Extension Degree Program (2017 Entry)

DEPARTM
Global Trend Assignment I
ENT OF Submitted to: Temesegen Doja

COMPUTE
Date of Submission: February 22, 2025
Prepared by: -

R SCIENCE
No. Name ID
1 Hiwot Tewhbo
2 Yared
3 Awoke Agegnew 0314/25
4 Getahun Adefris 0447/25
5 Batisa Bashu 0555/25
6

QUESTIONS 1
The terms “globalization,” “regionalism,” and “localization” represent different approaches to
economic, cultural, and political interactions:

Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness of economies, cultures, and societies across
the globe. It often involves the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people. Supporters
argue that it fosters economic growth, cultural exchange, and technological advancement, while critics
point to issues like inequality, cultural homogenization, and environmental degradation.

Regionalism involves the collaboration and integration of countries within a specific region. This
approach can lead to economic cooperation, shared governance, and cultural exchange on a regional
scale. It can help address local issues more effectively while still engaging with global markets.

Localization emphasizes the importance of local economies and cultures. It advocates for self-
sufficiency, sustainability, and community resilience. Supporters believe that prioritizing local
resources and businesses can lead to more equitable and sustainable development.

While there are pros and cons to each, depending on the context, a balanced approach that incorporates
elements of regionalism alongside globalization could be considered the most supportive stance, as it
allows for global interconnectedness while also considering the unique needs and characteristics of
different regions. Incorporating elements of both regionalism and globalization can create a more
adaptable and responsive framework that leverages the benefits of global integration while respecting
and enhancing local identities and needs. This approach seeks to mitigate the downsides of each
system while maximizing their advantages, promoting a more equitable and sustainable future.

QUESTIONS 2
Globalization has significantly influenced developing countries, including those in Africa and
specifically Ethiopia. Below is a discussion of its positive and negative impacts across various
dimensions.

1. Economy

Positive Impacts:

 Increased Trade Opportunities: Globalization has opened up international markets, allowing

countries like Ethiopia to export goods such as coffee, textiles, and agricultural products.
 Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Many developing countries have attracted FDI, which can
boost local economies, create jobs, and facilitate technology transfer.

Negative Impacts:

 Economic Dependency: Developing countries may become overly reliant on foreign

investments and markets, which can lead to economic instability if these markets fluctuate.
 Job Displacement: Local industries can struggle to compete with foreign companies, resulting
in job losses and undermining local economies.
 Exploitation of Resources: Global companies may exploit natural resources without adequate
environmental protections or benefits to local communities.

2. Politics

Positive Impacts:

 Democratization and Governance: Exposure to global norms and values can promote
democratic governance and human rights awareness.
 International Collaboration: Globalization fosters cooperation among nations, which can
lead to improved political stability and conflict resolution.

Negative Impacts:
  Sovereignty Issues: Increased influence of multinational corporations and foreign
governments can undermine national sovereignty and local governance.
 Political Instability: The rapid changes brought by globalization can lead to political unrest
and instability, especially if local populations feel excluded from the benefits.

3. Culture

Positive Impacts:

 Cultural Exchange: Globalization encourages the exchange of ideas, traditions, and practices,
enriching local cultures.
 Access to Information: Improved communication technologies facilitate access to diverse
cultural expressions and knowledge.

Negative Impacts:

 Cultural Homogenization: The dominance of Western culture can lead to the erosion of local
traditions and identities, resulting in a loss of cultural diversity.
 Consumerism: Globalization promotes a consumer culture that may conflict with traditional
values and lifestyles.

QUESTIONS 3
Regional integration theory seeks to explain the establishment and development of regional
international organizations. Key questions are why and under which conditions states decide to
transfer political authority to regional organizations; how regional organizations expand their tasks,
competencies, and members; and what impact they have on states and societies in their regions.

1. Neofunctionalism

Assumptions:

 Integration occurs in a gradual and incremental manner.

 Economic integration leads to political integration.
 Non-state actors (like businesses and interest groups) play a significant role in the process.
Core Propositions:

 Spillover Effect: Economic cooperation in one area creates pressures for further integration in
related areas.
 Regional organizations and institutions become central to managing integration.

