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Subject: International Stories of Key Importance

  • Caught in intersections, the Harris multicultural tent

    Why in the News?

    The recent news highlights how Donald Trump has been leveraging Kamala Harris’s multifaceted identity—being Black, Indian-American, and a woman—to create divisions within the Democratic Party’s diverse coalition.

    How does Kamala Harris’s multifaceted identity impact her political positioning?

    • Diverse Representation: Kamala Harris’s identity as a Black woman of Indian descent allows her to connect with multiple voter demographics, potentially uniting diverse groups under a common political agenda.
    • Target for Opposition: Her identity also makes her a target for opponents, like Donald Trump, who may attempt to exploit racial and cultural tensions to drive wedges within the Democratic base.
    • Advocacy for Intersectionality: Harris’s multifaceted identity supports her advocacy for policies that address various forms of discrimination, appealing to progressive voters who value diversity and inclusion.

    Supreme Court Ruling on Minority on June 2023: 

    • Violation of Equal Protection: The Supreme Court’s 6-3 ruling declared Harvard and UNC’s (University of North Carolina) race-based admissions unconstitutional, citing violations of the Equal Protection Clause and racial stereotyping.
    • Minority Representation: The decision is likely to decrease African-American enrollment at top universities while benefiting Asian-American admissions, raising concerns about equity.
      • The ruling could extend beyond higher education, affecting K-12 schooling and race-related employment practices under Title VII.
    K-12 education refers to the comprehensive educational system that spans from kindergarten (K) through 12th grade. This structure is designed to provide a standardized framework for formal education, primarily in the United States, Canada, and several other countries.

    What are the implications of the SC’s ruling on affirmative action for Minority Groups?

    • Shift in Demographics: The Supreme Court’s ruling, which prohibits race-based considerations in college admissions, has resulted in a significant decrease in African-American representation at prestigious universities while benefiting Asian-American admissions.
    • Heightened Tensions: The ruling exacerbates existing tensions between different minority groups, particularly between African Americans and Asian-Americans, as the latter may perceive an advantage in admissions due to the ruling, creating conflict over perceived equity in opportunities.
    • Reevaluation of Policies: Minority groups may need to reassess their strategies for achieving representation and equity in educational and professional fields in light of changing admission policies and their implications on access.

    How do intersectional conflicts among minority groups manifest in contemporary politics?

    • Competing Interests: Conflicts arise when minority groups, such as African-Americans and Asian-Americans, have differing views on policies like affirmative action, leading to a fragmented approach to addressing discrimination and inequality.
    • Political Polarization: Issues like immigration and welfare policies create further divisions, as different groups may align with political parties based on how they perceive their interests are being served or threatened.
    • Influence on Electoral Dynamics: The intersections of race, ethnicity, and social issues complicate the electoral landscape, as political candidates and parties navigate these dynamics to appeal to various voting blocs, often leading to strategic alignments or divisions within the broader minority coalition.

    Conclusion: Kamala Harris’s identity influences U.S. politics, highlighting racial dynamics and intersectional conflicts. The Supreme Court’s affirmative action ruling fuels tensions among minority groups, while the election’s outcome could reshape U.S.-India relations and diaspora engagement policies.

  • [25th October 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The Gaza war and the Global South’s ‘interventions’

    PYQ Relevance:

    [2018] India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss.
    [2022] How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics?Prelims:
    [2013]  The term “two-state solution” is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of: 
    (a) China 
    (b) Israel 
    (c) Iraq 
    (d) Yemen

    Mentor’s Comment:  Israel’s war in Gaza, launched in response to the October 7 Hamas attacks, once again took center stage at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) this week. The UN General Assembly brought up the issue of illegal Israeli settlements at the court, with public hearings set to conclude on February 26. 

    The hearings highlighted a deeper divide, as Western countries largely defended Israel’s airstrikes on Gaza as an act of “self-defense,” while many Global South nations backed South Africa’s push for the ICJ to charge Israel with “war crimes” for its actions. The hearings took place against the backdrop of a major dispute between Brazil and Israel.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    • Most of the speakers at the hearings were from the Global South, with Brazil and South Africa taking the lead in the International Court of Justice (ICJ). 
    • All permanent members of the UN Security Council submitted comments, though Israel did not take part. India did not speak at the hearings, but its neighbors, Pakistan and Bangladesh, strongly criticized Israel’s actions.

    Global South View on Israel- Palestine Conflict: 

    • Fragmented Global South Response: The Global South has not presented a unified stance toward the Israel-Palestine conflict. While some countries have sought legal actions against Israel, others have taken more cautious approaches, focused on diplomacy and ceasefire calls.
    • South Africa’s Legal Action: Driven by its own history of apartheid, South Africa took Israel to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in December 2023, seeking a warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
    • Divergence Within BRICS: China and India, the two biggest powers within the Global South construct, have taken divergent positions based on their national interests rather than building consensus within newer multilateral formats like BRICS.
    • The Role of BRICS Expansion: The BRICS group recently expanded, a move supported by China but not particularly favored by India, illustrating differing priorities even within major Global South frameworks.

