Advanced Diploma in Global Business Management
IBM20950: Contemporary Issues in International Business
Assignment 1 - Individual REPORT
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. This assignment carries 50% of the total marks for the module.
2. Students are to complete this assignment individually.
3. The assessment criteria are:
(a)
Substance
(b)
Originality of work
(c)
Presentation
(d)
Use of illustrations/examples, where appropriate
4. Student(s) will be expected to research a given topic (see next page) and present a
written report of no more than 1500 words.
5. Sources must be quoted appropriately (Harvard Referencing ONLY). Any similarities
between individual assignments may result in a failing grade.
6. Pages should be clearly numbered.
7. The format of the assignment should be as follows:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
Front cover (i.e. title page), stating the:
 Module name and code
 Student’s full name and FIN Number
 Name of lecturer
 Submission date
Contents page
Main body of the assignment
References
8. Students are to retain a photocopy of the course assignment.
9. Submission Date: Week 6
10. The assignment should be in Times New Roman, font size 12, 1.5 lines spacing, with
justified alignment.
11. If a student submits his/her assignment ten days after the deadline, the student will be given a
mark of zero (0).
Assignment 1 Essay - IBM20950: Contemporary Issues in International Business
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Assignment 1 – Written Report
Geopolitical Instabilities and International Business
Geopolitical tensions, including the Russia-Ukraine war, South China Sea territorial disputes, and
the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, significantly impact the global business environment. These
conflicts create uncertainties in trade, investment, and regional stability, posing challenges for
international businesses operating in affected regions or dependent on these markets.
Required:
You are required to conduct in-depth research and analysis in the form of a report
addressing the impact of geopolitical instabilities on international business.
The proposed report formats are as follows:
1. Introduction

Provide an overview of geopolitical instabilities and their relevance to international
business.

Discuss the Russia-Ukraine war, South China Sea territorial disputes, and the IsraeliPalestinian conflict, outlining their significance in the global context.
2. Evaluation of Key Concepts
Analyze two (2) critical aspects of global business affected by geopolitical instabilities:
a. Global Supply Chains
Discuss how conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the South China Sea disputes
impact global supply chains, with a focus on disruptions, increased costs, and trade route
shifts.
b. Energy and Resource Markets
Assess the effects of geopolitical tensions on energy markets, particularly focusing on oil
and natural gas prices, and the strategic importance of the Middle East and Eastern Europe.
Assignment 1 Essay - IBM20950: Contemporary Issues in International Business
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3. Ethical Impacts on Business Decision-Making

Examine the ethical dilemmas international businesses face when operating in conflict
zones or navigating issues related to these geopolitical tensions.

Consider aspects like corporate responsibility, compliance with international sanctions,
and the impact of regional instability on decision-making.
4. Conclusion and Recommendations

Summarize key findings and provide actionable recommendations for businesses to
mitigate risks associated with geopolitical instabilities.

Suggest strategies to enhance supply chain resilience, ethical decision-making, and longterm sustainability in the face of these challenges.
5. References

Use academic and industry sources to support your analysis and ensure thorough research.

(Hint: Further research is encouraged. Use course materials and additional sources for
comprehensive insights.)
Assignment 1 Essay - IBM20950: Contemporary Issues in International Business
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Assignment 1 Essay - IBM20950: Contemporary Issues in International Business
Page 1 / 4