Politics Exam Review

1. What is the political spectrum?

• system for classifying political beliefs and ideologies.

• Often visualized as a line or range from left to right.

  • Left: Generally supports government intervention, social equality, and progressive reforms.

  • Right: Typically favors limited government, free-market policies, and traditional values.

Political ideaologu

comprehensive vision that includes a set of aims and ideas that direct one’s goals, expectations and actions. It is a doctrine of philosophy that signifies a way of looking at things or a particular worldview.

Must be shared by a critical mass.

All ideologies aim to create a better society (albeit from very different perspectives!).

Conservatism.2

• believe that traditional values are the building blocks of society (e.g., sees the traditional family as an institution that provides a workable foundation of society).

• Favours strict rules, because “without them, people will make poor decisions”.

Liberalism

• Accepts state intervention when it results in greater political/economic/social equality.

• Liberals support laws/programs that provide opportunities for historically disadvantaged groups.

• Liberals believe people are essentially good, and thus do not require strict rules.

Socialism

• Belief that common or public ownership of resources and means of production leads to a more equal society.

• Calls for the transfer of power to the working class through gradual means.

• Believes that it can co-exist with capitalism. 

• Has formed sustainable governments all over the world

• support a mixed economy (accepts both private businesses and nationalized government services) and broader social welfare systems.

Communism

• Aims to replace private property and a profit-based economy with public ownership and communal control of the major means of production and the natural resources of a society.

• Calls for the transfer of power to the working class through revolutionary means.

• Believes all control must be by the government.

• Pure communism has not been successful anywhere in the world.

Authorianism

• Requires strong government power.

• Rights of the government take precedence over the individual (no freedom of speech).

• No political opposition, no political accountability.

• Military and the police maintain order and ensure obedience.

• Examples of countries:

  • Afghanistan

  • China

  • Cuba

  • Iran

  • Laos 

  • North Korea

Anarchism

• Advocates a society based on voluntary cooperation and free association.

• All forms of enforced authority and control are unnecessary and undesirable.

• Falls on the far left side of the political spectrum. 

Libertarianism

• Believe people should do whatever they want as long as they do not infringe on the rights of others.

• Fall on the far right side of the political spectrum.

• Unlike anarchists, believe that human nature is competitive and not cooperative.

• Favours flat tax rather than a system of graduated taxation.

Hobbes

• first to suggest a secular rationale for dictatorship

• Leviathan--wrote that we were in a constant state of conflict and life was “nasty, brutish and short”

• People will surrender their freedom to an absolute ruler in exchange for peace, security and the rule of law

Locke

Championed constitutionalism 

Argued that human beings have certain natural rights such as life, liberty and property

To protect these rights the people establish an implicit (not plainly expressed) contract with the government

The contract implies that the governed will act a reasonable berings and the government will maintain order

If the government breaks the contract the people have the right to rebel (taking away property without consent)

Rousseau

• social contract was fatally flawed by the duplicity (double dealing) of the wealthy and powerful

• It had to be reshaped to protect the rights, liberty and equality of all.

• He saw this contract as an agreement among the people themselves

• All individuals surrender their natural liberty to one another

• He questioned the institution of private property and assumption that the will of the majority is alway correct (French Revolution was inspired by this idea)

Marx

Developed Marxism, which influenced socialist and communist movements.

Advocated for class struggle, the abolition of capitalism, and the establishment of a classless society.

Tang Taizong

Expanded the Tang Dynasty, strengthening the central government.

Focused on effective administration and merit-based civil service, shaping China's political system.

Plato

Advocated for philosopher-kings and the ideal state in "The Republic."

Influenced the development of political philosophy and ideas of governance.

Aristotle

Wrote about different forms of government, including democracy and monarchy.

His works laid the foundation for political science and ethics in Western thought.

Mary Wollstonecraft

Promoted women's rights and gender equality in "A Vindication of the Rights of Woman."

Influenced feminist political movements and the push for women's suffrage.

