Delegates recently represented India at the 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) virtually hosted by Thailand.
Key highlights of 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials’ Meeting
The discussions focused on priority areas including sustainable development, regional connectivity, security, and people-to-people exchanges.
Several documents, such as Plans of Action for cooperation, new cooperation mechanisms, and collaboration with external partners, were finalized.
The meeting also discussed issues related to the upcoming 6th BIMSTEC Summit.
About BIMSTEC
The BIMSTEC is a regional organization with 7 member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Established in 1997, its primary aim is to foster multifaceted technical and economic cooperation among the countries bordering the Bay of Bengal.
The region encompasses a population of around 1.5 billion and has a combined GDP of over USD 3.8 trillion.
Origin:
Founded in 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration, the organization initially included four member nations under the name BIST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand Economic Cooperation).
Later in 1997, Myanmar joined, prompting a renaming to BIMST-EC.
Nepal and Bhutan were admitted in 2004, leading to the current name: Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
Key Features
Establishes BIMSTEC as a legal entity, enabling it to engage more formally with other international organizations.
Outlines objectives focused on building trust and friendly relations among member states and promoting economic development and social progress in the Bay of Bengal region.
Defines a clear framework for regular meetings at various levels: the Summit, Ministerial, and Senior Officials’ levels.
Allows for the possibility of new members and observer states, ensuring future growth and broader cooperation.
Streamlines cooperation into 7 sectors, each led by one member state:
Bangladesh: Trade, investment, and development
Bhutan: Environment and climate change
India: Security (including energy)
Myanmar: Agriculture and food security
Nepal: People-to-people contacts
Sri Lanka: Science, technology, and innovation
Thailand: Connectivity
Significance of BIMSTEC for Indo-Pacific Goals
Maritime Connectivity: BIMSTEC unites Bay of Bengal states, strengthening maritime ties that are crucial for an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
Regional Bridge: It links South Asia and Southeast Asia, aligning closely with India’s “Act East” policy and fostering broader Indo-Pacific integration.
Security Cooperation: Focus on collaborative efforts in maritime security (e.g., counter-piracy, disaster management) supports a stable and secure Indo-Pacific.
Economic Integration: By promoting trade, investment, and infrastructure development, BIMSTEC bolsters economic growth and connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region.
Synergy with Other Frameworks: Its emphasis on connectivity, security, and economic cooperation complements initiatives such as ASEAN and the Indian Ocean Rim Association, collectively advancing Indo-Pacific objectives.
PYQ:
[2022] Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation?
President Yoon Suk Yeol’s decision to declare martial law caused a nationwide crisis, leading to an impeachment and a long legal fight in South Korea’s Constitutional Court.
What Led to President Yoon Suk Yeol’s Declaration of Martial Law?
Political Frustration: Facing increasing opposition and a loss of support from the National Assembly after the April 2024 elections, Yoon declared martial law on December 3, 2024, in a desperate attempt to maintain control amid growing dissent against his administration’s policies and allegations of corruption involving his wife.
Opposition Assertiveness: The opposition parties gained significant power in the National Assembly, securing 192 out of 300 seats. Their assertive stance against Yoon’s government exacerbated tensions, prompting him to take extreme measures to suppress dissent.
Failed Military Response: Despite sending military and police forces to various locations, including the National Assembly, their reluctance to act against peaceful protests highlighted the lack of support for Yoon’s decision. The National Assembly members voted overwhelmingly against martial law, leading to its withdrawal shortly after its declaration.
How Has the Political Landscape Changed Following the Impeachment Proceedings?
Increased Polarization: The impeachment motion against Yoon, which passed with 204 votes in favour on December 14, 2024, reflects deepening political polarization in South Korea.
The ruling People Power Party (PPP) faced internal conflict over how to respond to the impeachment, indicating fractures within conservative ranks.
Opposition Power Dynamics: The opposition has gained momentum and confidence following the successful impeachment motion. This shift has allowed them to challenge Yoon’s policies more aggressively and seek accountability for alleged corruption within his administration.
