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Define nation-states and list the key elements that characterize a state.
Centralized political organizations with authority over a population within a defined territory. Key elements include territory, population, government, and sovereignty.
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Explain the concept of sovereignty in the context of nation-states.
Implies supreme authority and a monopoly on the legitimate use of violence within a state's territory. It is a defining characteristic of statehood.
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What does the Westphalian system of sovereignty assert, and how does it relate to individual states?
Asserts that each state has exclusive sovereignty over its territory, emphasizing the autonomy and independence of individual states in the international system.
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Define the concept of the nation-state and its fundamental premise.
Congruency between the nation (a group of people with a shared identity) and the state (a political organization), suggesting that a state should represent a specific nation.
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What is international law, and how does it differ from domestic law?
Consists of rules, norms, and standards recognized as binding between states, operating outside any particular state's legal order. It differs from domestic law in that it is not enforced in the same manner but relies on voluntary state compliance.
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Enumerate the sources of international law and provide examples of each.
Include treaties, customary international law, general principles of law, judicial decisions, and teachings of qualified jurists. For example, the Geneva Conventions are treaties forming a crucial part of international humanitarian law.
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How is international law enforced, and what role do international courts play in this context?International law is not enforced like domestic law; it relies on the voluntary compliance of states. International courts, such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and International Criminal Court (ICC), adjudicate on issues of international law, contributing to enforcement.
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What is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), and why is it significant in the realm of human rights and international law?
A landmark document in international law, outlining fundamental human rights. It is significant as a foundational text guiding global efforts to protect and promote human rights.
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Define global governance and elaborate on the entities it encompasses.
It refers to a network of institutions and procedures facilitating cooperation, coordination, and conflict resolution among countries and global actors. It includes intergovernmental organizations (IGOs), regional blocs, global civil society, and institutions like the United Nations (UN).
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How did the end of the Cold War impact global governance, and what changes were observed?
Marked a shift in global governance, with a more diverse set of actors beyond states participating in global affairs. This period saw increased participation from non-state entities in global decision-making processes.
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Define global security and distinguish between traditional security concerns and human security.
Involves addressing threats and risks in an interconnected world. Traditional security concerns focus on state sovereignty and defense, while human security prioritizes the safety and well-being of individuals and societies.
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List some contemporary security challenges in the global context.
Terrorism, economic instability, climate change, infectious diseases, and international criminal organizations, reflecting the complex and interconnected nature of global security.
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Identify some Great Powers contributing to international tensions, and briefly describe specific challenges associated with Russia.Great Powers contributing to tensions include Russia, China, and the United States. Russia's challenges include annexing Crimea and interference in foreign elections, raising concerns about its adherence to international norms.
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Discuss China's role in international tensions, focusing on its assertiveness in territorial disputes.
Contributes to international tensions through assertiveness in territorial disputes, notably in the South China Sea. This behavior raises concerns about regional stability and adherence to international norms.
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Why do international tensions persist among Great Powers, and what role do international institutions play in resolving these tensions?
Persists due to competition among Great Powers. International institutions play a role in peaceful resolution by providing platforms for dialogue, negotiation, and conflict resolution.
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How does the annexation of Crimea by Russia impact international order, and why is it considered a source of concern?The annexation of Crimea by Russia challenges the established international order, violating principles of territorial integrity. It is a source of concern as it raises questions about adherence to international norms and the potential for similar actions in the future.
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Explain the concept of arms races in the context of traditional security concerns.
Refers to the competitive buildup of military capabilities by states, driven by concerns about national security and defense. This dynamic has historically contributed to increased global tensions.
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How has the definition of security expanded with the concept of human security?
It expands the concept of security beyond state-centric concerns to prioritize the safety and well-being of individuals and societies, recognizing a broader range of threats and vulnerabilities.
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Name two international courts involved in adjudicating issues of international law and provide a brief description of their functions.
International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICJ settles legal disputes between states, while the ICC prosecutes individuals for international crimes.
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Discuss the role of international civil society in global governance and its impact on shaping international norms.
Plays a crucial role in global governance by advocating for issues such as human rights, environmental protection, and social justice. Their activism contributes to shaping international norms and influencing global decision-making processes.
