COURSE TITLE:

IR & CURRENT AFFAIRS

Lecture 1: Introduction to IR
Lecturer: Ayesha Hassan
WHAT IS IR?
 INTRODUCTION TO IR

What is IR?
• International Relations (IR) refers to the study of interactions between
nations, states, and other actors on the global stage.
• It encompasses various topics, including diplomacy, foreign policy,
conflict resolution, globalization, and international law.

Scope of IR
• IR integrates insights from political science, economics, history, law,
and sociology to understand global affairs comprehensively.
• IR is not just a field of academic study, we all participate in and
contribute to International Relations daily.
 INTRODUCTION TO IR

• Every time we watch the news, vote in election, buy or boycott goods from the supermarket,
we are participating in International relations.
• The decisions we make in our daily lives have an effect, however small, the world in which
we live.
• At the same time, IR has a significant impact on our lives. Our daily lives are increasingly
international in their focus, improvements in communications and transport technology mean
we are constantly coming into contact with people, places, products, opportunities and ideas
from other countries.
• The term international relations incorporates the vast and multi-colored phenomena
composed of the international conference, the comings and goings of diplomats, the signing
of treaties, the deployment of military forces and the flow of international trade as well as
burning issues of migrant workers, asylum seekers etc.
 • According to Hans Morgenthau, “ International
relations is a struggle for power among nations.”

• Quincy Wright defines international relations as

DEFINITIONS OF IR "relations between groups of major importance in the
life of the world at any period of history.”

• Norman Podelford and George Lincoln define

“international relations as the interaction of State
politics with the changing pattern of power
relationships.”
HISTORY OF IR
 HISTORY OF IR

• Diplomacy, statecraft, and international law were studied within political science, history,
and philosophy. Thinkers like Thucydides, Machiavelli, and Kant laid the groundwork for
later IR theories.
• Historical starting point of modern IR- Treaty of Westphalia (1648). Established the
principle of sovereignty of the state as a foundation for relations among the states.
• Two important historical processes provided a strong impetus to the study of IR as an
academic discipline
 HISTORY OF IR

• Imperialism in the late 19th century and early 20th century- helped globalize the
international economy and solidified the connections between economies and politics
• Word War I brought awareness of the destructiveness of war and its social, economic and
political implications
• However, the modern discipline of IR emerged in the post-World War II era, particularly
in the United States.
• The establishment of the League of Nations and later the United Nations marked the
beginning of a new era of international cooperation and institution-building.
AGENDA
 STUDYING IR - AGENDA

Agenda- what they want to Gold: pursuit of economic

achieve. Throughout history States interest- hydrocarbon
have 3 objectives under their resource/ access to market,
agenda (Remember 3Gs)- Gold, graining foothold of a
God and Glory geostrategic location

Glory: considering yourself

superior to others either
God: religious/cultural personal aggrandizements
norms and values you like Alexander's or a
consider superior to others hegemonic design of a
ruling elite of a country like
the USA
 KEY CONCEPTS OF
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
 KEY CONCEPTS OF IR

What is state?
A state is composed of
a) A define territory demarcated by specific boundaries
b) A define population residing in that territory
c) An integrated set of institutions that is capable of making and enforcing laws over this
population (internal sovereignty)
d) The recognition by other states of the sovereignty of that state
Sovereignty in political theory, is the ultimate authority in the decision-making process of
the state and in the maintenance of the order.
 KEY CONCEPTS OF IR

What is meant by actors in international relations?

• Actors in international relations are the entities that make international relations work.
These include State Actors, or countries, and Non-state Actors, like intergovernmental
organizations, non-governmental organizations, and multinational enterprises.
State Actors
State actors refer to sovereign states or governments that participate in international
relations, making decisions and taking actions on the global stage
 KEY CONCEPTS OF IR

State actors can include:

1. Government: Executive, legislative, and judicial branches of a state.
2. Ministries: Departments responsible for foreign affairs, defense, trade, and other areas.
3. Diplomatic missions: Embassies, consulates, and permanent missions to international
organizations.
4. Heads of state: Presidents, prime ministers, monarchs, or other leaders representing their
state.
5. Government agencies: Intelligence services, central banks, and other state-controlled
entities.
 KEY CONCEPTS OF IR