According to Machiavelli, why should a prince be feared rather than be loved

His reason behind this decision is that people are less hesitant to offend someone who is loved when compared to someone who is feared because, fear is due to fear of getting punished, which is always a motivator. 

Machiavelli overall views

• Politics Over Religion: Rulers should prioritize the state over religious or moral concerns.

• Contradictory Traits: A prince must balance opposing qualities (e.g., cruel yet merciful, trustworthy yet deceptive).

• Fear Over Love: Fear ensures obedience, while love is unreliable.

• Morality & Power: A ruler must be both moral and immoral as needed to maintain control.

Nationalism

when hate for people other than your own comes first.

Nationalism shapes worldview and can inspire and unite communities. As an extreme ideology – Hitler’s Germany Nazi ultra nationalism – it can also tear communities apart.

Nationalism global impact

• Populism & Protectionism: Countries adopt policies favoring domestic industries (e.g., Trump's "America First").

• Separatist Movements: Push for independence in regions like Catalonia (Spain) or Scotland (UK).

• Border & Immigration Policies: Stricter immigration laws in nationalist-led governments (e.g., Brexit in the UK).

Nationalism in Canada

• Quebec Nationalism: Calls for independence and preservation of French identity (e.g., 1995 referendum).

• Indigenous Nationalism: Movements advocating self-governance and land rights (e.g., Wet’suwet’en pipeline protests).

How can people be a nation without a state

 A people can be a nation without having an independent state, based on shared identity (culture, language, religion, or ideology).

People being a nation without state example

Québécois & Indigenous Communities (Canada):

Both have distinct identities but are part of Canada.

Québec: Strong French culture, history of seeking independence (e.g., 1995 referendum).

Indigenous Nations: Demand for self-governance and land rights.

Impact: Can lead to political tension, calls for autonomy, or sovereignty (e.g., Western Alienation in Alberta).

Nazi germany

Ideology: Nationalism, racial purity, authoritarianism.

Actions: Expansionism (e.g., invasion of other countries), persecution of Jews and minorities (Holocaust), suppression of political dissent.

CCF

Ideology: Democratic socialism, social justice, workers' rights.

Actions: Advocated for universal healthcare, unemployment insurance, and labor rights in Canada.

Liberal

Ideology: Progressive, multilateralism, closer international cooperation.

Actions: Support for NAFTA, climate change agreements.

Conservatism

Ideology: National sovereignty, stronger borders, less emphasis on international cooperation.

Actions: Opposition to international agreements like Kyoto, focus on trade agreements benefiting national interests.

1. Canadian policies towards indigenous people

Ideology: Historically, assimilation and control; modern focus on reconciliation and rights recognition

Actions:

Past: Residential schools, land dispossession, forced relocation.

Recent: Apologies, land settlements, Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

How does conflict affect politics

Shaping public opinion and political agendas

Leading to changes in government policies, laws, or leadership.

Dividing society along ideological, ethnic, or class lines

Prompting military interventions or reforms.

Example of conflict affecting politics

The American Civil War (1861-1865)

Impact: Led to the abolition of slavery (13th Amendment).

Political Change: Strengthened federal government power over states' rights.

Long-term Effect: Shaped U.S. political structure and civil rights movements.

Diplomacy

the art and practice of building and maintaining relationships and conducting negotiations with people using tact and mutual respect.

Diplomacy examples

• It is the handshake between two leaders negotiating a treaty. 

• It is the meal shared between a foreign exchange student and her host family. 

• It is the speech defending human rights abroad. 

• It is the medicine an aid worker provides to a sick child.

Camp David accords

Involved Parties: Egypt and Israel, with U.S. mediation.

Action: Peace agreement ending decades of conflict between Egypt and Israel.

Result: Egypt became the first Arab country to recognize Israel, and Israel withdrew from the Sinai Peninsula.

Good Friday agreement

Involved Parties: UK, Ireland, and Northern Ireland political parties.

Action: Agreement to end decades of conflict in Northern Ireland (The Troubles).

Result: Peace and power-sharing government in Northern Ireland.

