Class 12 Political Science Previous Year: Long Questions with Answers - Alternative Centres of Power

Q.1. (a) Analyze any four factors that make the European Union an influential regional organisation.      [2024]
OR
(b) “ASEAN is rapidly growing into a very important regional organisation." Justify the statement. 
Ans. (a)  Factors that make the European Union an influential regional organisation:

1. Economic and Political Evolution: The European Union has transformed over time from a primarily economic union into an increasingly political one. Initially focused on trade and economic cooperation, it now plays a significant role in global diplomacy, defense, and policy-making, becoming a key political actor in world affairs.

2. Symbolic Unity: The EU's solidarity and unity are symbolized by its common flag, anthem, founding date, and currency (the Euro). These elements reflect the cohesion of the Union and help foster a collective European identity. Additionally, the EU has developed a common foreign and security policy, allowing it to coordinate diplomatic efforts and enhance its global influence.

3. Economic Power: The EU is the world’s second-largest economy, with a GDP exceeding $17 trillion in 2016, making it a major global economic force after the United States. This economic might enables the EU to shape global trade policies and exert significant influence in international institutions, such as the World Trade Organization (WTO).

4. Strategic Global Role: The EU has global political and defense influence. For example, France, one of its member states, is a permanent member of the UN Security Council, which amplifies the EU’s ability to influence international peace and security decisions. Additionally, the EU’s combined armed forces rank second largest in the world, with its total defense spending being second only to that of the United States,

OR

(b) ASEAN’s Growing Influence as a Regional Organisation:

1. Distinct Approach to Governance: ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) has developed a unique approach to regional cooperation known as the ‘ASEAN way.’ This approach emphasizes informal, non-confrontational, and cooperative dialogue, allowing ASEAN to address issues without the formalities and rigidity seen in other regional organizations like the European Union.

2. Economic and Social Expansion: Initially focused on economic and social cooperation, ASEAN has broadened its objectives to include political, security, and cultural cooperation. This expansion of focus has allowed ASEAN to influence a wider range of issues affecting the region, positioning it as a key player in Southeast Asia and beyond.

3. Respect for Sovereignty: Unlike more centralized organizations, ASEAN prioritizes the sovereignty of its member states. This respect for national autonomy has been a hallmark of its interactions, which helps maintain stability within the region while promoting collective action on regional issues.

4. Free Trade and Economic Integration: ASEAN has worked toward creating a Free Trade Area within the region, encouraging investment, labor mobility, and services. This economic integration has made ASEAN a significant economic bloc and strengthened its role in global trade and investment flows.

5. Political and Security Forum: ASEAN is the only regional organization in Asia that provides a platform for political and security discussions. This includes dialogues with major powers like the United States, China, and Japan, giving ASEAN a unique ability to facilitate discussions on regional security concerns and fostering cooperation in areas such as counterterrorism, maritime security, and conflict resolution.

Q.2. (a) Analyze any four factors that make the European Union an influential regional organization of the world.    [2024]
OR
(b) Analyze any four objectives of establishing regional organizations.
Ans. (a) The European Union (EU) stands as a highly influential regional organization due to a combination of economic, political, diplomatic, and military factors:

OR
(b) The establishment of regional organizations serves several key objectives aimed at fostering peace, cooperation, and development among member states:

1. Resolving Historical Conflicts: Regional organizations aim to address historical enmities and weaknesses among neighboring countries, offering platforms for dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution.

2. Building Peaceful and Cooperative Institutions: These organizations develop alternative institutions and conventions that promote a more peaceful and cooperative regional order, encouraging mutual understanding and collaboration.

3. Economic Prosperity: One of the primary goals is to transform the member countries into prosperous economies through collective development efforts, trade cooperation, and shared resources.

4. Promoting Political and Economic Integration: Regional organizations foster political cooperation and economic integration among countries within a specific geographical area, aiming to create a more unified and stable region.

Therefore, regional organizations are designed to strengthen ties, resolve conflicts, and enhance the economic and political stability of the region.

Q.3. (a) While the Chinese economy has improved dramatically, why has everyone in China not received the benefits of the reforms? State any three reasons.     [2024]
OR
(b) Describe the process of evolution of the European Union from an Economic Union to an increasingly Political one.
Ans. (a) Despite the dramatic improvement in the Chinese economy, not everyone has benefitted equally from the reforms. Several factors contribute to this inequality:

OR
(b)The evolution of the European Union (EU) from an economic union to an increasingly political one is a gradual process shaped by various economic and political milestones:

1. Post-War Economic Revival:

   • After World War II, America provided significant financial assistance to Europe through the Marshall Plan, helping to revive the European economy.
   • In 1948, the Organization for European Economic Cooperation (OEEC) was formed to promote trade and economic cooperation among Western European countries.
   • The Council of Europe was established in 1949 to foster political cooperation between European nations, emphasizing shared democratic values.