Non-State Actors
Non-state actors (NSAs) in International Relations refer to entities that participate in global
affairs but are not sovereign states. NSAs can influence international relations, global
governance, and decision-making processes.
Examples of non-state actors include:
1. International Organizations (IOs):
- United Nations (UN) - European Union (EU)
2. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs):
- Human Rights Watch - Amnesty International
 KEY CONCEPTS OF IR

3. Multinational Corporations (MNCs):

- Transnational businesses like Apple, Toyota, or Shell
4. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs):
- Community groups - Think tanks
5. Media and News Organizations:
- Global news agencies like Reuters - Social media platforms
6. Religious Organizations:
- The Vatican - Islamic Relief
7. Terrorist Organizations:
- Al-Qaeda - ISIS
 KEY CONCEPTS OF IR

Power
Power in global politics refers to a state's or actor's ability to influence others. This power
can be categorized as:
Hard Power: It includes military strength and economic might.
Soft Power: It includes cultural influence, diplomacy, and values.
Example:
The United States exerts both hard and soft power globally. While its military and economic
strength define its hard power, Hollywood, tech giants, and democratic values contribute to
its soft power.
 KEY CONCEPTS OF IR

Global governance
It refers to the collective efforts to identify, understand, and address worldwide problems
beyond individual states’ capacity. This involves various international organizations and
agreements that aim to manage global issues like climate change, trade regulations, and
human rights.
Example:
The Paris Agreement on climate change is an example of global governance where multiple
countries work together to combat global warming by setting emission reduction targets.
MAJOR TRENDS IN CONTEMPORARY
GLOBAL POLITICS
 a global power
structure where
one state or actor
possesses
MAJOR TRENDS IN IR
significantly more
power, influence,
and dominance
than others.
Rise of Multipolarity
We are witnessing a shift from a unipolar world, dominated by the United States, to a
multipolar world where multiple countries, including China, the European Union, and India,
hold significant power. This shift affects global alliances, trade, and even conflicts.
Example:
The increasing influence of China in Africa through infrastructure investments as part of the
Belt and Road Initiative is an example of the rise of multipolarity.
 MAJOR TRENDS OF IR

Globalization vs. Protectionism:

Globalization refers to the world’s increasing interconnectedness through trade, investment,
and communication. However, recent years have seen a rise in protectionism, where
countries impose tariffs and barriers to protect their industries.
Example:
The Brexit vote and the US-China trade war are examples of the backlash against
globalization, where countries sought to protect their economies from perceived threats of
global competition.
 MAJOR TRENDS OF IR

The Role of Technology

Technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital
currencies, are redefining global politics. These technologies pose both opportunities and
challenges for states and businesses alike.
Example:
Cyberattacks have become a significant threat in global politics, with countries like Russia
and North Korea allegedly using cyber warfare to influence other nations’ politics.
 MAJOR TRENDS OF IR

Environmental Politics
Climate change has become a central issue in global politics, influencing international relations
and the global economy. Countries are now more than ever focusing on sustainable
development, reducing carbon emissions, and addressing the consequences of environmental
degradation.
Example: The Paris Agreement, where countries have pledged to limit global warming,
illustrates the importance of environmental politics in global governance. The goals include
• Try to keep the Earth's temperature from rising more than 2°C (3.6°F) above what it was
before the Industrial Revolution (around 1850).
• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Support climate change research and development
REGIONAL DYNAMICS AND GLOBAL POLITICS
 REGIONAL
DY N A M I C S A N D
G LO B A L P O L I T I C S

South Asia
South Asia is a geopolitically crucial region with
ongoing conflicts and rivalries, particularly
between India and Pakistan. The region faces
challenges such as political instability, terrorism,
and poverty. India's growing economic and
military power, combined with its rivalry with
China, makes South Asia a focal point in global
geopolitics.
Example:
The India-Pakistan conflict over Kashmir
continues to be a flashpoint for regional tension,
affecting security and diplomatic relations.
Additionally, India's participation in QUAD
(Quadrilateral Security Dialogue with the US,
Japan, and Australia) is part of its strategy to
counter China's influence in the Indo-Pacific.
 REGIONAL
DY N A M I C S A N D
G LO B A L P O L I T I C S