Diplomacy skills

Negotiation: Reaching mutually beneficial agreements.

Communication: Clear, respectful, and effective exchange of ideas.

Cultural Awareness: Understanding cultural differences to build trust.

Diplomacy tools

Diplomatic Channels: Formal communication through embassies, consulates, and ambassadors.

Summits and Conferences: High-level meetings to discuss international issues.

Treaties and Agreements: Formalized, legally binding agreements between countries.

Colonialism

policy or practice where a country establishes control over a foreign territory, often by settling its own population there and exploiting local resources.

It involves domination, subjugation, and economic exploitation of the indigenous population.

Typically involves the establishment of political, social, and economic systems that favor the colonizing power.

Political theory of post-colonialism

A political theory that examines the effects of colonialism on former colonies and their relationships with former colonizers.

Focuses on the lasting impacts of colonization on culture, identity, power structures, and economic systems

Critiques the legacy of imperialism, such as exploitation, racism, and inequality, while advocating for self-determination and empowerment of formerly colonized nations.

Emphasizes the need to decolonize knowledge, reclaim indigenous cultures, and address historical injustices

Percentage of world that belonged to a colonial power by 1900

By 1900, about 84% of the world's land area was controlled by colonial powers.

European powers, including Britain, France, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, and the Netherlands, dominated large parts of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific

The British Empire was the largest colonial power, controlling vast territories across multiple continents.

Decolonization

The process through which colonies gain independence from colonial powers, leading to the end of imperial control.

Involves the transfer of political, economic, and social power to indigenous peoples and

Forms of decolonization

Peaceful Negotiation:

Countries gaining independence through diplomatic agreements and negotiations, like India (1947) and many African nations in the 1960s.

Revolutionary Struggles:

Armed resistance and revolutions, such as in Algeria (1954–1962) and Vietnam (1945–1954).

International Pressure:

The influence of international bodies (e.g., the UN) promoting independence through resolutions and diplomatic pressure, as seen with many African nations in the 1960s.

Gradual Transition:

Some countries experienced a slow, gradual shift towards independence through constitutional reforms, such as Canada and Australia, which achieved self-government over time.

Economic indicators of G20 states

Gross Domestic Product (GDP):

Measures the total economic output of a country. G20 nations represent about 85% of global GDP.

Unemployment Rate:

Indicates the percentage of the labor force that is jobless and seeking employment.

Inflation Rate:

Reflects the rate at which prices for goods and services rise, eroding purchasing power.

Public Debt:

The total amount of money a government owes to external and domestic creditors.

1. How might a recession in a country affect international trade or other aspects of international relations?

impact on Trade:

Reduced Demand: A recession typically leads to lower consumer and business demand, reducing imports from other countries.

Trade Barriers: Countries may impose tariffs or protectionist measures to protect domestic industries, affecting global trade flows.

Impact on International Relations:

Strained Relations: Economic challenges may strain diplomatic ties, especially if one country blames another for the recession or trade imbalances.

Focus on Domestic Issues: Governments may prioritize internal economic recovery over foreign relations, leading to a shift away from international cooperation.

1. With the US economy failing, where will Canada look for prosperity?

Diversifying Trade Partners

China: Strengthen trade relations with China, especially in areas like technology, natural resources, and agriculture.

European Union (EU): Expand trade with European countries through agreements like CETA, focusing on sectors like manufacturing, technology, and clean energy.

Emerging Markets: Explore growth opportunities in rapidly developing countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Investment in Technology and Innovation:

Tech Sector Growth: Foster a thriving tech ecosystem, with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and green technology to attract global investment and innovation.

Startups and Research: Increase investment in R&D and support for startups to become leaders in cutting-edge industries.

Renewable Energy:

Green Energy Transition: Capitalize on Canada’s natural resources to lead in clean energy (e.g., wind, solar, hydroelectric power).

Carbon Trading and Innovation: Participate in international climate agreements and markets, turning environmental policies into economic opportunities.