2. Economic Integration and Political Foundations:

   • In 1957, the European Economic Community (EEC) was created, initiating economic integration by establishing a common market among European nations.
   • The creation of the European Parliament later added a political dimension to the EEC, marking the beginning of political cooperation alongside economic integration.

3. Creation of the European Union (1992):

   • In 1992, the European Union (EU) was formally established, expanding the scope of cooperation to include not just economic ties but also political, security, and social issues.
   • The EU emphasized the development of a common foreign and security policy, cooperation on justice and home affairs, and the creation of a common currency (the euro), which further solidified its political identity.

4. Political Unity and National-State Functions:

   • The EU increasingly began to function like a nation-state, with common policies that affected member states' political, economic, and legal systems.

5. Symbols of Political Identity:

   • Although attempts to create a formal EU Constitution have failed, the EU developed its own flag, anthem, founding date, and currency, symbols that reflect its growing political unity.

6. Foreign Policy and Security:

   • The EU has also developed a common foreign and security policy that guides its interactions with other nations, signaling its emergence as a political actor on the world stage.

Hence, the European Union has evolved from an economic integration project into a complex political union, with shared governance, common policies, and political symbols, while still maintaining its economic foundations.

Q.4. (a) Evaluate any three steps taken by the Chinese leadership for the growth of the Chinese economy.     [2023]
OR
(b) Analyse any three major happenings in Bangladesh that show peoples’ support to democracy.
Ans. (a) The steps taken by Chinese leadership
(i) Open Door Policy: It was announced in 1978 by Deng Yiaoping to generate higher productivity by investments of capital and technology from abroad.
(ii) Market Economy: China introduced its own market economy by the privatization of  agriculture and industry in 1982  and 1988.
(iii) Special Economic Zones: To remove the trade barriers and to  open the economy for foreign investors China set Special Economy Zones‘.
(iv) Accession to WTO: China plans to deepen its integeration into the world economy and shape the future world economic order by its accession to WTO in 2001.
OR
(b)  Key events in Bangladesh that highlight the country’s support for democracy:

1. 1971 Liberation War: Sheikh Mujibur Rahman led the struggle against West Pakistani domination; Awami League won the 1970 elections, leading to Bangladesh's independence.

2. Authoritarian Shift (1975): Sheikh Mujib amended the constitution to a presidential system, abolished all parties except his own, and ruled authoritatively; assassinated in a military uprising.

3. Ziaur Rahman’s Rule: Ziaur Rahman took control, formed the Bangladesh National Party (BNP), and won the 1979 elections, allowing limited political activity.

4. Ershad’s Military Rule: After Zia’s assassination, Lt. Gen. H. M. Ershad seized power; mass protests forced him to allow political activity and step down in 1990.

5. Return to Democracy (1991): Multi-party elections held in 1991, restoring representative democracy in Bangladesh.

Q.5. (a) Evaluate the strength of the European Union as the most effective regional organisation on the basis of any three facts.     [2023]
OR
(b) “Despite various problems, the people in all the South Asian countries share the aspiration and support for democracy.” Justify the statement with any three suitable examples.
Ans. (a) Strength of the European Union:

OR
(b) The statement "Despite various problems, the people in all the South Asian countries share the aspiration and support for democracy" is justified through the following examples:

1. Pakistan: Though the country has faced prolonged military rule, the people’s desire for democracy led to the end of military dominance. After 2006, democracy was restored, though it still faces challenges in becoming fully democratic.

2. Nepal: The people's movement in Nepal was a long and persistent struggle to replace the constitutional monarchy with a democratic government. The success of this movement in establishing a democratic system demonstrates the people's support for democracy.

3. Bangladesh: In the early years, Bangladesh was under a military-dominated regime, but by 1979, the demand for democracy resulted in multi-party elections, and in 1991, representative democracy was firmly established.

These examples highlight the enduring aspiration for democracy in South Asia, despite the various political struggles and challenges faced by these nations.