Policy Prescriptions:

 Promote supranational institutions that can facilitate integration and manage conflicts.
 Foster cooperation in specific sectors (e.g., trade, security) to generate momentum for broader
integration.

2. Intergovernmentalism

Assumptions:

 States remain the primary actors in the integration process.

 National interests and inter-state bargaining are central to decision-making.

Core Propositions:

 Integration is driven by the preferences of member states rather than by supranational

institutions.
 States will cooperate only when it aligns with their national interests.

Policy Prescriptions:

 Focus on negotiations and agreements that respect national sovereignty.

 Encourage bilateral or multilateral agreements where states can maintain control over the
integration process.

3. Liberal Institutionalism
Assumptions:

 International institutions can facilitate cooperation among states.

 States are rational actors that seek to maximize their benefits from cooperation.

Core Propositions:

 Institutions provide a framework for cooperation by reducing uncertainty and increasing

transparency.
 Trade and economic interdependence can lead to stability and peace.

Policy Prescriptions:

 Strengthen regional institutions that promote cooperation and dialogue.

 Develop frameworks for conflict resolution and collective action.

QUESTIONS 4
The issues of terrorism, weapons proliferation, inequality, poverty, climate change, and cultural
conflicts are complex and multifaceted, affecting various regions around the world. Here’s a
breakdown of where these problems are particularly rampant, along with possible reasons and
attributions of blame:

1. Middle East and North Africa:

o Issues: Terrorism, weapons proliferation, cultural conflicts.
o Reasons: Political instability, historical conflicts, and extremist groups.
o Blame: Local governments, foreign powers, and non-state actors.
2. Sub-Saharan Africa:
o Issues: Poverty, inequality, terrorism, climate change.
o Reasons: Economic challenges, corruption, climate impact on agriculture.
o Blame: Colonial history and global economic systems.
3. South Asia (e.g., Afghanistan, Pakistan):
o Issues: Terrorism, poverty, cultural conflicts.
o Reasons: Socioeconomic disparities and governance issues.
 o Blame: Regional powers and historical grievances.
4. Latin America:
o Issues: Inequality, violence, poverty.
o Reasons: Economic inequality and political corruption.
o Blame: Historical exploitation and internal corruption.
5. Arctic and Coastal Regions:
o Issues: Climate change and warming.
o Reasons: Melting ice caps and rising sea levels affecting ecosystems.
o Blame: Global industrial practices.

QUESTIONS 5

Major Environmental problems are Global Warming, greenhouse effect, biodiversity loss,
desertification, depletion of Ozone layer. Contemporary global environmental challenges differ from
earlier ones due to:

1. Global Scale: Issues like climate change and biodiversity loss affect the entire planet, unlike
localized past challenges.
2. Technological Impact: Modern industrial practices contribute significantly to environmental
degradation.
3. Population Growth: Exponential population increase intensifies resource consumption and
waste.
4. Economic Interconnectivity: Global economies lead to increased exploitation of natural
resources.

QUESTIONS 6

Early development thinkers such as Kuznets, Lewis and others were interested in the question of
whether income inequality mattered for economic growth and development. More recent thinkers,
such as Seen and those expanding human development perspectives towards ‘human well-being’, have
increasingly broadened the discussion to whether and how inequality matters for broader
conceptualizations of development inherent in the lens of human development and ‘human well-
being’. The earlier group of thinkers tended to argue that inequality did not really matter. More recent
thinkers and literature, though, show that inequality does matter for growth, broader human
development and well-being from instrumental and intrinsic viewpoints.

Importance of Global Inequality and Poverty

1. Global Interconnectedness: Inequality and poverty in one region can lead to economic
instability and migration pressures that affect other countries.
2. Human Rights: They are fundamental human rights issues, necessitating a global commitment
to equity and justice.
3. Sustainable Development Goals: Addressing these issues is essential for achieving global
development objectives.