    China’s View on Israel- Palestine Conflict:

    • China’s Support for Palestinian Sovereignty: China aligns its position with Arab interests, supporting Palestinian sovereignty from a decolonization perspective. In July 2024, it hosted a conference aimed at unifying various Palestinian factions.
    • China’s Strategic Calculations: China refrained from condemning Hamas after the October 2023 attacks, aiming to keep its mediation options open, especially after the high-profile Iran-Saudi Arabia mediation. However, recent developments, including the killings of Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar, have disrupted these efforts.
    • China’s Use of Multilateral Forums: China seeks to leverage forums like BRICS to promote the Global South narrative in its favor. The expansion of BRICS and Palestine’s interest in joining reflect China’s strategy to broaden its influence.

    India’s View on  Israel- Palestine Conflict:

    • India’s Balanced Approach: India maintains a consistent and balanced position, supporting both Israel’s counter-terrorism efforts and the Palestinian cause. Its stance includes a two-state solution and recognition of Palestine since 1988.
    • Counter-Terrorism Focus: India’s stance on the conflict focuses on counter-terrorism, reflecting its own experiences with cross-border terrorism, similar to Israel’s challenges. The 2011 release of Sinwar by Israel is comparable to India’s release of Masood Azhar in 1999.

    The disunity in the Global South affects India’s interests in several ways:

    • Limits Diplomatic Leverage: The lack of a unified stance weakens India’s ability to push for collective action on issues like terrorism or multilateral reforms.
    • Challenges in BRICS Consensus: Diverging views within BRICS complicate India’s efforts to shape the group’s agenda in line with its own interests, such as counter-terrorism and economic cooperation.
    • Reduces Influence in West Asia: Fragmented approaches hinder India’s ability to play a significant mediating role in the Israel-Palestine conflict or other regional matters.
    • Complicates Strategic Alignments: Disunity forces India to navigate complex diplomatic relationships individually, rather than benefiting from coordinated Global South support.
    • Dilutes Global South’s Voice: The lack of coherence limits India’s capacity to effectively champion developing countries’ concerns on global platforms like the UN.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Diplomatic Alliances: India should work on building stronger bilateral and regional partnerships to create support for its positions within the Global South, focusing on areas of mutual interest such as counter-terrorism and economic development.
    • Leverage Multilateral Platforms Strategically: India can actively shape the agenda in forums like BRICS by promoting consensus on common issues, such as peace initiatives and reforming global governance, to enhance its influence and the collective voice of the Global South.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-gaza-war-and-the-global-souths-interventions/article68792576.ece

  • On sanctions and shadow fleets

    Why in the News?

    During coverage of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, many Western media outlets have referred to tanker ships transporting Russian crude oil or oil products to other countries as a “shadow fleet.”

    What is shadow fleet?

    • The “shadow fleet” refers to tanker ships transporting oil from sanctioned countries, using tactics like flag hopping, complex ownership structures, and cargo transfers at sea to evade detection and sanctions.

    What are Flags of Convenience (FoCs)?

    • Flags of Convenience (FoCs) refer to the practice of registering a ship in a country other than that of the ship’s owner. Ships then fly the flag of the country where they are registered, known as the “flag state.”
    • Initially, FoCs emerged as a way for shipowners to minimize taxes and avoid stringent regulations. They allow shipowners to benefit from favorable regulatory environments, such as lower taxes, less stringent safety requirements, and more lenient labor laws.
    • Examples: Common FoCs include Panama, Liberia, and the Marshall Islands. These nations have minimal regulations, making it easier for ships to operate with reduced scrutiny.

    How do corporations with large fleets obscure ownership and origin of cargo? (Challenges to find the origin country of the ship)

    • Complex Ownership Structures: Corporations often create complex ownership arrangements to hide the true identity of shipowners. This may involve setting up multiple shell companies, where each company owns only one or two ships. The use of offshore accounts and subsidiaries further adds to the opacity.
    • Frequent Changes in Ship Registration and Management: Ships frequently switch their flag state (known as “flag hopping”) to avoid detection and regulatory compliance.
    • Renaming Vessels: Ships involved in activities that could trigger sanctions often change their names to avoid being traced back to previous sanctioned activities.
    • Using FoCs and Non-Compliant Jurisdictions: Ships may be registered in countries that are not signatories to international regulatory frameworks, such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
      • For instance, Eswatini has emerged as a FoC because it does not follow IMO guidelines, allowing for less regulatory oversight.