Public Sentiment: Yoon’s popularity has plummeted due to his handling of both domestic and foreign policies, as well as controversies surrounding his wife. This decline has strengthened the opposition’s position and increased public demand for accountability.
What are the potential implications of this crisis for South Korea’s democratic institutions?
Erosion of Democratic Norms: The use of martial law and aggressive tactics against political opponents raises concerns about the erosion of democratic norms in South Korea. Such actions could set a precedent for future administrations to bypass democratic processes in times of political strife.
Judicial Independence at Stake: The ongoing impeachment proceedings will be reviewed by the Constitutional Court, which may face pressure from public opinion and political factions. The outcome could influence perceptions of judicial independence and integrity within South Korea’s legal system.
Long-Term Stability Concerns: If political leaders continue to engage in vendetta politics and prioritize partisan interests over national unity, it could undermine public trust in democratic institutions. This instability may hinder effective governance and exacerbate societal divisions.
What are the challenges in India that could prevent a South Korea-like scenario?
Diverse Federal Structure: India’s federal system and strong regional governments provide multiple centers of power, reducing the likelihood of concentrated national-level crises.
Robust Democratic Institutions: A vibrant judiciary, free press, and active civil society act as checks against potential abuses of power.
Electoral Accountability: Regular elections at various levels ensure political leaders remain answerable to the public, mitigating prolonged governance failures.
Cultural and Political Pluralism: India’s diversity in culture, language, and political ideologies discourages the kind of national consensus required for large-scale systemic crises like in South Korea.
What should India do to prevent this type of situation? (Way forward)
Strengthen Democratic Institutions: India should prioritize the independence and resilience of democratic institutions, including the judiciary, Election Commission, and a free press, to ensure checks and balances against potential overreach by any government.
Promote Political Accountability and Transparency: Encourage bipartisan dialogue and accountability mechanisms to address corruption and governance issues, preventing political polarization and maintaining public trust in democratic processes.
Mains question for practice:
Q Analyze the factors that led to the declaration of martial law by President Yoon Suk Yeol in South Korea and discuss its implications for democratic institutions. What lessons can India draw from this crisis to strengthen its own democratic framework? (250 words) 15M
Q) ‘India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.’ Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement. (UPSC CSE 2022)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have focused on ‘India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka’ (in 2022), and ‘how domestic factors influence foreign policy between India and Srilanka’ (in 2013).
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s recent visit to India drew significant attention, marking his first foreign trip since taking office. The visit highlighted the shift in Sri Lanka’s political landscape, with the National People’s Power’s surprising electoral success. India’s priorities have also evolved, focusing on countering China’s influence in the region.
Today’s editorial highlights the importance of Sri Lanka for India. This content can be used to substantiate the challenges and significance due to Srilanka for India in UPSC IAS mains paper GS2.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The joint statement released by New Delhi and Colombo during the Sri Lankan President’s visit to India shows what is currently important to both countries.
What is the joint statement released by New Delhi and Colombo during the Sri Lankan President’s visit?
Bilateral Cooperation: The statement emphasizes the deep-rooted cultural ties and geographical proximity that underpin the India-Sri Lanka partnership.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in areas such as parliamentary exchanges, development cooperation, debt restructuring, energy cooperation, trade and investment, and strategic defense engagement.
Economic Support and Stability: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake expressed gratitude for India’s support during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, highlighting India’s provision of nearly USD 4 billion in aid.
The leaders agreed on an investment-based approach to assist Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and growth, while also addressing shared security interests in the Indian Ocean Region
What is 13th Amandment?
The 13th Amendment to the Constitution of Sri Lanka, passed in 1987, was introduced as part of the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord signed between Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sri Lankan President J.R. Jayewardene.
Its primary aim was to provide a framework for the devolution of power to provincial councils, thereby addressing the demands for greater autonomy from the Tamil minority, particularly in the Northern and Eastern provinces.
What is the current status of the 13th Amendment’s implementation in Srilanka?
Stagnation in Implementation: The 13th Amendment, which was designed to provide power devolution to provincial councils in Sri Lanka, has seen little progress in its implementation.
