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IR Concise Notes

International Relations (IR) studies the interactions between states and non-state actors, focusing on power, peace, and global issues. It is crucial for understanding globalization, conflict, and institutions like the UN, as well as global challenges such as climate change and terrorism. The evolution of IR includes various stages from diplomatic history to the impact of globalization and the role of non-state actors in shaping global governance.

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9 views2 pages

IR Concise Notes

International Relations (IR) studies the interactions between states and non-state actors, focusing on power, peace, and global issues. It is crucial for understanding globalization, conflict, and institutions like the UN, as well as global challenges such as climate change and terrorism. The evolution of IR includes various stages from diplomatic history to the impact of globalization and the role of non-state actors in shaping global governance.

Uploaded by

nityamehta4322
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

International Relations (IR)

Study of interactions between states and non-state actors across politics, economics, and security.
Focus: power, peace, cooperation, and global issues.

Importance of IR

Explains globalisation, conflict, diplomacy, trade, and institutions like UN. Helps understand global
challenges like climate change, terrorism, and economic interdependence.

Evolution of IR

1. Diplomatic History (pre-1919) 2. Current Events (1919–1945) 3. Law & Organisation (League of
Nations) 4. Scientific Stage (Cold War, Realism) 5. Post-1991: Globalisation & Critical Theories.

Westphalian System (1648)

Established sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-intervention. Basis of modern nation-state


system.

State Elements

Population, Territory, Government, Sovereignty (internal + external authority).

Sovereignty Principles

Territorial, Legal, Political, Popular sovereignty. Limited by international law and global institutions.

Key Principles

Sovereign Equality, Territorial Integrity, Non-Intervention.

National Power

Ability of a state to influence others. Includes geography, economy, military, population, technology.

Polarity
Bipolar (US vs USSR), Unipolar (US dominance), Multipolar (multiple powers like China, Russia,
India).

Globalisation & R2P

Globalisation reduces state control. R2P allows intervention to prevent atrocities, challenging
sovereignty.

World Governance

Global cooperation via UN, IMF, treaties. Challenges: sovereignty, inequality, lack of enforcement.

State as Primary Actor

States dominate IR through diplomacy, treaties, war, and peace.

Diplomacy Types

Track I (official), Track II (informal), Public diplomacy (soft power), Para diplomacy (subnational
actors).

Non-State Actors (NSAs)

Include NGOs, MNCs, terrorist groups. Influence global politics beyond state control.

NSA Types

Non-violent (NGOs, civil groups) Violent (terrorists, insurgents, criminal networks).

Role of NSAs

Influence policy, provide aid, challenge state authority, shape global governance.

MNCs

Operate globally. Impact economy, environment, labour. Issues: pollution, exploitation, lobbying.

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