Balance Of Power

Balance of Power – Explanation with Examples

Definition:

The Balance of Power is an idea in international relations where power is shared among countries so
that no single country becomes too strong. It helps keep peace by making sure no one country can
control others or start a war easily.

According to Britannica Concise Encyclopedia, Balance of Power means keeping power equal so that
no country can force its will on others. When countries have similar strength, they avoid war because
they know the other side is strong enough to fight back.

For example, during the Cold War, the United States and the Soviet Union had equal military power.
This balance stopped them from fighting directly because both had nuclear weapons and could
destroy each other.

Ways to Keep the Balance of Power

Alliance and Counter-Alliance

Countries form groups called alliances to protect themselves from stronger enemies. When one
group forms, other countries create a counter-alliance to stay equal in power. Alliances can be for
defense (protection) or offense (fighting an enemy).

Example: In World War I, two major alliances formed: the Allied Powers (Britain, France, Russia, and
later the USA) and the Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire). These
alliances made sure no single country could take over Europe completely.

Compensations

After a war, the winning countries sometimes take land, money, or resources from the losing side.
This makes the defeated country weaker, so it does not become a future threat.

Example: After World War I, Germany lost land to France and Poland as a punishment for starting
the war. This helped weaken Germany so it could not become too powerful again.

Partition (Dividing Land)

Sometimes, big countries divide a smaller country’s land to prevent it from becoming too strong. By
breaking a country into parts, no single nation can control the whole area.

Example: In 1772, Poland was divided between Russia, Prussia, and Austria. This stopped Poland
from becoming too strong and kept power balanced in Europe.

Armament and Disarmament

Countries build strong armies (armament) to protect themselves, but when too many weapons are
made, it can lead to an arms race and tension between nations. To prevent this, some countries
agree to reduce their weapons (disarmament) to keep peace.
Example: During the Cold War, the USA and USSR built many nuclear weapons. Later, they signed
agreements like START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) to reduce the number of weapons and
lower the risk of war.

Intervention and War

Sometimes, a strong country gets involved in another country’s problems to control the situation and
protect its own interests. If discussions fail, this can lead to war.

Example: The USA invaded Iraq in 2003, saying Iraq had dangerous weapons. This war changed the
Balance of Power in the Middle East.

Divide and Rule

Some countries try to weaken their enemies by keeping them divided. If rival groups stay separate,
they cannot join forces to fight back.

Example: The British used "Divide and Rule" in India by creating divisions among Indian rulers and
communities. This stopped them from uniting against British rule and helped Britain stay in power.

Buffer States

A buffer state is a small, neutral country between two powerful nations. It acts as a protective zone
to prevent direct conflict between big rivals.

Example: Nepal is a buffer state between China and India. It helps prevent direct fights between
these two powerful countries.

Conclusion

The Balance of Power is important for keeping peace and making sure no country becomes too
strong. Throughout history, different methods like alliances, military buildup, and dividing land have
helped keep this balance. However, if these methods are not used properly, they can also lead to
war, as seen in World War I, World War II, and the Cold War. Today, countries try to use diplomacy,
peace agreements, and international cooperation to maintain the Balance of Power and prevent
global conflicts.

Causes Of War
Principle Causes of Warfare

War is a state of armed conflict between different groups, societies, or countries.

It involves aggression, destruction, and often high mortality rates. The actions and techniques used in
warfare define how wars are conducted. When war is absent, the state is referred to as peace.

Types of War
 1. Total War – This type of war does not only involve the military but also impacts the entire
population of a country. All resources, including the economy and civilians, are mobilized for
war.

o Example: World War II, where entire nations contributed to the war effort, including
civilians working in war industries.

2. Limited War – This is a war fought with specific goals, using limited resources and avoiding
unnecessary destruction. It does not aim for complete enemy defeat but rather to weaken
them.

o Example: The Indo-Pak Wars, where the objective was to gain control over certain
regions rather than total conquest.

3. Preemptive War – A country launches a war expecting an attack from the enemy. This is
done to gain an early advantage and weaken the opponent before they can strike.

o Example: The Six-Day War (1967) between Israel and Arab nations, where Israel
attacked first to prevent an expected invasion.

4. Guerrilla War – In this type of warfare, small, independent groups fight against larger forces
using surprise attacks, ambushes, and hit-and-run tactics.

o Example: The Vietnam War, where the Viet Cong used guerrilla warfare against
American forces.

5. Civil War – A war that takes place within a single country between two or more groups, often
due to political, ethnic, or religious differences.

o Example: The American Civil War (1861-1865) between the Northern and Southern
states over issues like slavery and state rights.

6. Unlimited Nuclear War – A war in which nuclear weapons are used on a massive scale, with
no restrictions, leading to widespread destruction and catastrophic consequences.

o Example: If a global nuclear war occurred between major powers, it could result in
total devastation.