Pay to play

system where individuals or groups provide financial contributions (donations, bribes, etc.) in exchange for political influence, access, or favorable decisions from politicians or decision-makers

Often involves campaign contributions or lobbying efforts that secure preferential treatment for the donor.

Should wealthy donors have access to decision makers

No

Wealthy donors can disproportionately influence decision-making, leading to policies that favor the rich over the general public

It creates an uneven playing field, where only those with financial power can effectively participate in the political process.

Is pay to play democratic

No, it undermines democracy by allowing wealth to dictate political outcomes.

In an ideal democracy, decisions should reflect the will of the majority, not the interests of a wealthy few.

Concerns: "Pay to play" systems can lead to corruption, erode public trust, and prevent equal representation of all citizens, especially marginalized groups.

1. What are Canada’s International connections? give 3 examples of the connections , who that connects us to and why it's important.

United States

Connection: Strong economic, political, and cultural ties. The U.S. is Canada's largest trading partner, with extensive cross-border trade and investment.

Importance: The U.S. is a key ally in defense (through NORAD), trade (through USMCA), and addressing global issues such as climate change and security.

European Union (EU)

Connection: Canada has a comprehensive trade agreement with the EU (CETA), facilitating smoother trade, investment, and cooperation on global matters.

Importance: The EU is an important partner for trade, climate change initiatives, and supporting democratic values and human rights globally.

China

Connection: Trade relationships, especially in natural resources and technology. China is Canada's second-largest trading partner.

Importance: China's growing influence in global markets and its importance as an economic partner offers opportunities for Canadian businesses, though it also presents challenges in balancing trade, human rights, and geopolitical interests.

Israel-Palestine conflict connected to identity

National Identity: For both Israelis and Palestinians, the conflict is deeply tied to their sense of national and cultural identity

Israelis: The creation of Israel in 1948 is central to Jewish identity and the idea of a Jewish homeland.

Palestinians: The displacement during the establishment of Israel and the ongoing struggle for self-determination shapes Palestinian identity, with a focus on sovereignty and the right to return to ancestral lands.

Religious Identity: The conflict also involves significant religious aspects, with Jerusalem being a sacred city for Jews, Muslims, and Christians, adding to the complexity of the identity issues.

Israel-Palestine conflict relation to International relations

Geopolitical Alliances: The conflict affects relations between countries, especially those in the Middle East. For example:

Israel: Strong support from the U.S. and many Western countries, which view Israel as a democratic ally in the region.

Palestinians: Support from many Arab nations, as well as global entities like the UN, which have been critical of Israeli policies in occupied territories.

Rwandan genocide

Identity: The conflict was largely driven by ethnic identity, with tensions between the Hutu and Tutsi populations leading to violence.

International Relations: The lack of intervention from the international community, despite warnings of an impending genocide, highlighted failures in global humanitarian response. The UN and major powers faced criticism for not taking action, which influenced future peacekeeping and intervention policies.

South African apartheid

Identity: The apartheid system was based on racial identity, enforcing segregation and discrimination against non-white South Africans, particularly the black majority.

International Relations: The global community, especially countries in the UN, imposed sanctions and boycotted South Africa to pressure the government to end apartheid. The international support for anti-apartheid movements and sanctions played a crucial role in the eventual dismantling of apartheid

1. Name a song that has a political message. What is its political significance?

"Masters of War" by Bob Dylan is politically significant because:

Critiques War Profiteers: It calls out those who make money from war without facing its consequences.

Anti-War Message: The song protests wars like the Vietnam War, highlighting the suffering caused by conflict.

Raises Awareness: It became an anthem for anti-war movements, criticizing powerful leaders who send others to fight for their gain.

1. Give examples of international responses to domestic policies

South Africa’s Apartheid (1948-1994)

International Response: Many countries and organizations, including the United Nations, imposed sanctions and boycotted South Africa in response to its racial segregation policies.

Impact: Economic sanctions and global pressure helped end apartheid and led to the country’s transition to democracy.

