subsidies and democratic systems. However, some countries have more power than others and use it to their advantage.
99
What are mergers and acquisitions?
They are the consolidation of companieS. Mergers are where 2 companies become one, whilst acquisitions are where one company takes over another.
100
What are examples of mergers
In 2015 Heinz merged with Kraft to form the Heinz Craft Company. This became the third largest food and beverage company in the U. SA and the 5th globally.
101
What are examples of acquisitions?
- Google acquired Android in 2005 which allowed them to compete in a market which was widely occupied by Microsoft and Apple.
- Disney has acquired many entertainment brands, which had allowed domination through TV film, sports and retail.
- Facebook has also acquired many companies such as Instagram and Whatsapp, just allow domination through and in social media.
102
How have the main industries in the Forbes top 10 industry lists changed over time?
In 2017 the main industries were oil and gas, with the country of origin varying. Whereas in 2024 there were mostly finance and banking companies with some. being technology. the majority of these were owned by America and China.
103
What are patents?
A form of intellectual property that gives its own of illegal right to exclude others from making using or selling an invention for a limited period of time in exchange for publishing and enabling public disclosure of invention.
104
What are the benefits of patents?
- allow businesses and TNCs to continue making money and grow economically.
- protect the inventor's idea.
105
What are the negatives of patents?
They can be used by tncs to maximise profits. And within the pharmaceutical industry, they can make new treatments unaffordable for poorer countries.
106
How can the arts, food and media be important influences of soft power?
They use persuasive control to gain. global influence through broadcasting and using. and often using the English languages. Some media could have political statements and satire within them.
107
who have a key role in international decision making concerning people and the physical environment?
Global superpowers and emerging nations
108
Why are the USA considered the global police force?
They are able to intervene with other countries.
109
Why does the USA no longer want to be considered as for global police force?
They can no longer afford it due to the loss of money from vast military spending and the psychological impacts on soldiers from multiple deployments.
110
What is the idea of American exceptionalism?
The idea that Americans can do whatever they want. This was used in President Trump's campaign.
111
How can the idea of American exceptionalism be seen during trumps presidency?
Exiting the Trans Pacific Partnership and the Paris climate accord, alongside cutting funding for the World Health organisation. The America first policy has led to broken partnerships and tense relationships with EU and NATO.
112
How has the Biden administration differed to trumps approach?
The focus on diplomacy at the Centre for Employee. So Biden rejoined the Paris climate accords and held meetings with nato G7 and EU to hell reps open by Trump. That was still an idea of American first through protectionalism and withdrawing troops from Afghanistan.
113
What is protectionism?
An example would be American consumers only buying American products so that money stays there, protecting the economy.
114
What has nato's impact been globally?
They provide emergency response to natural disasters helped to defend allies and provide peacekeeping strategies. This has helped to improve. security and deescalate conflict preventing wars.
115
What is AUKUS?
An IGO consisting of Australia, the UK and USA.
116
How has AUKUS had a global impact?
They have a security agreement with. has strengthened the connexions between the free members this. has also allowed free indo pacific trade and allowed the development and advancement of military capabilities.
117
How has the UN had a global impact?
They have maintained international peace and security by providing aid and sustainable development and created international laws.
118
How has the IPCC had an impact globally?
They have provided policymakers with. regular scientific assessment on climate change its implications for future potential risks to find adaptation and mitigation options.
119
How has the EU had an impact globally?
They have promoted economic cooperation between European countries by liberalising world trade. They also provide humanitarian aid.
120
What is for USMCA?
An IGO consisting of the United States, Mexico and Canada.
121
How has the USMCA had an impact globally?
They have promoted high labour standards and workers rights, which has prevented the intimidation and coercion of workers. This has improved the trades between the three countries giving a fairer free market.
122
What are the trends in China's carbon dioxide emissions?
China have rapidly increasing emissions due to the rapid economic development leading to industrialisation. This means more money is being invested into polluting industries to meet energy demands leading to the disproportionate emissions. There is an uneven distribution of emissions due to the poverty in rural areas.
123
What are the trends in the USA's carbon dioxide emissions?
The USA have disproportionate emissions but these aren't growing as rapidly as China. There are high emissions per person due to the large proportion of middle class who have increased consumption.
124
what are the consequences of China and the USA's growing emissions?
