Global Pandemic — Realism vs Liberalism

When did SARS-CoV-2 emerge?

It originated in China in late 2019 and rapidly spread across the world.

When did the WHO declare a public health emergency?

30 January 2020.

When was COVID-19 declared a global pandemic?

11 March 2020.

How did the pandemic demonstrate global interdependence?

The disease rapidly crossed borders and affected economies, societies and healthcare systems worldwide.

How did the pandemic affect the global economy?

Tourism collapsed, businesses closed, millions of jobs were lost and global supply chains were severely disrupted.

How did the pandemic affect food systems?

Disruption to food supply systems contributed to shortages and price increases.

How many people died globally according to the notes?

Over 7 million people.

How would realists interpret the pandemic?

They would argue that global interdependence increased states' vulnerability and that states ultimately prioritised national interests.

How did global connections increase vulnerability?

They enabled the rapid spread of the disease and misinformation.

How did economic interdependence create problems?

Border closures disrupted international supply chains and caused severe economic disruption.

What does Sweden's response demonstrate from a realist perspective?

States can prioritise their own approaches rather than simply following global governance institutions such as the WHO.

How did states demonstrate self-interest over vaccines?

States prioritised national interests, particularly access to treatments and vaccines.

How did the pandemic affect poorer states and populations?

They experienced higher death rates according to the notes.

What does the realist interpretation suggest about sovereignty?

State sovereignty can act as a barrier to a fully coordinated global response.

How would liberals interpret the pandemic?

They would argue that complex interdependence enabled international cooperation and an effective response.

Which actors cooperated during the pandemic?

IGOs, NGOs, multinational corporations and states.

What was one major achievement of international cooperation during COVID-19?

An effective vaccine was produced within a year.

How did economic interdependence encourage cooperation?

States had incentives to coordinate their response because their economies were interconnected.

What role did the WHO play?

It provided guidance during uncertainty and promoted public-health measures.

How did information spread internationally?

Accurate public-health information and advice could spread rapidly across borders.

What was COVAX?

An international initiative intended to support global access to COVID-19 vaccines.

How does COVAX support the liberal argument?

It demonstrates international cooperation aimed at addressing a global problem collectively.

What was the main barrier to a more effective global response according to the liberal interpretation?

State sovereignty.