The U.S. Invasion of Iraq (2003)

International Response: Many countries and international organizations, including the UN, opposed the invasion, arguing it was a violation of international law and sovereignty.

Impact: The invasion led to global protests and strained relations with many U.S. allies.

Hinduism

Origins: One of the oldest religions, originating in the Indian subcontinent around 1500 BCE.

Beliefs: A complex system with beliefs in karma, dharma (duty), moksha (liberation), and reincarnation. Worship of many gods, including Brahma (creator), Vishnu (preserver), and Shiva (destroyer).

Sacred Texts: The Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita.

Practices: Meditation, yoga, festivals like Diwali, pilgrimages to holy sites.

Buddhism

Origins: Founded in the 5th-4th century BCE by Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha) in India.

Beliefs: The Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the concept of Nirvana (enlightenment and escape from suffering).

Sacred Texts: Tripitaka (Pali Canon), Mahayana Sutras.

Practices: Meditation, mindfulness, ethical conduct, monastic life.

Islam

Origins: Founded in the 7th century CE by Prophet Muhammad in Mecca, Arabia.

Beliefs: Belief in one God (Allah), the prophets (including Muhammad as the last prophet), the Qur'an as the final revelation, and the Five Pillars of Islam (faith, prayer, charity, fasting, pilgrimage).

Sacred Texts: Qur'an, Hadith.

Practices: Daily prayers (salat), fasting during Ramadan, charity (zakat), pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj)

Confucianism

Origins: Developed in China around the 5th-6th century BCE, based on the teachings of Confucius.

Beliefs: Focuses on moral values, respect for elders, proper behavior, and social harmony. Emphasizes filial piety, the importance of education, and virtuous leadership.

Sacred Texts: The Analects of Confucius.

Practices: Rituals, ancestor worship, maintaining social order, education.

Judaism

Origins: One of the oldest monotheistic religions, originating around 2000 BCE in the Middle East.

Beliefs: Belief in one God (Yahweh), the covenant between God and the Jewish people, and the coming of a Messiah.

Sacred Texts: The Hebrew Bible (Tanakh), including the Torah, the Prophets, and the Writings.

Practices: Observance of the Sabbath, dietary laws (kosher), festivals like Passover and Hanukkah

Catholicism

Origins: A branch of Christianity, tracing its roots to the teachings of Jesus Christ in the 1st century CE, with the Roman Catholic Church as its institutional form.

Beliefs: Belief in one God, the Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit), Jesus Christ as the Savior, the authority of the Pope, and the importance of sacraments

Sacred Texts: The Bible (Old and New Testaments).

Practices: Mass, sacraments (e.g., baptism, Eucharist), prayers, veneration of saints, the Holy Virgin Mary.

Protestantism

Origins: A movement that began in the 16th century CE with figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin, breaking away from the Roman Catholic Church

Beliefs: Belief in salvation through faith alone, the authority of the Bible, and the rejection of certain Catholic traditions and doctrines (e.g., papal authority, indulgences).

Sacred Texts: The Bible (Old and New Testaments).

Practices: Regular worship services, communion, baptism, and an emphasis on personal faith and relationship with God

1. How big of a role does religion play in the lives of Canadians?

Diverse Faiths: Canada has many religions, with Christianity being the largest, but also significant communities of Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and others

Secular Society: Many Canadians identify as non-religious or spiritual, and church attendance has declined.

Cultural Impact: Religion influences holidays and cultural practices, even for non-religious Canadians.

Social Role: Religious groups are active in charity, education, and healthcare but have less influence on politics compared to other countries.

Religious fundamentalism

A strict adherence to specific religious beliefs and practices, often rejecting modernity and emphasizing traditional values. It can sometimes lead to political activism or conflict.

secularism

The principle of separating religion from government and public life, ensuring that policies and laws are not influenced by religious beliefs. 

Separation of church and state

The idea that religious institutions should not interfere with government, and vice versa. This ensures that religious beliefs do not dictate political decisions or public laws.