Q.6. (a) Evaluate the role of ASEAN in the contemporary world.     [2023]
OR
(b) “In spite of the improvement in the Chinese economy, not everyone in China has received the benefits of economic reforms.” Support the statement with three arguments.
Ans. (a)  The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) plays a significant role in regional and global affairs through the following contributions:

1. Economic Growth: ASEAN promotes economic cooperation, trade, and investment among member states, fostering regional economic growth.

2. Social and Cultural Development: It works towards social progress and cultural integration, strengthening ties among Southeast Asian nations.

3. Regional Peace and Stability: ASEAN upholds peace and stability in the region by adhering to the United Nations principles and encouraging diplomatic solutions.

4. ASEAN Way: This approach emphasizes informal, non-confrontational, and cooperative interactions, fostering consensus-based decision-making.

5. Three Pillars of ASEAN Community:

   • ASEAN Security Community: Focuses on conflict resolution and security cooperation.
   • ASEAN Economic Community: Aims for regional economic integration.
   • ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community: Promotes shared cultural identity and social progress.

6. Conflict Resolution: ASEAN actively works to resolve territorial disputes through peaceful negotiations, avoiding armed conflicts.

Thus, ASEAN has emerged as a key player in economic integration, regional security, and diplomatic stability in the contemporary world.

OR

Q.7. (a) Explain the process of evolution of the European Union from an economic union to an increasingly political one.     [2023]
OR
(b) Explain any three factors that led India to emerge as a new Centre of Power.
Ans. (a)The European Union (EU) has evolved from a purely economic entity into a significant political force through the following stages:

1. Post-War Integration (1945 Onwards): European integration was driven by the Cold War, with the US providing financial aid under the Marshall Plan to rebuild war-torn economies.

2. Economic Cooperation: Institutions like the OEEC (1948) and Council of Europe (1949) fostered trade and economic collaboration. The European Economic Community (1957) later led to the formation of the European Parliament, laying the groundwork for political unity.

3. Political and Security Expansion: The EU established a common foreign and security policy, enhanced cooperation in justice and home affairs, and introduced the Euro as a common currency.

4. Emerging as a Political Entity: The EU started acting more like a nation-state, with its own flag, anthem, founding date, and currency, and has developed some degree of political unity in international relations.

5. Global Influence: The EU now holds significant economic, political, diplomatic, and military power, shaping global policies and maintaining influence in world affairs.

Thus, the EU has transformed from an economic bloc into a major political entity with growing global influence.

OR
(b)  Factors Behind India’s Emergence as a New Centre of Power

1. Economic Growth: India's rapidly expanding economy, with a target of $5 trillion, and its vast consumer market make it a key global player.

2. Cultural and Diaspora Influence: India’s rich cultural heritage and a 200-million-strong diaspora worldwide enhance its global presence and soft power.

3. Military and Strategic Strength: India’s self-reliant military, nuclear capability, and focus on indigenous defense production position it as a strong global force.

Additionally, initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and advancements in technology and science further solidify India's role as a major power.

Q.8. ‘The European Union has economic, political and diplomatic, and military influence’. Substantiate the statement. 
Ans. The European Union has economic, political and diplomatic, and military influence.

• The EU is the world's largest economy, with a GDP of approximately $19.35 trillion projected for 2024.
• The Euro poses a challenge to the dominance of the US dollar.
• Its share of world trade is significantly larger than that of the United States, enhancing its assertiveness in trade disputes.
• The EU's economic power extends its influence over neighbouring countries and regions like Asia and Africa.
• Two member states, Britain and France, hold permanent seats on the UN Security Council.
• The EU includes several non-permanent members of the UNSC, allowing it to impact US policies, such as those regarding Iran's nuclear programme.
• Through diplomacy, economic investments, and negotiations, the EU effectively addresses issues like human rights and environmental concerns, notably in its dialogue with China.
• Militarily, the EU's combined armed forces rank as the second largest globally, with defence spending second only to the US.
• It is also a key player in space and communications technology.

Q.9. Evaluate any three major factors responsible for making the European Union a political force from being an economic force.
Ans. Three major factors that transformed the European Union from an economic force to a political one include:

• The Council of Europe, established in 1949, marked a significant step towards political cooperation.
• The formation of the European Economic Community in 1957 led to political discussions and the creation of the European Parliament.
• The collapse of the Soviet Union accelerated the integration process, culminating in the establishment of the European Union in 1992.

The EU has its own flag, anthem, founding date, and currency, which further solidifies its identity as a political entity. As the world's largest economy, the EU also wields considerable political influence.