The recent joint statement from India and Sri Lanka did not address the amendment or the political solutions for Tamil aspirations, highlighting a lack of commitment from the current government led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Political Hesitance: The Dissanayake administration has avoided explicitly referencing the 13th Amendment due to its association with “Indian imposition,” which is viewed negatively by the Sinhala-Buddhist majority. Instead, the government’s focus has shifted towards broader promises of provincial council elections and constitutional reforms without a clear plan for implementing the amendment.
How do historical grievances impact contemporary Tamil-Sinhala relations?
Historical Conflict: Historical grievances from the civil war and ongoing issues related to Tamil rights significantly affect Tamil-Sinhala relations. The Tamil community continues to seek justice for wartime atrocities and greater political agency, while many in the Sinhala majority often view discussions about devolution and federalism with scepticism.
Political Dynamics: The recent electoral success of the National People’s Power (NPP) signifies a shift in Tamil political engagement, as Tamils have shown support for a party that traditionally opposed Indian intervention.
However, this shift raises concerns about how effectively the NPP will address Tamil issues without alienating its base among Sinhala nationalists.
What are the prospects for genuine reconciliation and autonomy for Tamils in Sri Lanka?
Need for Clarity: There is an urgent need for the NPP to clarify its position on Tamil rights and reconciliation. While the party’s manifesto promises provincial council elections and constitutional reforms, it lacks a concrete strategy for addressing historical grievances or ensuring autonomy for Tamils.
Challenges Ahead: Genuine reconciliation remains uncertain as long as past grievances are not adequately addressed. The Tamil polity must engage more directly with its constituents rather than relying on international actors.
The NPP’s ability to foster inter-ethnic peace will depend on its willingness to confront historical failures and implement meaningful policies that reflect the aspirations of all communities in Sri Lanka.
Way forward:
Clear Political Vision: The NPP should outline a concrete plan for addressing Tamil rights, implementing the 13th Amendment, and ensuring provincial autonomy, while balancing the demands of both Tamil and Sinhala communities.
Inclusive Dialogue: Engage in direct, inclusive dialogue with all ethnic groups, focusing on national reconciliation and addressing past grievances, to foster a durable peace and meaningful political solution for all communities in Sri Lanka.
By the end of 2023, China emerged as the leading debt collector, holding over 25% of the world’s bilateral external debt.
Two decades ago, Japan, followed by Germany, France, the United States, and the United Kingdom, dominated global lending, with China rarely extending loans.
What is China’s ‘Debt Trap Policy’?
China’s “Debt Trap Policy” (also known as the ‘slicing strategy’) refers to a strategy where it provides excessive loans to developing countries, often for large infrastructure projects, which these nations struggle to repay. This policy is primarily associated with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
When countries default on their loans, they may be forced to cede control of critical assets to China, effectively creating a debt-for-equity swap.
Notable examples include Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port, which was leased to China for 99 years after the country failed to meet repayment obligations.
Which countries have been affected by China’s debt trap policy?
Sri Lanka: Struggled with $8 billion in debt, leading to the leasing of the Hambantota port.
Pakistan: Owes approximately $22 billion, close to 60% of its bilateral debt.
Laos: Faces significant economic challenges with $6 billion owed to China, over 75% of its bilateral debt.
Angola: Owes $17 billion, about 58% of its external debt. These countries often find themselves in financial distress due to high interest rates and the burden of debt repayments consuming essential public resources.
How are developing countries managing their debt to China?
Developing countries are employing various strategies to manage their debts to China:
Debt Restructuring: Nations like Zambia are negotiating terms to restructure their debts in light of economic difficulties.
Attracting Investment: Countries are seeking new foreign investments or loans from other nations or institutions to alleviate their financial burdens.
Engaging in Bilateral Talks: Some nations are attempting to engage China in discussions aimed at debt forgiveness or more favourable repayment terms. However, China’s reluctance to forgive debt complicates these negotiations.
What are the implications of this debt burden on regional and global geopolitics?
The implications of China’s debt policies extend beyond economics into geopolitics:
Increased Influence: By becoming the largest creditor, China gains substantial leverage over debtor nations, potentially influencing their foreign policy and strategic decisions. This is particularly evident in South Asia and Africa, where countries may align more closely with Chinese interests due to their indebtedness.