Systematic Relationship between Global Inequality and Poverty

1. Root Causes: Historical factors like colonialism contribute to persistent inequality and
poverty.
2. Distribution of Growth: Economic growth may not benefit all, leading to extreme poverty
alongside wealth.

Impact on Conflict, Cooperation, and Peace

1. Conflict and Instability: High inequality and poverty can fuel social unrest and violence.
2. Migration Pressures: Poverty drives migration, which can create tensions in host countries.
3. Global Cooperation: Collaborative efforts to address these issues foster peace and stability.

QUESTIONS 7

Factors Contributing to the Evolution of International Relations

1. Historical Events: Major conflicts (e.g., World Wars) and treaties (e.g., Treaty of Westphalia)
shaped the framework of modern international relations.
2. Colonialism and Decolonization: The rise and fall of empires created new nation-states and
altered power dynamics globally.
 3. Globalization: Increased economic, cultural, and political interdependence has reshaped
interactions among states.
4. Technological Advances: Innovations in communication and transportation have facilitated
faster and more complex interactions.
5. International Organizations: The establishment of entities like the United Nations has
fostered cooperation and dialogue among nations.
6. Ideological Conflicts: The Cold War and the clash of ideologies (e.g., capitalism vs.
communism) significantly influenced international relations.

Ethiopia and Its International Relations

 Beginning of International Relations: Ethiopia's formal engagement in international relations

can be traced back to the late 19th century, particularly around the 1880s.
 Main Factors for Initiation:
o Modernization Efforts: Emperor Menelik II sought to modernize Ethiopia and
establish diplomatic relations to secure the country's sovereignty against colonial
encroachment.
o Defensive Strategy: The desire to maintain independence during the Scramble for
Africa prompted Ethiopia to engage with other nations.

Dominant Players in the International System

1. Sovereign States: Nation-states are the primary actors, influencing global policies and
relations.
2. Great Powers: Countries like the United States, China, Russia, and the European Union hold
significant influence in international affairs.
3. International Organizations: Entities such as the United Nations, NATO, and the World
Trade Organization facilitate cooperation and set international norms.
4. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Organizations like Amnesty International and
Greenpeace play crucial roles in advocacy and policy influence.
5. Multinational Corporations: Major corporations have substantial economic power and can
impact international relations through trade and investment.
QUESTIONS 8

In the context of the recent escalation of the Israel-Palestine conflict in 2023, various power
capabilities were leveraged by the participants involved. Here’s a summary of the capabilities used and
their effectiveness:

Power Capabilities Used

1. Military Capabilities:
o Israel: Utilized advanced military technology, including airstrikes and missile defense
systems like the Iron Dome, to target Hamas infrastructure effectively.
o Hamas: Employed rocket attacks and asymmetric warfare tactics, utilizing tunnels and
guerilla strategies to counter Israel’s military superiority.
2. Economic Capabilities:
o Israel: Maintained a strong economy supported by international trade and technology
sectors, which bolstered its military funding.
o Palestinian Authority and Gaza: Relied on international aid and support from
sympathetic countries, although facing economic challenges due to blockades.
3. Diplomatic Capabilities:
o International Support: Israel received backing from the U.S. and other allies, while
Palestinians sought support from Arab nations and organizations like the UN.
o Negotiation Efforts: International mediators attempted to facilitate ceasefires and
peace talks, though often with limited success.
4. Information and Media Capabilities:
o Public Perception: Both sides utilized media to shape narratives and mobilize support.
Israel emphasized its right to self-defense, while Palestinians highlighted humanitarian
crises.

Effective Capabilities

1. Military Capabilities of Israel:

o Israel's advanced military technology allowed for effective targeting of Hamas,
significantly impacting its operational capabilities.
 2. International Diplomatic Support:
o Strong diplomatic relationships, particularly with the U.S., provided Israel with military
and political backing, legitimizing its actions internationally.
3. Information Warfare:
o Both sides effectively used media, but Israel's narrative resonated strongly with many
Western nations, influencing international responses.
4. Humanitarian Appeals:
o Palestinian groups highlighted humanitarian issues, gaining sympathy and calls for
ceasefires from various international actors, although implementation faced challenges.