    Why has India been accused of hosting a shadow fleet?

    • Increased Russian Oil Shipments: Indian firms and Dubai-based entities with Indian ties have been involved in transporting Russian oil, raising suspicions of sanction evasion.
    • Certification by Indian Register of Shipping (IRS): The IRS certified more ships linked to Russian oil post-sanctions, which some viewed as supporting “shadow fleet” operations.
    • Use of Flags of Convenience: Ships connected to India often registered under foreign flags, obscuring their ownership and the origin of their cargo to bypass sanctions.

    What are the different ways through which ships ensure they don’t lose their insurance?

    • Switching Insurance Providers: If a ship loses its Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance cover due to violations of sanctions, the owner may shift the vessel’s management to a different company with valid P&I insurance.
    • Changing Ship Management and Ownership: By changing the management entity or even the registered owner (via shell companies), ships can regain insurance cover without having to comply with the initial sanctions.
    • Use of Different Flag States: Ships registered under FoCs or jurisdictions not compliant with international regulations face less scrutiny, which can help them maintain insurance coverage despite potentially violating sanctions.
    • Renaming Vessels: This practice helps erase the association of the ship with any prior incidents or sanctions violations, allowing the ship to be insured under a different identity.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Oversight and Transparency: India should tighten regulations on ship certification and ownership disclosure, ensuring compliance with international norms to prevent any association with sanction-evading activities.
    • Strengthen International Coordination: India should collaborate with global maritime bodies to align its policies with international shipping standards, promoting responsible trade practices while safeguarding its economic interests.

  • A Nobel prize for explaining why nations fail or succeed

    Why in the News?

    U.S. economists Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson won the 2024 Economics Nobel for their research on how the formation of institutions influences a nation’s prosperity and economic success.

    What are the key factors that explain why some nations are rich while others are poor?

    • Quality of Institutions: According to the 2024 Nobel laureates, the primary determinant of economic success is the quality of a country’s institutions. Inclusive institutions, which ensure secure property rights, political freedoms, and economic opportunities, tend to promote growth.
    • Rule of Law and Property Rights: When laws protect private property and are enforced impartially, individuals are incentivized to invest and engage in economic activities. Weak or corrupt legal systems can deter investments and slow growth.
    • Political Stability and Governance: Countries with stable, democratic governance structures often provide a conducive environment for economic activities. In contrast, political instability and authoritarianism can hinder development.
    • Geography and Natural Resources: Some scholars argue that geographic factors, such as access to trade routes and natural resource endowment, play a role in shaping a nation’s wealth. However, resource-rich nations can still struggle if their institutions are weak (resource curse).
    • Human Capital and Education: Nations that invest in education and healthcare build a skilled and productive workforce, which can drive long-term economic growth.
    • Technological and Industrial Development: The ability to adopt and innovate technologies is crucial for economic advancement, which historically facilitated the “Great Divergence” during the Industrial Revolution.

    How do historical contexts and colonial legacies impact current economic outcomes?

    • Colonial Institution Setup: Colonizers often set up institutions based on their motivations and local conditions. In places with harsh climates or high disease rates, extractive institutions were established to exploit resources quickly.
    • Impact of Extractive Institutions: In countries where extractive institutions were set up, economic policies often focused on resource extraction and wealth concentration, which led to long-term stagnation. For instance, regions in Africa and South Asia that experienced extractive colonial policies face lasting developmental challenges.
    • Path Dependence: Colonial institutions created trajectories that persisted even after independence. Post-colonial governments often inherited the same extractive structures, leading to continued corruption, inequality, and weak rule of law.
    • Unequal Development: Colonialism exacerbated regional disparities by favouring some areas (urban centres, resource-rich regions) over others, affecting infrastructure development and economic integration.

    What criticisms exist regarding the theories proposed by the Nobel laureates?

    • Oversimplification of Institutional Role: Critics argue that attributing economic success primarily to institutions might ignore other important factors, such as culture, geography, and international trade dynamics, which also significantly shape economic outcomes.
    • Neglect of Global Power Structures: Some scholars believe that focusing on domestic institutions alone overlooks the influence of global economic structures and the power imbalances that exist between countries, which can perpetuate inequality.
    • Limited Consideration of Economic Policies: Critics point out that macroeconomic policies, market dynamics, and state-led development strategies also play a crucial role in determining economic trajectories, beyond institutional quality alone.
    • Debate Over Inclusiveness of “Inclusive Institutions”: Some argue that even countries with ostensibly inclusive institutions (e.g., Western democracies) can exhibit extractive practices, such as unequal wealth distribution, labor exploitation, and environmental degradation.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Institutions with Reforms: Focus on reforming political and economic institutions to promote inclusiveness, transparency, and rule of law, ensuring secure property rights and equal opportunities for all citizens.
    • Address Global Inequities and Support Development: International efforts should aim to reduce global economic disparities by promoting fair trade, debt relief, and development aid.