- global warming
- more intense extreme weather events
- biodiversity loss
- fish stocks migrate
- mass migration of climate refugees
125
what actions have China taken to reduce their carbon emissions? (positives and negatives)
+ investing in renewables
such as HEP, wind and solar
+ limiting coal consumption
+ providing money to nations most vulnerable to climate change
- still heavily reliant on coal
- not reached peak emissions as still developing
- investing in coal power plants elsewhere
+/- carbon neutral by 2060
126
what actions have the USA taken to reduce their carbon emissions?
(positives and negatives)
+ investing in renewables
+ investing in electric vehicles
+ decarbonising transport industry
+ net zero by 2050
- Trump removed the USA from the Paris Climate agreement but Biden rejoined, showing instability as politics changes
127
what happened at COP29?
$300 billion will be paid by developed nations towards the climate crisis to help developing nations. This created tensions as it was less than the developing nations asked for, leading to walk outs by LIC representatives.
128
How has global middle classes changed over time?
Europe and North America have the smallest increases as they are already developed so the majority of the population is already there. The largest increases are in Africa and Asia as they are beginning to develop
129
what are the potential outcomes of increasing middle class in India and China?
- increased disposable income
- more environmental damage such as pollution, emissions and land degradation
- improved standard of living
- more competitive job market
130
what threat do the middles class have to the planet?
- increased mineral demand for technology has led to more global sea traffic, land degradation and exploitation
- large consumers of fossil fuels
- increased food demand requires more water and importing goods
131
why are there disputes over the arctic?
- natural resources available
- exclusive economic zones
- melting sea ice opens new trade routes
- militarized region
132
what countries are involved in disputes over the arctic?
- Norway
- Russia
- USA
- Canada
- Greenland (Denmark)
133
why could Russia be considered wrong for claiming the north pole?
The north pole should be unclaimed land as it doesn't lie within 200 nautical miles of any border.
134
How are IGO's cementing the status of the arctic as a wilderness?
- the UN has policies and sustainable resource use of arctic marine environment
- arctic council groups promote cooperation between arctic states
- the Global Commons Alliance is accelerating systems for change
135
what is TRIPS?
Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights
- an agreement that protects the rights of brands and manufactured goods, it is created by the WTO
136
What are the issues with counterfeit products?
- small businesses are unable to compete
- can be dangerous
- sellers are difficult to track so cant be prosecuted
137
how does the production of counterfeit products lead to strained trade relations and TNC investment?
- counterfeit goods are mostly from Hong Kong and China
- Border control is strained as they intercept counterfeits
- TNCs lose money as people by the cheaper fake
138
what is China's 'made in China 2025' industrial policy?
A plan to develop China's manufacturing sector by producing higher value goods, becoming a leading industry and a leader in growth of technology.
139
How does China's 'made in China 2025' industrial policy threaten the USA?
- reduces trade for the USA as China begin to manufacture more high value goods.
- USA has to increase tariffs on China to protect their economy
140
what is an exclusive economic zone (EEZ)?
an area of sea in which a country has special rights to its use and exploration, it is within 200 nautical miles of a country's coastline.
141
Why are there disputes over the Spratly and Paracel islands?
- China is claiming the islands due to their nine dash line but they don't lie within their EEZ. They should belong to Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines but they don't have enough power and influence to claim this.
142
Why is the South and East China sea a sought after territory?
- rich in oil and gas reserves
- has 10% of worlds fisheries
- 30% of global trade passes through the area
143
Why is there tensions over South and East China sea territory?
China are building naval bases to widen their influence and power despite having little claim to the land. They are also patrolling the region.
144
what are the implications of the South China sea conflicts?
- coral reefs are damaged
- exploitation of resources
- prevents other countries using the trade route
- locals have been killed by Chinese boats and soldiers
145
why is there an open conflict between Eastern Europe and Russia?
- political tension between the USA and Soviet Union during the cold war with both trying to widen their sphere of influence.
- tensions between NATO and Russia as both aim to establish political control over Eastern Europe.
146
Why is Russia's invasion of Ukraine a proxy war?
It is a direct consequence of Ukraine seeking to join NATO.
147
How is NATO trying to stop Russia gaining power?
- economic and political sanctions
- giving military support to Ukraine
- limiting energy imported from Russia
148
Why can China's relationship with Africa be seen as a form of neo-colonialism?