7. Limited Nuclear War – A war in which nuclear weapons are used in a controlled manner,
targeting specific military objectives while avoiding large-scale destruction.

o Example: The Cold War nuclear strategies, where tactical nuclear weapons were
considered for limited conflicts.

Causes of War

1. Disturbed Balance of Power – In international relations, stability depends on a balance of

power among nations. When one country becomes too powerful, others feel threatened and
may go to war to restore balance.

o Example: The Cold War, where the USA and USSR competed for global dominance,
leading to indirect conflicts like the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
2. Nationalism & Separatism – Nationalism is a strong belief in the superiority of one's nation,
while separatism is the desire of a group to break away and form an independent state. Both
can lead to war.

o Example: The breakup of Yugoslavia, where different ethnic groups sought

independence, leading to violent conflicts.

3. Communication Failure – When countries fail to negotiate or misunderstand each other’s

intentions, conflicts arise. A lack of diplomacy often leads to war.

o Example: World War I, which started partly due to failed diplomacy and
misunderstandings between European nations.

4. Military-Industrial Complex – Some industries benefit from war by selling weapons and
military equipment. Such industries may influence governments to engage in war for profit.

o Example: The Gulf War (1991), where defense contractors benefited from large
military spending and weapon sales.

5. Human Nature – Throughout history, humans have sought power, dominance, and territorial
expansion, leading to wars. The desire to control resources and expand influence is a natural
cause of war.

o Example: Alexander the Great’s conquests, where he sought to expand his empire
across vast regions.

6. Troublemakers – Some leaders, organizations, or groups deliberately create instability to gain

power. Terrorist organizations and extremist groups often use violence to achieve their goals.

o Example: ISIS (Islamic State), which caused conflicts in the Middle East through
extremist ideologies and violent attacks.

7. Loss of Control – Some wars begin with specific objectives but escalate beyond what was
planned, leading to larger conflicts.

o Example: The Vietnam War, which started as a local conflict but turned into a
prolonged and devastating war involving multiple nations.

8. Misperception – Countries sometimes overestimate their strength and underestimate their

enemies, leading to war.

o Example: Germany in World War II, where Hitler underestimated the Soviet Union’s
resistance and launched an invasion, leading to disastrous consequences.

9. Political Issues – Governments sometimes use war as a distraction from internal problems
such as economic crises, protests, or political instability.

o Example: Argentina’s invasion of the Falkland Islands (1982), which was partly aimed
at diverting public attention from domestic economic struggles.

10. Armed Forces and Arms Race – The buildup of military strength and competition in weapons
development can create tension and increase the likelihood of war. Nations may engage in
an arms race, leading to conflicts.
  Example: The Cold War arms race between the USA and the USSR, where both nations
continuously increased their military power, leading to heightened global tensions.

Conclusion

War is a complex phenomenon caused by multiple factors, including power struggles, nationalism,
economic interests, political instability, and military expansion. While war has shaped history, its
consequences are devastating. Understanding these causes helps in preventing conflicts through
diplomacy, negotiation, and international cooperation. Promoting peace is essential for global
stability and development.

International Political Economy

Definition (3 Lines)

International Political Economy (IPE) studies the interaction between politics, economics, and society
on a global scale. It examines how political institutions, economic structures, and social forces shape
international economic relations. Key areas include trade, finance, globalization, and the distribution
of wealth and power.

Historical Evolution (Summary in Points)

Pre-Modern Economic Systems

Before modern economic systems, pre-modern economies were localized with limited trade and
simple exchanges.
Barter Economy:
Ancient societies relied on barter, exchanging goods directly without money, limited by the "double
coincidence of wants."
Mercantilism:
Mercantilism focused on accumulating wealth through exports, colonization, and trade monopolies,
with European powers competing for overseas control.

Emergence of Capitalism & Nation-States

The shift from feudalism to capitalism marked a major change in economic organization, with the
rise of nation-states and market economies.
Rise of Capitalism:
Capitalism emerged in Europe with private ownership, wage labor, and market exchange, driven by
innovations like the printing press and navigation tools.
Nation-State Formation:
The rise of capitalism coincided with modern nation-states, which supported economic growth
through policies on industry, infrastructure, and trade.

Industrial Revolution & Global Economic Integration

The Industrial Revolution (late 18th–19th century) reshaped economies, driving global
interconnectedness.
Industrialization:
Mechanized production, powered by steam engines and factories, spurred urbanization, wage labor,
and shifting consumption patterns.
Global Economic Integration:
Global trade expanded, with faster flows of goods, raw materials, and capital, supported by
steamships, railroads, and the telegraph.

Bretton Woods System & Post-WWII Economic Order

After World War II, the Bretton Woods conference established a new economic framework to
promote global stability and cooperation.
Bretton Woods Conference:
In 1944, 44 Allied nations created a system for international financial relations, establishing the IMF
and World Bank, with fixed exchange rates tied to the US dollar.
Post-War Economic Order:
The Bretton Woods system led to significant economic growth and stability, boosting trade and
cooperation. However, by the 1970s, economic imbalances, inflation, and the collapse of the gold
standard weakened the system.