Economic Dependency: Nations heavily reliant on Chinese loans risk becoming economically dependent on China, which can limit their sovereignty and decision-making capabilities. This dependency can also lead to geopolitical tensions with other powers, such as India or the United States.
Potential Instability: The growing debt burden could lead to financial crises in several nations, resulting in political instability. The inability of countries like Sri Lanka and Pakistan to manage their debts raises concerns about broader regional stability and economic health.
What are the challenges to India due to this policy?
Rising Chinese Influence and Strategic Risks: China’s lending practices are expanding its influence in South Asia, particularly in nations like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, undermining India’s role as a regional leader.
This includes control over strategic assets such as Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port and infrastructure under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in the POK region, which poses direct security threats to India.
Geopolitical and Economic Competition: China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, coupled with favorable loan terms, challenges India’s investments and diplomatic efforts.
Regional Instability and Spillover Effects: Debt-driven economic instability in countries like Sri Lanka results in political unrest and humanitarian crises, which can spill over into India, necessitating responses to refugee inflows and potential destabilization in the region.
Way forward:
Strengthening Regional Partnerships: India should enhance economic and strategic cooperation with neighbouring countries through competitive financing, capacity-building initiatives, and infrastructure projects under transparent terms to counter China’s influence and foster regional stability.
Promoting Multilateral Solutions: India can collaborate with global institutions like the IMF, World Bank, and Quad partners to offer alternative financial support.
Mains PYQ:
Q The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (UPSC IAS/2018)
Indian and Nicaragua has signed an umbrella agreement on Quick Impact Projects (QIPs).
The agreement aims at socio-economic development by implementing QIPs in Nicaragua, which will directly benefit local communities.
About Nicaragua: Quick Facts
Nicaragua is located in Central America, bordered by Honduras to the north, Costa Rica to the south, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.
The capital of Nicaragua is Managua; official language spoken in Nicaragua is Spanish; currency is the Nicaraguan córdoba (NIO).
Nicaragua operates as a unitary presidential republic.
The country’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, including coffee, bananas, and sugar, along with manufacturing and mining.
Geographical Features:
Nicaragua’s topography is predominantly mountainous in the interior, with lowland plains along its Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
The country is home to over 20 volcanoes, with active ones such as Masaya and San Cristóbal.
The largest lake in Nicaragua is Lake Cocibolca, also known as Lake Nicaragua, which is one of the largest lakes in Latin America.
Nicaragua is also known for its significant rivers, including the San Juan River, which flows into the Caribbean Sea, and the Río Coco, the longest river in Central America.
India- Nicaragua Relations:
Diplomatic relations were established in March 1983, and the Indian Embassy in Panama is concurrently accredited to Nicaragua.
Nicaragua’s embassy in India was closed in 1990, and currently, Nicaragua is represented in India through its Embassy in Tokyo.
What are Quick Impact Projects (QIPs)?
QIPs are initiatives designed to deliver rapid and visible benefits to local communities, especially in areas with critical infrastructure and social development needs.
These projects are often implemented in a short time frame.
They are focused on addressing urgent and immediate issues that can have a significant positive impact on the community.
The term is commonly used by organizations like the UNHCR to describe such initiatives in crisis or displacement situations.
Examples of QIPs may include:
Building roads in remote areas to improve connectivity.
Establishing community centers that serve as hubs for local services.
Improving healthcare facilities with basic medical equipment and services.
Upgrading educational infrastructure by building schools or providing learning materials.
A stocktake visit for the India-AustraliaComprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) recently concluded in New Delhi.
Key Takeaways from the Meet
The discussions covered a wide range of critical aspects of the CECA, including:
Trade in goods and services
Mobility and agri-tech cooperation
Market access modalities that align with India’s food security objectives.
Both sides emphasized their shared commitment to ensuring that the CECA produces meaningful benefits and delivers a balanced outcome for both nations.
The discussions have opened up pathways for enhanced collaboration in areas such as agricultural innovation, market access, and supply chain resilience.
About India-Australia CCEA Negotiations:
CECA is a comprehensive trade agreement between India and Australia.