Q.10. Analyse any three factors responsible for the European Union to be highly influential regional organisation.
Ans. Factors responsible for the European Union to be a highly influential regional organization:
(i) Influence of EU in economic fields:
(a) The EU is the world’s biggest economy.
(b) Its currency, the Euro, can pose threat to the dominance of the US dollar also.
(c) Its economic power gives it influence over its closest neighbours as well as in Asia and Africa.
(d) Its share of world trade is 3 times larger than that of the US.
(ii) Influence of EU in political fields:
(a) Its two members, Britain and France, hold permanent seats in the UN Security Council.
(b) It also includes several non-permanent members of the UNSC.
(c) The EU has influenced some US policies such as the current US position on Iran’s nuclear programme.
(iii) Influence of EU in military fields:
(a) The EU’s combined armed forces are the second largest in the world.
(b) Its total population spending on defence is second after the US.
(c) Its two members, Britain and France, also have nuclear arsenals of approximately 550 nuclear warheads.

Q.11. Analyse the economic and political influence of the European Union.
Ans. The European Union (EU) holds significant political and economic influence globally:

• Political Influence:
  • Two EU members, Britain and France, have permanent seats on the UN Security Council.
  • The EU can influence US policies, such as its stance on Iran's nuclear programme.
  • It employs diplomacy, economic investments, and negotiations rather than military force, as seen in its discussions with China on human rights.
• Economic Influence:
  • The EU is the world's largest economy, with a GDP slightly exceeding that of the United States.
  • The Euro challenges the dominance of the US dollar.
  • Its economic power extends influence over neighbouring countries and regions like Asia and Africa.
  • The EU's share of world trade is three times larger than that of the US, enhancing its assertiveness in trade disputes.
  • It plays a crucial role in international economic organisations, including the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

Despite its strengths, the EU faces challenges:

• Member states often have conflicting foreign relations and defence policies.
• Public reluctance in some countries to cede powers to the EU complicates further integration.

Q.12. Why was the European Union established? Describe its economic, political, diplomatic and military influences.
Ans. As the Second World War came to an end, many European leaders grappled with the question of Europe. Europe should be allowed to revert to its old rivalries or be reconstructed on principles and institutions that would contribute to a positive conception of international relations. The Second World War shattered many of the assumptions and structures on which the European states had based their relations. In 1945, the European states confronted the ruin of their economies and the destruction of the assumptions and structures on which Europe had been founded. The European Union was established with a view to strengthen the economic condition of the Europe.  The foundation was laid for a common foreign and security policy, co-operation on justice and home affairs and the creation of a single currency.
(i) Influence of EU in economic fields:
(a) The EU is the world’s biggest economy.
(b) Its currency, the Euro, can pose threat to the dominance of the US dollar also.
(c) Its economic power gives it influence over its closest neighbours as well as in Asia and Africa.
(d) Its share of world trade is 3 times larger than that of the US.
(ii) Influence of EU in political fields:
(a) Its two members Britain and France hold permanent seats in the UN Security Council.(b) It also includes several non-permanent members of the UNSC.
(c) The EU has influenced some US policies such as the current US position in Iran’s nuclear programme.
(iii) Influence of EU in military fields:
(a) The EU’s combined armed forces are the second largest in the world.
(b) Its total population spending on defence is second after the US.
(c) Its two members, Britain and France, also have nuclear arsenals of approximately 550 nuclear warheads.

Q.13. How did the European countries resolve their post-Second World War problem? Briefly outline the attempts that led to the formation of the European Union.  (NCERT) 
Ans.  The Second World War significantly disrupted the relationships among European states. By 1945, these countries faced severe economic ruin and the collapse of established structures. The resolution of these post-war issues was largely facilitated by American support. The key measures taken included:

• Marshall Plan: This American initiative provided substantial financial aid to help revive Europe’s economy.
• Organisation for European Economic Cooperation (OEEC): Established in 1948, it served as a platform for Western European nations to collaborate on trade and economic matters.
• Council of Europe: Founded in 1949, this organisation marked a significant step towards political cooperation.
• NATO: The US initiated a collective security framework to enhance stability in Europe.

These efforts gradually led to the economic integration of European capitalist countries. The main milestones in the formation of the European Union include:

• Establishment of the Council of Europe in 1949.
• Formation of the European Economic Community in 1957.
• Creation of the European Parliament, adding a political dimension.
• The collapse of the Soviet bloc, which accelerated the process, culminating in the establishment of the European Union in 1992.

These developments laid the groundwork for a unified Europe, fostering cooperation in various domains, including foreign policy and economic matters.