QUESTIONS 9

A state is a defined political entity with a permanent population, a defined territory, a government, and
the capacity to enter into relations with other states. Its major components include:

1. Territory: Geographical area under its jurisdiction.

2. Population: Citizens and residents within that territory.
3. Government: Institutions and officials that create and enforce laws.
4. Sovereignty: Authority to govern without external interference.

Non-state actors affecting international relations include multinational corporations, non-

governmental organizations (NGOs), terrorist groups, and international organizations (e.g., the UN).
Their roles differ; while states focus on sovereignty and governance, non-state actors often influence
policy, advocate for social issues, or disrupt stability. Ultimately, these actors can benefit specific
interests, such as economic gain for corporations or humanitarian goals for NGOs.

QUESTIONS 10

The modern international system emerged during an era when agrarian societies relied heavily on
farmland for wealth creation. As economies have transitioned to service and technology-driven
models, the territorial nature of states has been called into question. While territory remains significant
for governance and identity, its economic value is diminishing, leading to potential shifts in state
interactions.
With less emphasis on land-based resources, states may prioritize collaboration over competition,
focusing on shared interests like trade, technology, and environmental issues. This could foster new
forms of alliances that transcend traditional boundaries, encouraging regional integration and global
governance. Additionally, the rise of digital economies may challenge territorial sovereignty, as data
flows and virtual interactions become increasingly vital. Ultimately, states may need to adapt their
policies and strategies to navigate a world where economic value is less tethered to physical territory.

QUESTIONS 11
In international relations theory, the concept of anarchy is the idea that the world lacks any supreme
authority or sovereignty. In an anarchic state, there is no hierarchically superior, coercive power that
can resolve disputes, enforce law, or order the system of international politics. In international
anarchy, states fear each other primarily due to the lack of a central authority to enforce rules and
ensure security. This environment fosters uncertainty and mistrust, as states cannot be sure of others'
intentions. The main cause of this fear is the self-help principle, where states must rely on their own
capabilities for survival, leading to an arms race and defensive postures. Consequently, the desire for
security often drives states to view each other as potential threats, perpetuating a cycle of suspicion
and competition.
QUESTIONS 12
Idealism/Liberalism, Neo-liberalism, Social Constructivism, Constructivism, Positivism, and Post-
positivism are all theoretical frameworks used to understand social phenomena, but they differ
significantly in their core assumptions about reality and how knowledge is constructed, with
Idealism/Liberalism focusing on cooperation and individual rights, Neo-liberalism emphasizing free
markets, Social Constructivism highlighting the social construction of knowledge, Positivism
prioritizing empirical data, and Post-positivism acknowledging the subjective nature of knowledge
alongside empirical evidence; all share a desire to understand the world, but differ in their methods
and emphasis on specific factors shaping reality.

Key Differences:

 Idealism/Liberalism: Believes in the potential for cooperation and peace through international
institutions, emphasizing individual rights and democracy as key drivers of positive change in
society.
 Neo-liberalism: Promotes free market economics, minimal government intervention, and
individual economic freedom as the primary means to achieve societal progress.

 Social Constructivism: Focuses on how social realities are constructed through shared meanings
and interactions between individuals, emphasizing the role of language and social norms in
shaping perception.

 Constructivism (broadly): A broader concept encompassing the idea that knowledge is not
passively received but actively constructed through interaction with the world and others.

 Positivism: Assumes a singular, objective reality that can be understood through empirical
observation and scientific methods, aiming for universal laws.

 Post-positivism: Acknowledges the limitations of pure objectivity, recognizing the role of

subjective interpretations and context in knowledge production.
Similarities:

 Focus on understanding social phenomena: All these theories aim to explain and analyze social
interactions and structures.

 Critical thinking: Each approach encourages critical examination of existing power dynamics
and social norms.

 Social context matters: All recognize the importance of considering the social context when
analyzing phenomena.