- China are funding large infrastructure projects in Africa, with Chinese workers doing most of the work
- over half of China's foreign aid is given to Africa
- China is Africa's largest trade partner
149
what theory does Africa's relationship with China reflect?
Franks Dependency Theory
150
how has Africa benefitted from Chinese FDI?
- large infrastructure projects
- more jobs
- improved economy and healthcare
- more efficient trade allows for development
151
What is Africa exporting to China?
- natural resources
e.g. minerals, fuel, food
152
what is Africa importing from China?
- manufactured goods
e.g. machinery
153
How has China benefited from Chinese FDI in Africa?
- infrastructure projects have provided jobs for Chinese workers
- provides more efficient trade routes
- investing in social infrastructure creates a healthier more reliable workforce
154
What are examples of projects in Africa?
- construction of a bridge in Mozambique has improved trade routes
- a free clinic in Namibia has provided free medical care
- modern wrestling arena in Senegal
155
How have these projects benefited Africa?
- provided healthcare
- created jobs and houses
-preserved culture
156
How have these projects disadvantaged Africa?
- poor working conditions
- exploitation of workers and environment
- segregation of Chinese workers from wider society has created tensions
157
what is China's 'One Belt One Road' initiative?
a strategy that aims to connect Western Europe by road, and South East Asia and Africa by boat.
158
How will China benefit from the 'One Belt One Road' initiative?
- provided with efficient trade routes, boosting economy
- military control in Djibouti has increased influence
- 89% of work is for Chinese firms
- China have leased the port they built in Sri Lanka, providing them with more territorial control.
159
How will other countries benefit from the 'One Belt One Road' initiative?
- projects to improve infrastructure in Africa has allowed the region to meet more of the SDGs
- GDP has increased and jobs created which could reduce poverty
160
what are examples of infrastructure projects in the 'One Belt One Road' initiative?
- railways
- ports
- bridges
- oil pipelines
161
why is the 'One Belt One Road' initiative controversial?
- could lead to widespread presence of Chinese troops
- majority of financing returns to China so money is removed from the local economies
- local markets are undercut causing long term economic damage as countries are unable to payback loans
162
Why are there growing tensions in Asia?
There are varying attitudes towards the Kremlin. This means some countries choose to back Russia in fear of retaliation, whilst others want Western Allies.
163
What other causes of the fluctuating prices of oil?
- conflict and rising demand increase price.
- falling demand decreases price
- an imbalance between the supply and demand causes prices to fluctuate
164
What is opec?
IGO for oil producing nations, but aims to steady the price of oil so that these nations can maximise their profits.
165
Why do Hong Kong have tensions with China?
There are tensions due to the one country, 2 systems policy. This has allowed Hong Kong to keep its freedom of speech and autonomy. But in 2019 a bill would allow China to extradite criminals, leading to unfair trials. This led to protests, that were met with police brutality Eventually, the bill was removed.
166
Why are there tensions between Taiwan and China?
Taiwan refuses to join China under the "one country, two systems" policy. This means China are using military actions and pressure to gain control of Taiwan
167
why are there tensions between tibet and china?
China are supressing cultural and religious freedoms in Tibet, and monitoring religous activities alongside denying propper legal support to Tibetans
168
what are the tensions between Japan and China?
- Disputes over the East China Sea
- lack of transparency on the history of conflict between the 2 countries
169
what are the tensions between india and china?
- disputes over the himalayan borders
- majors clashes leaving many injured
- India has banned chinese apps over security fears
- accusations of firearm use near the border which would breach the 1986 agreement
170
what are the main problems the EU and USA face?
- economic problems due to long term structural weakness in the economies. This has resulted in an increased cost of living crisis.
- resource insecurity
- ageing population
- youth unemployment
171
what are some solutions to the economic problems the EU and USA face?
- encouraging FDI
- investing in education
- pro-natalist policies
- migration incentives from outside the EU
- policies to support working parents
- more diverse energy mix
172
How does the USA maintain global military power?
It has the highest military spending globally and has 800 military bases globally. This allows the USA to have a huge sphere of influence.
173
What are some benefits of maintaining global military power?
- nuclear weapons act as deterrent
- investing in intelligence services can prevent terrorist plots
- air response is faster than naval
174
What are some costs to maintaining global military power?
- improving technology is expensive
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How do superpowers have global influence?
through IGOs
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What type of projects does the World Bank usually fund?