Q.14. What makes the European Union a highly influential regional organisation?
Ans. The European Union (EU) is a highly influential regional organisation due to several key factors:

• Economic Power: The EU is the world's largest economy, with a GDP exceeding that of the United States.
• Trade Influence: Its share of global trade is three times larger than that of the US, enhancing its assertiveness in trade disputes with major economies like the US and China.
• Political and Diplomatic Reach: Two EU members, Britain and France, hold permanent seats on the UN Security Council, allowing the EU to shape international policies.
• Military Strength: The EU's combined armed forces are the second largest globally, and its defence spending ranks second after the US.
• Nuclear Capability: France and Britain, both EU members, possess nuclear arsenals.
• Technological Leadership: The EU is the second most significant source of space and communications technology worldwide.

Q.15. Name the pillars and the objectives of the ASEAN Community.
Ans.  Pillars of the ASEAN Community:

• ASEAN Security Community
• ASEAN Economic Community
• ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community

Objectives of the ASEAN Community:

• To promote peace and stability in the region.
• To foster economic growth and integration among member states.
• To enhance social and cultural cooperation.
• To improve the quality of life for people in ASEAN.

Q.16. The peace and prosperity of countries lay in establishment and strengthening of regional economic organisations. Justify this statement.
Ans. The statement is well supported by the formation of ASEAN. Before and during the Second World War, Southeast Asia faced significant economic and political challenges due to colonialism. After the war, the region struggled with:

• Nation-building
• Poverty and economic backwardness
• Pressure to align with major powers during the Cold War

In search of peace and prosperity, countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand signed the Bangkok Declaration, establishing ASEAN. This organisation has become increasingly important in the region. Its Vision 2020 outlines an outward-looking role for ASEAN in the global community, building on its policy of encouraging negotiation over conflicts. ASEAN has successfully mediated:

• The end of the Cambodian conflict
• The East Timor crisis

Additionally, ASEAN holds annual meetings to discuss East Asian cooperation, further demonstrating its commitment to regional stability and development.

Q.17. Assess the three major factors responsible for the rise of the Chinese economy.
Or
How did China rise to be an economic superpower?
Or
In what ways does the present Chinese economy differs from its command economy?
Ans. China’s economic rise is attributed to several key factors that shaped its rapid transformation:

1. Rapid Growth: China has been the fastest-growing economy in the world, experiencing significant economic expansion over the past few decades.

2. Large Population: With the largest population globally, China benefits from a vast labor force and a massive consumer market, providing both supply and demand for economic growth.

3. Land Reforms: Key land reforms improved agricultural productivity by changing land ownership and usage, driving growth in rural areas.

4. Soviet Model Influence: Initially, China adopted a Soviet-style economy focused on state-owned heavy industries, funded by agricultural output.

5. Import Substitution: To conserve foreign exchange, China aimed to replace imports with domestically produced goods, promoting self-reliance.

Economic Evolution After 1949:

After the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the country’s economy was influenced by Soviet-style policies. However, several significant shifts occurred over time:

• In the 1970s, China began to open up to the outside world, establishing relations with the United States in 1972, marking the end of its isolation.
• Premier Zhou Enlai introduced the ‘Four Modernisations’ in 1973, focusing on improvements in agriculture, industry, science and technology, and military.
• In 1978, Deng Xiaoping implemented the ‘Open Door’ policy, encouraging foreign investment and the introduction of technology.
• China transitioned gradually to a market economy by implementing reforms in a step-by-step manner rather than abrupt changes.

Key Reforms and Policies:

• Privatisation: Beginning with agriculture in 1982 and later extending to industry in 1998, privatisation played a critical role in boosting productivity and efficiency.
• Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Trade barriers were lifted in SEZs, attracting foreign investment and fostering rapid industrialisation.
• State’s Role: Despite market liberalisation, the state has played a crucial role in guiding the economy, balancing market forces with strategic direction.

Results of Reforms:

• Agricultural Growth: Privatisation significantly increased agricultural output and rural incomes.
• High Savings Rates: Rural areas’ high savings rates fueled local industrial growth.
• Industrial and Agricultural Expansion: Both sectors experienced rapid growth due to economic reforms.
• Foreign Trade: New trading laws and SEZs led to a sharp rise in foreign trade, with China becoming a major global trading power.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): China emerged as one of the leading destinations for foreign direct investment.

Thus,China’s economic rise can be attributed to a combination of strategic reforms, gradual market liberalisation, and an emphasis on both domestic development and foreign engagement, making it one of the world’s largest economies today.