More comprehensive than the earlier India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) , which is a limited trade agreement in force since December 2022.
Negotiations for CECA began in May 2011, suspended in 2016, and re-launched in 2021 after concluding the ECTA.
So far 10 rounds of negotiations have taken place.
Key Features of CECA:
Covers goods, services, digital trade, government procurement, and Rules of Origin/Product-Specific Rules Schedule.
New areas: competition policy, MSMEs, innovation, agri-tech, critical minerals, sports.
India-AU Trade Statistics:
2023-24:
India’s imports from Australia fell by 15% to USD 16.15 billion.
India’s exports to Australia rose by 14.23% to USD 7.94 billion.
Australia is India’s 13th largest export destination and 14th largest import source.
PYQ:
[2017] ‘Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA)’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of negotiations held between India and:
(a) European Union
(b) Gulf Cooperation Council
(c) Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development
(d) Shanghai Cooperation Organization
Q) “If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa’s.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in Africa in recent years. (UPSC CSE 2021)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have focused on ‘India’s influence in Africa (2021), and anti-colonial struggles in West Africa were led by the new elite of Western-educated Africans(in 2016).
The Prime Minister’s visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana from November 16-21, 2024, was carefully planned to achieve multiple goals. This trip showcased India’s efforts in diplomacy across Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, focusing on important discussions about bilateral, regional, and global issues. While the main reason for the visit was to attend the G-20 summit in Brazil, dedicating time to Nigeria and Guyana added more value to this journey. The trip reflects India’s key foreign policy priorities.
Today’s editorial highlights the what are the outcomes of the recent visits of the PM of India to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana provides valuable insights into India’s prevailing foreign policy priorities.
Outcomes of the recent visit of the Indian PM to Nigeria in West Africa
Significance of the Visit: This was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, underscoring the importance of strengthening bilateral ties. The visit was at the invitation of the Nigerian President, emphasizing a shared belief in democracy and pluralism.
Bilateral Cooperation: Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in sectors such as trade, investment, education, energy, health, and culture.
New areas for collaboration included agriculture, urban transportation, renewable energy, and digital transformation.
Recognition and Awards: The Nigerian government conferred a top national award on the Indian leader for contributions to bilateral relations, signalling a strong appreciation for India’s expanding influence in Africa.
Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism and extremism together. However, only three memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed, likely due to bureaucratic delays.
Recently visit of PM to Brazil for the G20 summit:
Summit Overview: Hosted in Rio de Janeiro on November 18-19, the G-20 Summit aimed to incorporate perspectives of the Global South into its decision-making processes. Key priorities included social inclusion, sustainable development, and reforming global governance institutions.
Outcomes: The summit led to the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty and the adoption of a roadmap for more effective multilateral development banks. However, progress on climate finance remained limited.
Bilateral Engagements: The Indian delegation engaged with several world leaders during the summit, including discussions with U.S. and European leaders, as well as a meeting with the Chinese Foreign Minister to advance bilateral relations.
Last visit of PM to Guyana: The Wrap-Up
Historical Significance: The visit to Guyana marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister since 1968, underscoring India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Caribbean nations, particularly given that 40% of Guyana’s population is of Indian origin.
Cooperation Agreements: Ten MoUs were signed across various sectors, including energy, defence, urban development, digital collaboration, education, and food security, reflecting a robust bilateral cooperation program.
India-CARICOM Summit: During the visit, the Indian leader co-chaired the second India-CARICOM Summit in Georgetown, proposing seven pillars for enhanced cooperation that align with regional priorities.
Importance of Carrabian for India
Strategic Trade Gateway: The Caribbean serves as a crucial gateway to North and South American markets, making it an important trade partner for India.
Strengthening ties with CARICOM nations can facilitate access to these markets, enhancing India’s economic outreach and trade opportunities in the region.
Energy Security and Resource Collaboration: The Caribbean, particularly nations like Guyana, is rich in hydrocarbons and other natural resources.
India’s engagement in the region aims to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on traditional suppliers.
Cultural and Historical Ties: The Caribbean has a significant Indian diaspora, providing a strong foundation for cultural exchange and bilateral relations.