Social projects that are too high cost for developing countries to raise sufficient funds for as they are not for economic purposes.
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How is the World Bank funded?
From wealthy nations and the interest from loans.
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Why are the aims of the WTO?
Reduce barriers and promote free trade between countries, whilst ensuring that trading nations keep and agree to international trade rules.
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What is the benefit of the WTO?
Lowering trade barriers and increasing trade among member countries has had a positive impact on international economic growth.
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What are the negatives of the WTO?
It has been seen to increase the wealth gap and hurt local workers and communities.
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What is the main aim of the IMF?
To allow the currencies to be exchanged freely and easily between 190 global member countries.
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How is the IMF funded?
By quota subscriptions as member states pay according to the size of their economy, with voting rights based on the quota size.
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Why has the IMF been criticised?
For giving loans with imposed conditions on how a country runs its economy, along with making payback a priority on the loan, which often forces financial concerns ahead of a social care.
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What are the aims of the WEF?
To bring businesses and governments together and encourage public and private sector cooperation.
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Where do meetings of the WEF take place each year?
Davos
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Who do WEF meetings occur between?
Politicians, businesses, economists, religious groups, media groups and many others.
187
Why is there no international treaty to protect the environment of the Arctic?
The area within the Arctic circle is mostly ocean.
188
How much oil and gas is the Arctic estimated to contain?
- 160 billion barrels of oil
- 30% of the worlds undiscovered gas
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How is climate change impacting the Arctic circle?
It is decreasing the size of the ice sheet, which has improved accessibility to make drilling for oil and gas easier, whilst also increasing trade routes.
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How is resource exploitation evident in the Arctic?
- Norway has granted licences for the exploration for oil and gas.
- Russia has built the first offshore oil platform
- Greenland now has two active mines and the potential for more.
- The USA has approved the Willow Project, which will allow for the drilling of oil in North Alaska.
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How are tensions evident in the Arctic.
- Military presence is increasing
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Who are the tensions between in the Arctic.
- Norway
- Canada
- Denmark
- USA
- Russia
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what Are intellectual property rights?
The rights people or companies have over their own creations. They fall into industrial property and copyright.
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Why is protection of new inventions important?
- Without it, companies wouldn't spend money on research and development.
- It would reduce trade as companies would not want to share new inventions with other countries.
195
In 2021 how much FDI had China invested in Africa?
US$ 4.99 billion
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What has driven the increase in investment in Africa by China?
China's increasing demand for resources.
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What are examples of large-scale investment projects in transport and infrastructure in Africa?
- Nairobi Expressway in Kenya.
- Doraleh multipurpose Port in Djibouti.
- Benguela railway in Angola.
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What are environmental impacts of China investing in Africa?
- deforestation
- increase in oil spills
- soil + water contamination
- increase in air + water pollution
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What are opportunities of China investing in Africa?
- increased trade for Afroca
- increase in jobs/incomes
- improved transport/ infrastructure
- increased GDP
200
What have been the challenges created by China when investing in Africa?
- Unequal investment as it is focused on resource rich nations.
- Profits are low as focus is on exporting raw materials.
- Imports of cheap Chinese products has undercut local African companies.
- A decline in China's economy would impact the African nations receiving investment.
201
Why is the rising economic importance of India and China clear?
- China is 2nd largest economy and India is 5th
- both are G20 members
- they account for 40% of global population
- increasing political + military influence
202
How are tensions evident between China and India?
- border clashes between 1960-1980s
- strong military presence on common border
- escalations in border conflicts
203
Why are tensions in the Middle East and ongoing challenge for superpowers and emerging powers?
The region is home to 80% of proven oil reserves.
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What complex relationships, alliances, and historical events have led to the tensions in the Middle East
- religious differences
- rise of extremist organisations
- contrasting cultural ideologies
- conflicts and civil wars
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How can tensions in the Middle East be divided?
- cultural
- political
- economic
- environmental
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What ongoing economic challenges to the USA and EU face?
- debt
- economic restructuring
- unemployment
- social costs
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Why are the EU and USA facing debt?
- 2007-2008 global debt crisis
- low interest rates prior to 2007 so many took out loans
- interest rates increased so people could no longer afford repayments leading banks to fall out of business. Some governments invested in some baks deepening the debts
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What has the uk's debt led to
- reduced spending on public services
- increased unemployment
- lower demand for goods/services
- political instability
210
What is economic restructuring?