Religion in politics today

Religion still plays a significant role in many countries, influencing political debates and policies on issues like marriage, abortion, and education. In some nations, religious groups hold political power, while in others, religion influences the public discourse.

Iranian revolution

1979 revolution that overthrew Iran’s monarchy and established an Islamic republic under Ayatollah Khomeini. It led to the fusion of politics and religion in Iran, with the government based on Islamic law (Sharia).

Geopolitics

concerned with the way in which physical location on the globe effects political power

study of how geography, politics, and power interact on a global scale. It involves analyzing the strategic behavior of countries and regions, considering factors like resources, location, and borders, and how these influence international relations, conflicts, and alliances. It often focuses on global power dynamics and the impact of geography on political decisions and global events.

Arctic sovereignty

The geography of the Arctic is crucial as melting ice opens up new shipping routes and access to untapped resources.

Countries like Canada, Russia, and the U.S. are competing for control over the region, leading to disputes over territorial claims and resource rights.

Global warming

Geography affects how countries experience the impacts of global warming, such as rising sea levels, extreme weather, and shifts in agricultural zones.

This creates diplomatic challenges as nations work together to address climate change, but also face conflicts over how to share responsibility and resources for mitigating its effects.

Water as a universal human right

Geography influences access to water, with some countries having abundant freshwater while others face scarcity.

International relations are affected by water disputes (e.g., over shared rivers) and growing pressure for global policies ensuring water access as a basic human right. This can lead to cooperation or conflict between neighboring countries.

Diplomatic recognition

When one country formally acknowledges another as a legitimate state with a government.

Includes sending ambassadors and establishing official relations.

Importance of diplomatic recognition in international relations

Allows a country to join international organizations (e.g., UN).

Enables trade, treaties, and official diplomatic communication.

Adds legitimacy to a government on the world stage.

What does it take to become a country

Settled population

Defined territory

Government

Ability to enter into relations with other states

1. example of the factors that led to the recognition of or lack thereof for a real nation.

Palestine: Some countries (Spain & Norway) recognize it as a state, others (like the U.S. and Canada) do not.

Reason: 

Political tensions, especially with Israel and Western allies.

1. How might diplomatic recognition or the lack of it affect the economic activity of a particular territory or region?

Recognized countries can join trade deals, get foreign aid, and attract investors.

Unrecognized regions (e.g., Northern Cyprus, Taiwan by some) face trade barriers and lack access to global banks or markets.

1. Using the China and Taiwan examples of media , what conclusions can you draw about media bias in international politics?

Chinese media often portrays Taiwan as a rebellious province.

Western media may frame Taiwan as a democratic nation fighting for autonomy.

Shows how the media reflects national political interests and global alliances.

State

Political entity with a government, borders, and sovereignty.

Sovereignty

Full control over a territory's laws and decisions.

Nation

Group of people with shared identity (culture, language).

Diplomacy

Peaceful negotiations between countries.

Foreign policy

A country's strategies for interacting with other states.

Global North & South

Describes economic divide – North = wealthier, industrialized; South = poorer, developing.

Developed/Developing nations

Based on industrialization, economy, standard of living.

First/Third World: Cold War terms; less used today due to outdated connotations.

Do indigenous communities reflect classification of Canada as a first world country

Indigenous communities often lack clean water, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Challenges the idea of Canada being fully “developed” or “First World.”

1. alternative ways could countries be classified economically?

HDI (Human Development Index) – combines income, education, life expectancy.

GNI per capita – overall economic output divided by population.

Inequality-adjusted indicators – account for internal disparities.

Environmental sustainability indexes – measure development in balance with ecology.

Purpose of country classifications

Helps international aid distribution.

Guides economic development policies.

Shapes foreign investment and trade deals.

1. difference between diplomatic pressure and sanctions?

Diplomatic pressure: Verbal/written warnings, international statements, or symbolic actions.

Sanctions: Legal and economic actions—trade bans, visa restrictions, asset freezes—with direct impact.

1. Give an example of how sanctions were used in South Africa.How did it help end apartheid?

Countries cut trade, banned sports/cultural exchanges.