Way forward:
Strengthen Regional Partnerships: Build on existing MoUs by establishing follow-up mechanisms to ensure timely implementation of agreements across sectors like energy, education, and digital transformation. Enhance India’s role in regional forums like CARICOM and AU to solidify partnerships.
Leverage Cultural and Economic Ties: Utilize India’s cultural connections, especially in Guyana and Nigeria, to foster people-to-people links while expanding trade and investment in renewable energy, agriculture, and technology to deepen economic cooperation.
Despite China’s increasing involvement in financing and infrastructure development, India continues to hold a significant position as one of Nigeria’s key partners in West Africa.
What are the strategic objectives of India in West Africa?
Strengthening Bilateral Relations: India aims to enhance its strategic partnership with Nigeria, which is pivotal as Nigeria is both the largest economy and democracy in Africa. This partnership is expected to extend beyond Nigeria, influencing broader regional dynamics in West Africa.
Focus on Security Cooperation: Given the challenges of terrorism, piracy, and drug trafficking in Nigeria, India seeks to bolster security cooperation. This includes defence collaboration and joint efforts in counterterrorism operations against groups like Boko Haram.
Development Partnerships: India positions itself as a development partner by providing concessional loans and capacity-building programs, demonstrating a commitment to supporting Nigeria’s socio-economic growth.
Promotion of Global South Aspirations: Both India and Nigeria share common goals as leaders of the Global South, aiming to amplify their voices in international forums like the UN Security Council.
How does India plan to enhance its economic ties with West African countries?
Diversifying Trade Relations: India plans to revitalize trade with Nigeria, which has seen a decline recently. Efforts include negotiating trade agreements such as the Economic Cooperation Agreement (ECA) and the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) to facilitate investment and trade.
Sectoral Collaboration: The focus areas for economic collaboration include defence, energy, technology, health, and education. India’s PM discussions with the President of Nigeria emphasized leveraging India’s expertise in these sectors to foster mutual growth.
Infrastructure Development: India aims to support infrastructure development through concessional loans and technical assistance, building on existing projects that have benefited from Indian investment.
Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges: Enhancing cultural ties and promoting exchanges between citizens are also part of India’s strategy to strengthen bilateral relations, fostering goodwill and mutual understanding.
What challenges does India face in its engagement with West Africa?
Geopolitical Competition: India’s engagement is challenged by China’s significant presence in Nigeria, where Chinese companies dominate various sectors including infrastructure and telecommunications. This competition complicates India’s efforts to establish itself as a key partner.
Economic Fluctuations: The decline in trade between India and Nigeria from $14.95 billion in 2021-22 to $7.89 billion in 2023-24 highlights vulnerabilities due to shifting global oil markets and increasing imports from other countries like Russia.
Political Instability: The political landscape in Nigeria can be unpredictable, posing risks for long-term investments and cooperation initiatives that require stability for successful implementation.
Capacity Constraints: While India offers developmental assistance, the effectiveness of these initiatives can be hindered by local capacity constraints in Nigeria, necessitating a tailored approach that considers local needs and capabilities.
Way forward:
Deepen Strategic Collaboration: Strengthen defence and security partnerships, diversify trade, and enhance collaboration in sectors like energy, technology, and health to counter China’s growing influence and foster mutual growth.
Focus on Regional Capacity Building: Expand developmental assistance with tailored initiatives addressing local needs, while supporting Nigeria’s stability through diplomatic engagement and joint Global South aspirations in international forums.
Mains PYQ:
Q Increasing interest of India in Africa has its pros and cons. Critically Examine. (UPSC IAS/2015)
UNGA committee approved a resolution to initiate negotiations for the first-ever treaty to prevent and punish crimes against humanity after Russia withdrew potentially obstructive amendments.
What are the present laws governing the conflict?
The 1949 Geneva Conventions provide the foundational legal framework for humanitarian protection during armed conflicts. These treaties outline the responsibilities of states to protect civilians and ensure humane treatment for non-combatants.
While the International Criminal Court (ICC) addresses war crimes and genocide, there is currently no specific treaty that comprehensively covers crimes against humanity. The ICC recognizes crimes against humanity as acts committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack against civilians, which include offenses such as murder, torture, and sexual violence.