- The global shift of manufacturing to emerging and developing countries.
- The shift in employment in developing countries to tertiary and quaternary sectors.
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What has economic restructuring led to?
- deindustrialisation
212
Why has the usa and EU experienced increased unemployment?
- deindustrialisation
- global financial crisis
213
What additional social costs do the US and EU face?
- ageing population
- decreasing working age popualtion
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How has the UK, France and other countries attempted to reduce social costs?
They have increased the state retirement age.
215
What percentage of the US's defence budget accounts for all government spending?
10%
216
Why have EU naval forces reduced?
In an attempt to reduce costs.
217
Why has much military focus been on air power rather than naval power?
Air power has a much faster response time.
218
Who is investing the most into space exploration?
the USA then China
219
Why are there questions about military spending and superpowers in emerging powers?
Military spending is increasing, but it could be argued that global influence is now focused on soft powers, rather than military. The money would be better spent on reducing poverty, and improving infrastructure and healthcare
220
What are examples of aid provided by IGOs?
- disaster response teams and aid pledges
- temporary housing
- medical teams
221
How is the concept of the global police been evident in the world?
- NATO military intervention in Libya in 2011
- USA led military intervention in Afghanistan to remove Taliban in 2001
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What do military alliances ensure?
mutual protection
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What impact have the USA's military alliances had?
- Allowed the USA to have a leading role in deciding military operations.
- Provided the USA with over 600 military bases.
- Widened sphere of influence
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What is the purpose of nato?
To safeguard the freedom and security of member nations
225
What is ANZUS?
Australia New Zealand United States security treaty.
226
Why is the focus of ANZUS?
Cooperation on military matters in the Pacific Ocean.
227
How do economic and political alliances promote free trade?
They remove trade barriers such as taxes, tariffs and quotas.
228
What is the benefit of the EU?
- Greater power in trade negotiations
- greater access to markets
- greater protection of EU businesses and industry
- Freedom of movement of people.
229
What is USMCA?
The United States, Mexico, Canada agreement.
230
What are 3 examples of economic alliances?
- EU
- USMCA
- ASEAN
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What does ASEAN aim to do?
- Accelerate economic growth, social progress and cultural development.
- Promote regional peace and stability.
- Promote collaboration between nations.
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What are examples of environmental alliances?
- IPCC
- UNFCCC
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what is the IPCC?
Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change
It was created to provide members with regular reports on: knowledge and understanding of climate change, impacts, future risks, and possible options for mitigation and adaptation.
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What is the UNFCCC?
United Nations Framework Convention on climate change.
It was established as an environmental treaty to tackle the impact of human activity on climate. It holds a conference of the parties (COP) each year.
235
What are some examples of IGOs part of the UN?
- UNICEF
- WTO
- WHO
- World Bank
- UNFCCC
- Human Rights Council
236
Which are the five permanent members of the UN security council
- China
- France
- Russia
- UK
- USA
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Why do the Western countries have an advantage over the UN Security Council?
They often out very Russia and China, who frequently vote together.
238
What is the UN Security Council responsible for?
Maintaining peace and preventing conflict through peacekeeping missions.
239
What was agreed as part of the 2015 Paris climate accord?
- Limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius and aim for 1.5
- to make money available to adapt to the impacts of global warming
- make national plans which set out how they will reduce emissions
- Review the progress every five years.
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What are the two main purposes of COP?
- To assess the effects of past measures that have been introduced to limit climate change.
- To reach agreement and set up plans for future waste to limit climate change.
241
Why are India and China suffering from increasing water scarcity?
- increasing population
- increasing industry/ agriculture demand
- pollution of freshwater
- uneven water supply
- increasing drought
242
Why does the country's energy requirements increase as it develops?
- More energy is used in factories and industry.
- Domestic demand increases as people have more technology.
243
How are minerals used?
- Fossil fuels are used to provide energy.
- Minerals are used in industries such as to make mobile phones or cars.
- To make construction materials such as bricks or concrete.
244
What environmental degradation has resulted from the increasing demand of resources?
- water pollution
- severe air pollution
- soil degradation
245
What percentage of China's groundwater is estimated to be unfit for human consumption?
80%
246
What percentage of the global population is estimated to experience unhealthy air quality?
90%
247
Why is it in central that China participates in any international agreement regarding the environment?
It is the largest emitter of greenhouse gases globally.