Goal: Isolate apartheid regime.

Result: Economic pressure contributed to the end of apartheid.

Canada role in South Africa

Led by Canada and the Commonwealth in the 1980s.

Included: banning flights, investments, and South African goods.

Aimed to end apartheid and free Nelson Mandela.

Successful – combined international pressure led to reforms and Mandela’s release in 1990.

South Africa sanctions on apartheid

Sanction Details:

In 1985–1986, Canada, under Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, led the Commonwealth in imposing sanctions on South Africa's apartheid regime.

Sanctions included:

Bans on new air links and tourism promotion.

Restrictions on new investments.

Import bans on South African coal, metals, and agricultural goods.

Purpose:

To pressure the South African government to end apartheid.

To support the release of Nelson Mandela and promote racial equality.

Did it work?

Yes, over time.

The sanctions, combined with global pressure, helped force the regime to begin reforms.

Mandela was released in 1990, and apartheid was dismantled in the early 1990s.

Mandela thanked Mulroney and Canada, later addressing Parliament to show appreciation.

Russia post-crimea sanctiosn

Sanction Details:

After Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, Canada joined the U.S. and EU in imposing sanctions.

Measures included:

Asset freezes and travel bans on Russian officials.

Restrictions on trade, especially in energy and financial sectors.

Purpose:

To punish Russia for violating Ukrainian sovereignty.

To pressure Russia into withdrawing from Crimea and halting aggression.

Did it work?

Partially:

Russia has not left Crimea

But the sanctions damaged Russia’s economy and signaled strong international condemnation.

Still ongoing with mixed results.

Covert operations

Secret actions to influence politics abroad.

How could propaganda be used in covert operations

Propaganda use: To sway public opinion, discredit opponents, or support regime change 

Example: Cold War radio broadcasts, fake news to influence enemy morale.

What is the international court of justice and what is Canadas role

UN’s top court for disputes between countries.

Canada supports it financially and legally.

Focus on peaceful resolution of state-to-state issues.

Lubanga case

Arrest warrant issued on 10 Feb, 2006

Charged with war crimes for using child soldiers in armed conflict

Importance:

ICC’s first case

Demonstrated that leaders can be held responsible for human rights abuses

Showed their role in protecting children’s rights in conflict zones

What is an IGO

group made up of two or more countries that work together on common issues like peace, trade, health, the environment, or human rights. 

These organizations are created through formal agreements or treaties between countries and are usually run by representatives from member states.

Example: UN is an IGO made up of 193 countries. 

It works to keep peace, provide humanitarian aid, and solve global problems

Canada is a member and supports peacekeeping missions and international cooperation through the UN.

Canadas role in the UN

Founding Member: in 1945 and played a significant role in drafting the UN Charter.

Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Canadian legal scholar John Peters Humphrey was the principal author of the first draft of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Peacekeeping Leadership:

During the Suez Crisis of 1956, Canadian Secretary of State for External Affairs Lester B. Pearson proposed the concept of UN peacekeeping forces, leading to the establishment of the United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF). 

Pearson's efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957. 

Peacekeeping Contributions:

Between 1948 and 1988, Canada contributed roughly 10% of the total UN peacekeeping forces.

Over 125,000 Canadians have served in UN peace operations, with 130 Canadians losing their lives during these missions. 

What was suez crisis and what was Canadas role

Conflict over the Suez Canal involving Egypt, UK, France, and Israel.

Canada’s Lester B. Pearson proposed a peacekeeping force.

Helped de-escalate conflict—won Pearson a Nobel Peace Prize

NATO

Type: 

Military and defense alliance.

Purpose: 

Collective defense—if one member is attacked, all respond (Article 5).

Founded:

 1949, after WWII to counter Soviet threat.

Members: 

30+ countries (mainly North America & Europe).

Canada’s Role:

Founding member.

Hosts and participates in joint military exercises.

Committed troops to NATO missions (e.g., Afghanistan, Latvia).

Supports alliance's goals of international peace and security.