The ICC operates as a court of last resort, intervening only when national courts are unable or unwilling to prosecute these crimes
Why there is a need for a treaty dealing with the Crimes Against Humanity Treaty?
Legal Gaps: Existing international treaties cover war crimes and genocide but do not specifically address crimes against humanity. This lack creates a legal void that allows perpetrators to evade accountability for serious offenses committed against civilian populations.
Increasing Incidence of Crimes: There has been a notable rise in crimes against humanity globally, with reports of such offenses in countries like Ethiopia, Sudan, Ukraine, and Myanmar. A dedicated treaty would facilitate international cooperation in prosecuting these crimes and provide a framework for justice.
Strengthening International Law: A new treaty would reinforce the international justice framework by imposing obligations on states to prevent and punish these crimes, thereby enhancing global standards for human rights protection.
What would be the step towards a Crimes Against Humanity Treaty?
Preparatory Sessions: Scheduled for 2026 and 2027, these sessions will prepare the groundwork for formal discussions on the treaty.
Formal Negotiating Sessions: Three-week sessions are planned for 2028 and 2029 to finalize the treaty’s text.
Broad International Support: The initiative is backed by Mexico, Gambia, and 96 other countries, indicating a strong international commitment to addressing these serious human rights violations
Way forward:
Adopt a Survivor-Centric and Inclusive Approach: Ensure the treaty prioritizes the rights of victims, incorporates survivor input, and mandates comprehensive support mechanisms while maintaining a robust, enforceable legal framework.
Strengthen Global Collaboration: Mobilize international cooperation, with developed nations providing financial and technical assistance, to build national capacities for prosecuting crimes against humanity and preventing impunity.
Mains PYQ:
Q At the international level, the bilateral relations between most nations are governed on the policy of promoting one’s own national interest without any regard for the interest of other nations. This leads to conflicts and tensions between the nations. How can ethical consideration help resolve such tensions? Discuss with specific examples. (UPSC IAS/2015)
The recent G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, featured the official launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty (referred to as “the Alliance”).
What are the primary objectives of the Global Alliance?
Eradication of Hunger and Poverty: The Alliance aims to eliminate hunger and poverty by 2030, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Support for Vulnerable Populations: It focuses on providing targeted assistance to vulnerable groups through various initiatives, including cash transfers and school meal programs.
Resource Mobilization: The initiative emphasizes large-scale resource mobilisation to support its objectives, aiming to reach 500 million people through income distribution programs by 2030.
Who are the key stakeholders involved in this initiative?
The Alliance has 148 founding members, including 82 countries such as India, Brazil, and Bangladesh.
It includes participation from 26 international organizations, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and UNICEF.
Nine financial institutions and 31 philanthropic foundations and non-governmental organizations are also involved in supporting the Alliance’s goals.
How will Alliance function?
The Alliance serves as a platform for countries to share best practices and access technical expertise or financial support from other member nations.
It offers more than 50 evidence-based policy instruments that member countries can utilize to develop their national strategies against hunger and poverty.
Unlike traditional funding bodies, the Alliance does not have an exclusive fund but acts as a matchmaking entity connecting countries in need with donors and technical support providers. Its operational costs are estimated at $2-3 million annually, funded by member contributions.
What challenges does the Global Alliance aim to address in combating hunger and poverty?
Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic has exacerbated issues of hunger and poverty, reversing progress made toward the SDGs. The Alliance aims to counteract these setbacks by fostering international cooperation.
Global Inequalities: It addresses deepening social, racial, and gender inequalities that have been intensified by recent global crises.
Food Insecurity Projections: Current trends suggest that without intervention, millions will continue to live in extreme poverty and hunger by 2030—double the target levels set in the SDGs. The Alliance seeks to reverse these projections through coordinated action.
Conclusion: The Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty aligns with SDGs 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by mobilizing resources, fostering collaboration, and implementing targeted interventions to combat hunger, poverty, and inequalities, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future.
Mains PYQ:
Q Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle? (UPSC IAS/2024)