QUESTIONS 13

Determining the intentions of states is complex, but several methods can enhance reliability:

1. Diplomatic Communication: Analyzing official statements and treaties for insights.

2. Historical Patterns: Reviewing past behaviors to predict future actions.
3. Intelligence Assessments: Gathering data to assess potential threats.
4. Policy Analysis: Examining domestic and foreign policies for motivations.
5. Public Opinion and Media: Observing discourse to gauge perceptions.
6. Engagement in International Organizations: Participation reflects commitment to norms.
While these methods provide valuable insights, the inherent unpredictability in international relations
means no single approach is foolproof.

QUESTIONS 14

Nationalism, nation, and nation-state are interconnected concepts:

1. Nationalism: An ideology promoting the interests of a particular nation, often emphasizing

self-determination and cultural identity.
2. Nation: A group of people sharing common characteristics, such as language, culture, and
history.
3. Nation-state: A political entity where the boundaries of a nation coincide with a state,
possessing sovereignty and governance.

Similarities:

 All three concepts relate to identity and political organization.

 They emphasize collective belonging and shared values.

Differences:

 Nationalism is an ideology, while a nation is a cultural concept, and a nation-state is a political

structure.

Place of War in the Evolution of the European State System:

War has historically shaped the European state system by redrawing borders, fostering national
identities, and promoting the consolidation of power within nation-states. Conflicts often led to the
emergence of new states and the decline of empires, influencing political boundaries and alliances.

QUESTIONS 15

International relations affect daily life in various ways, such as through global trade, which influences
prices and availability of goods, and cultural exchanges that enrich local communities. Diplomatic
relations can impact travel regulations, visa policies, and international cooperation on issues like
climate change and health crises. Studying International Relations is vital for understanding these
dynamics, enabling individuals to become informed global citizens who can engage in discussions
about international issues. Furthermore, it helps in recognizing the interconnectedness of nations and
the implications of foreign policies on domestic affairs. Responsibility for maintaining international
peace and order lies with several actors, including sovereign states, international organizations like the
United Nations, and regional groups such as the European Union. Additionally, non-governmental
organizations and civil society play crucial roles in advocacy and conflict resolution. International
peace and order are maintained through various mechanisms, including diplomacy, peace treaties, and
conflict resolution strategies. Peacekeeping missions deployed by international organizations help
stabilize conflict zones and protect civilians. Collaboration among nations is essential for addressing
global challenges and preventing conflicts. In a complex and interdependent world, fostering dialogue
and cooperation remains paramount for sustaining peace and security.

QUESTIONS 16

Yes, realism remains relevant in contemporary Europe, as it emphasizes the role of power and national
interests in international relations. The ongoing security challenges, such as Russia's actions in
Ukraine, illustrate the realist perspective that states prioritize survival and sovereignty. Realism
highlights the importance of military capabilities and strategic alliances, which are crucial for
European nations navigating geopolitical tensions. Additionally, economic competition and resource
scarcity underscore the realist view that states act primarily in their self-interest. However, realism
also faces challenges from liberal perspectives, such as increased cooperation through the EU and
multilateralism. While the EU promotes collective security and economic interdependence, realist
dynamics still influence member states' policies. In essence, realism provides a critical lens to
understand power struggles and state behavior in a rapidly changing European landscape. Thus, it
remains a vital framework for analyzing contemporary geopolitical issues. The "tragedy of great
power politics," a concept introduced by political scientist John Mearsheimer, refers to the inevitable
conflict and competition among great powers in an anarchic international system. Here are the key
points:

1. Anarchy: The international system lacks a central authority, leading states to prioritize their
security and survival.
2. Power Competition: Great powers seek to maximize their power and influence, often at the
expense of others, resulting in a zero-sum game.
3. Security Dilemma: As states enhance their military capabilities for security, others perceive
this as a threat, leading to an arms race and increased tensions.
4. Conflict: The pursuit of power and security can lead to wars, as states may preemptively attack
perceived rivals or engage in aggressive behaviors.
5. Historical Patterns: Historical examples, such as World Wars I and II, illustrate how great
power rivalries can escalate into large-scale conflicts.
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