Chapter 11: POLITICAL CHALLENGES AND CHANGES

What is devolution?

1. The transfer of power from a central government to regional governments within a state

2. Processes that challenge a state's sovereignty.

What are some factors that can challenge state sovereignty and lead to devolution?

Physical geography, ethnic separatism, ethnic cleansing/terrorism, irredentism, economic/social problems.

How can physical geography contribute to devolution?

Distance decay (friction of distance), fragmented geography (islands, mountains) can hinder unity and control. Example: The Philippines' 7,600+ islands.

What is ethnic separatism?

When a subgroup within a state identifies more strongly with their ethnicity than with the state. Example: The Basques in Spain.

What is ethnic cleansing?

The forced removal or extermination of an ethnic group. Example: The Rohingya in Myanmar.

What is irredentism?

A state's attempt to claim territory in a neighboring state based on shared ethnicity or history.

How can economic and social divisions lead to devolution?

Disparities in wealth, resource allocation, discrimination, social inequalities. Example: Western Canada's resource revenue vs. Eastern Canada.

How do states respond to devolutionary forces?

Granting autonomy, shifting governance (unitary to federal), dividing the state. Example: Canada's response to Yukon and Quebec demands.

What can happen if devolutionary forces are not addressed?

State disintegration. Example: The breakup of the Soviet Union.

What is a supranational organization?

An alliance of three or more states working together for common goals.

Why do states join supranational organizations?

Benefits (economic, military, collaboration), avoiding isolation.

Examples of supranational organizations?

UN, EU, NATO, ASEAN, African Union, Arctic Council.

Economic benefits of supranationalism?

Increased trade, bargaining power, economies of scale. Example: ASEAN's collective GDP.

What are economies of scale?

Cost advantages from increased production.

How does supranationalism enhance military power?

Collective security agreements (e.g., NATO).

Other benefits of supranationalism?

Collaboration, ease of travel (e.g., EU).

Drawbacks of supranationalism?

Loss of sovereignty, potential conflict with nationalism.

What is a centripetal force?

A force that unites a group of people.

What is a centrifugal force?

A force that divides a group of people.

Examples of centripetal forces?

Shared language, religion, ethnicity, history, national identity, just legal system, infrastructure. Example: Hinduism in Nepal.

Examples of centrifugal forces?

Competing nationalities, economic inequality, discrimination, weak infrastructure. Example: Separatist movements in Northern Italy.

What is ethnonationalism?

Nationalism based on shared ethnicity, often excluding minorities.

Why can ethnonationalism be a centrifugal force?

It excludes those who don't fit the ethnic, religious, or linguistic criteria.

What is a failed state?

A state unable to provide basic services or maintain control.

Characteristics of a failed state?

Lack of security, unjust legal system, limited political freedom, human rights abuses, poor access to healthcare, education, transportation.