General Introduction in International Relations (IR)

International Political Economy (IPE) is a key subfield of International Relations (IR) that combines
political and economic analysis. It examines how states, institutions, and markets shape global affairs,
offering frameworks to understand trade policies, financial crises, and globalization.

Political Impacts of IPE

 Global Power Shifts: Economic dominance affects political influence.

 Trade Wars & Tariffs: Policies shape diplomatic and economic relations.

 International Organizations: IMF, World Bank, and WTO regulate global finance.

 Economic Inequality: Wealth disparities influence political stability.

 Globalization & Sovereignty: Nations balance economic integration with political

independence.

International security short note

International Security is a key concept in International Relations, focusing on the safety, stability, and
survival of states in a globalized world. It involves addressing both traditional threats, such as
military conflicts and territorial disputes, and non-traditional challenges like terrorism, cyber
warfare, and climate change.

Key approaches include National Security, which protects state sovereignty; Collective Security,
where nations cooperate to counter threats (e.g., NATO); and Human Security, which prioritizes
individual well-being over military concerns.

Emerging threats include climate change, pandemics, and technological advancements like AI-
driven cyber-attacks. The security dilemma explains how states' defensive actions can
unintentionally escalate tensions, leading to arms races, as seen during the Cold War’s nuclear
buildup. Managing these challenges requires arms control agreements, diplomatic confidence-
building measures, and international institutions like the UN and IAEA to promote peace and
stability.
Short Note on International Security
International Security refers to the measures taken by states and global organizations to ensure
peace, stability, and survival in an interconnected world. It addresses both traditional threats, such
as military conflicts and territorial disputes, and non-traditional threats, including terrorism, cyber-
attacks, pandemics, and climate change.
Key approaches include National Security, which protects state sovereignty; Collective Security,
where nations cooperate against threats (e.g., NATO); and Human Security, which focuses on
protecting individuals from poverty, disease, and environmental risks.
Emerging threats like climate change, cyber warfare, and AI-driven military advancements pose
new challenges. The security dilemma explains how states' defensive actions, such as arms races,
can escalate tensions, as seen in the Cold War's nuclear buildup.
To manage these threats, international efforts focus on arms control treaties (e.g., New START),
confidence-building measures, and global institutions like the UN and IAEA, which work towards
conflict prevention and disarmament. Ensuring long-term security requires international cooperation
and a balance between military readiness and diplomatic engagement.

United Nation (UNO)

What Are International and Regional Organizations?

 Regional Organizations: Groups of countries from the same area working together for
economic, political, and security reasons. Examples:
o European Union (EU)
o African Union (AU)
o Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
o Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)

 International Organizations: Groups that include countries from all over the world to solve
global problems like trade, human rights, and peace. Examples:
o United Nations (UN)
o World Trade Organization (WTO)
o International Monetary Fund (IMF)
o World Health Organization (WHO)

Why Are These Organizations Important?

1. Keeping Peace – They help prevent conflicts and support peace talks.
2. Helping Countries Work Together – They promote teamwork between nations.
3. Solving Conflicts – They provide platforms for peace discussions.
4. Helping People in Need – They provide food, medicine, and disaster aid.
5. Encouraging Trade – They create rules to make trade easier and fairer.
6. Protecting Human Rights – They work to ensure people are treated fairly.

United Nations (UN) – What Does It Do?

 Founded in 1945 to prevent future wars and encourage global cooperation.
  Main Goals:
1. Maintain peace and security.
2. Protect human rights.
3. Solve global problems.
4. Help countries work together.

How Is the UN Structured?

The UN has six main parts:
1. General Assembly – Where all countries meet to discuss world issues.
2. Security Council – Decides on peacekeeping missions and sanctions.
3. International Court of Justice – Settles legal disputes between countries.
4. Secretariat – Manages the daily work of the UN.
5. Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) – Handles economic and social matters.
6. Trusteeship Council – Previously helped in decolonization (not active now).

Key Roles of the UN

1. Peacekeeping – Sends troops to conflict zones to maintain peace. Example: UN
peacekeeping in Cyprus.
2. Humanitarian Aid – Helps in disasters and war zones. Example: UN aid to Syria.
3. Human Rights – Protects people’s rights worldwide. Example: UN reports on Rohingya
Muslims in Myanmar.
4. Sustainable Development – Works on issues like poverty and climate change. Example: UN
Climate Talks (COP meetings).
5. Diplomatic Negotiations – Helps resolve international conflicts. Example: Iran Nuclear Deal
(2015).

Conclusion
International organizations, especially the UN, help maintain peace, solve global problems, support
economic growth, and protect human rights. They play a crucial role in diplomacy, development,
and disaster relief worldwide.