QUICKE REVISION - Contemporary Centres of Power
European Union (EU)
Post-WWII Foundations:
Second World War marked a historical turning point.
Debates revolved around rebuilding Europe on cooperative principles versus reverting to old rivalries.
European integration was accelerated by Cold War dynamics and the Marshall Plan (1948).
Evolution:
OEEC (1948): Economic cooperation channel for Marshall Plan aid.
Council of Europe (1949): Initiated political cooperation.
European Economic Community (1957): Foundation for economic integration.
European Union (1992): Formalized with the Maastricht Treaty, emphasizing foreign/security policies, justice, home affairs, and a common currency (Euro).
Influence:
Economic: Second largest global economy, significant FDI source, and WTO influence.
Political: France's UN Security Council seat; active diplomatic initiatives.
Military: Second-largest combined armed forces, nuclear arsenal (France).
Challenges:
Divergent foreign policies among member states (e.g., Iraq invasion).
Euro-skepticism in countries like the UK, Denmark, and Sweden.
Limited unity in defense and international relations.
Symbolism: The EU flag’s 12 stars signify unity and perfection.
ASEAN
Foundation:
Formed in 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand via the Bangkok Declaration.
Aimed at economic growth, social progress, cultural development, and peace based on UN principles.
Development:
Adopted the ASEAN Way: Informal, cooperative interactions.
Expanded to include pillars like the ASEAN Economic, Security, and Socio-cultural Communities (2003).
Established the ASEAN Regional Forum (1994) for foreign policy coordination.
Economic Goals:
Creating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Promoting investment and regional development under "Vision 2020."
India-ASEAN Relations:
Stronger ties post-Cold War, with trade agreements and the ASEAN-India FTA (2010).
China’s Rise
Economic Growth:
Fastest-growing economy since 1978 reforms under Deng Xiaoping.
Introduced the "Open Door Policy" and Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
Became a major FDI destination and joined the WTO in 2001.
Challenges:
Rising unemployment, economic inequality, environmental issues, and corruption.
Uneven development between urban and rural areas.
Global Role:
Significant contributions to ASEAN stability post-1997 crisis.
Major power in global trade and diplomacy.
Indo-China Relations
Historical influences and tributary systems gave way to disputes post-Tibet takeover (1950) and the Sino-Indian War (1962).
Improved relations since the 1980s, with significant bilateral trade growth and collaboration in international institutions.
Japan and South Korea
Japan:
Rebuilt after WWII, now a G7 member and significant global economic/military power.
Security alliance with the US (since 1951).
South Korea:
Rapid development referred to as the "Miracle on the Han River."
Active international presence: OECD member, significant military spender, and top-ranked in HDI.
Important Dates
1948: Marshall Plan implemented.
1957: Establishment of European Economic Community.
1967: ASEAN formed.
1992: Maastricht Treaty signed, creating the EU.
2002: Euro introduced.
2016: Brexit referendum.