Asia-Pacific
The rise of China and India as
major powers is reshaping the
geopolitical landscape of the Asia-
Pacific region. Tensions in areas
like the South China Sea and the
Taiwan Strait are significant
flashpoints in global politics.
Example:
China’s Belt and Road Initiative
(BRI) has increased its influence
in the region through infrastructure
investments, reshaping trade and
geopolitical alliances across Asia.
 REGIONAL
TRENDS AND
G LO B A L P O L I T I C S

Middle East
The Middle East remains one of the
most volatile regions in the world due to
religious conflicts, resource control
(especially oil), and power struggles.
These dynamics have global
implications, particularly in energy
markets.
Example:
The rivalry between Iran and Saudi
Arabia influences not only the politics of
the Middle East but also the global oil
market, which in turn affects global
economic stability.
 REGIONAL DYNAMICS
AND GLOBAL DYNAMICS

Europe
The European Union plays a crucial role in global
politics, but it faces challenges such as Brexit,
economic disparities among member states, and the
rise of nationalism.
Example:
Brexit has significantly altered the political and
economic landscape of Europe, affecting everything
from trade agreements to labor mobility.
 REGIONAL
DY N A M I C S A N D
G LO B A L P O L I T I C S

Russia and Central Asia

Russia plays a significant role in global and
regional politics, especially in Eastern
Europe and Central Asia, where it seeks to
maintain influence over former Soviet states.
Central Asia, rich in natural resources, is
strategically important for Russia and other
global powers like China, investing heavily
in the region through initiatives like the Belt
and Road.
Example
Russia’s involvement in regional
organizations like the Eurasian Economic
Union (EAEU) demonstrates its efforts to
foster economic integration and cooperation
with Central Asian countries, promoting
regional trade and infrastructure
development.
 REGIONAL
DY N A M I C S A N D
G LO B A L P O L I T I C S

Africa
Africa's significance in global politics
is growing due to its vast natural
resources and emerging markets.
However, the continent faces
challenges like political instability,
corruption, and foreign influence.
Example:
China’s extensive investment in
African infrastructure projects as part
of its Belt and Road Initiative has
made Africa a key region in global
geopolitics.
 REGIONAL DYNAMICS AND
GLOBAL POLITICS

Latin America
Latin America deals with issues like political instability, corruption,
and economic inequality, which impact its role in global politics.
Countries like Brazil and Mexico are key players in regional trade and
diplomatic efforts.
Example:
Brazil’s involvement in BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and
South Africa) exemplifies its efforts to assert influence in both
regional and global politics, focusing on cooperation and economic
development.
North America
The United States remains a dominant force in global politics, but it
faces challenges from domestic polarization and shifting international
dynamics. Canada's role often involves balancing its close relationship
with the US while engaging in global multilateralism.
LEVEL OF ANALYSIS
 LEVEL OF ANALYSIS

• In International Relations, the level of analysis refers to the scope or perspective from
which to examine international phenomena.

Domestic(or state or
Individual Level societal) level

Level of
Analysis

Interstate(or international Global Level

or systematic) level
 LEVEL OF ANALYSIS

Domestic Level
Individual Level
• Concerns the aggregation of
• Concern the perceptions, individuals within the state
that influence state actions
choices, and actions of
in the international arena
individual human being
• Includes interest groups,
• Example of Influences:
political organizations, and
Trump’s unconventional
government agencies
diplomacy and Twitter-based
foreign policy
 LEVEL OF ANALYSIS

Interstate Level
• Focuses on the interactions of
Global Level
states themselves, without
• Seeks to explain international
regard to their internal makeup
outcomes in terms of global
or the particular individuals
trends and forces that
who lead them
• It pays attentions to state’s transcend the interactions of
states themselves
relative power position in the
international system and the
interactions among them
 LEVEL OF ANALYSIS

Individual Level
• Great leaders, Crazy leaders, decision-making in crisis, Citizens’ participation (voting,
rebelling, going to war, etc.)

Domestic Level
• Nationalism, Ethnic Conflict, Type of Government, Political Parties and elections, public
opinion
 LEVEL OF ANALYSIS

Interstate Level
• Power, Alliances and information dissolution
• War, treaties, trade agreements, diplomacy, summit meetings, bargaining
Global Level
• North-South Gap, world regions
• Terrorism, world environment, technological change
The End