  • Places in news: Jordan Valley

    Jordan Valley

    Why in the News?

    Extremist groups held drone strikes on Israeli territory in the Jordan Valley (which forms Jordan’s border with Israel and the West Bank).

    About Jordan Valley:

    Details
    Geography • Part of the Great Rift Valley, extending from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea.
    • Forms a natural border between Jordan, Israel, and the West Bank.
    • Low-lying, with parts below sea level, especially near the Dead Sea.
    Climate • Semi-arid to arid, with hot summers and mild winters.
    • Limited rainfall, necessitating irrigation for agriculture.
    Significance • An essential agricultural region, growing citrus, dates, and vegetables.
    • The Jordan River is a vital water source for agriculture and drinking water.
    • Ecological corridor for migratory birds.
    History • Rich in biblical and historical significance, including Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River.
    • Archaeological sites from ancient civilizations like the Canaanites and Romans.
    Geopolitical Aspects • Critical in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with strategic importance for security and border control.
    • Vital for Palestinian economic development and a future state.
    • Shared water resources create tensions between Israel, Jordan, and Syria.
    Economic Activities • Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy.
    • Tourism is also significant due to religious and historical sites.
    Environmental Concerns • Water scarcity and the shrinking Dead Sea due to river diversion are major issues.
    • Pollution and overuse of the Jordan River affect water quality and ecosystem health.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which one of the following countries of South-West Asia does not open out to the Mediterranean Sea?

    (a) Syria

    (b) Jordan

    (c) Lebanon

    (d) Israel

  • Nile nations agree on Water-Sharing without Egypt’s nod

    nile river

    Why in the News?

    A regional partnership of 10 countries announced that an agreement on the equitable use of Nile River water resources has come into effect, despite Egypt’s opposition.

    Why discuss this?

    • The legal status of the “cooperative framework” was confirmed by the African Union after South Sudan joined the treaty.
    • The treaty is backed by the Nile Basin Initiative.
    • Countries Involved:
      • Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania have ratified the agreement.
      • Egypt and Sudan have refused to sign.
      • Congo abstained, while Kenya has yet to submit its ratification documents.

    About Nile River:

    Details
    Length Approximately 6,650 km (4,130 miles), making it the longest river in the world.
    Tributaries White Nile (originating from Lake Victoria in Uganda) and Blue Nile (originating from Lake Tana in Ethiopia).
    Countries Traversed 11 countries: Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt.
    Source
    • White Nile from Lake Victoria,
    • Blue Nile from Lake Tana.
    Mouth Mediterranean Sea, forming the Nile Delta in Egypt.
    Major Cities Includes Cairo, Khartoum, and Alexandria.
    Key Dams
    • Aswan High Dam (Egypt), controls flooding, generates hydroelectric power, and forms Lake Nasser.
    • Built in 1970 across the Nile in Aswan, Egypt; helps in irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation but also disrupts silt flow.
    Economic Importance Provides over 90% of water for Egypt and Sudan; vital for agriculture, fishing, industry, and energy production.
    Disputes Between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan over water rights, particularly due to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
    Historical Treaties
    • 1929 and 1959 Nile Water Agreements allocated water mostly to Egypt and Sudan; upstream countries seek revision.
    • Nile Basin Initiative (NBI): Established in 1999, it is a partnership among Nile Basin countries aimed at promoting cooperation, development, and sustainable management of the Nile’s resources.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Consider the following pairs:

    River Flows into
    1. Mekong Andaman Sea
    2. Thames Irish Sea
    3. Volga Caspian Sea
    4. Zambezi Indian Ocean

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 4 only

  • What is the UNIFIL?

    Why in the News?

    • India has expressed concerns about the safety of UN peacekeepers stationed in south Lebanon, after they came under fire from Israeli forces.
      • Among the peacekeepers are 600 Indian soldiers, who are part of the UN peacekeeping mission and are stationed along the 120-km Blue Line on the Israel-Lebanon border.

    What is UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon)?

    Details
    Established March 1978, following Israel’s invasion of Lebanon
    UN Resolutions Established under UNSC Resolutions 425 and 426
    Primary Objectives
    • Confirm Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon
    • Restore international peace and security
    • Assist the Government of Lebanon in regaining control over southern Lebanon
    Area of Operation Southern Lebanon, near the border with Israel (Blue Line)
    Personnel Over 10,000 peacekeepers from 50 countries (both civilian and military personnel)
    Mission
    • Prevent hostilities and maintain peace along the 121-km Blue Line
    • Ensure that no weapons or fighters are present in the region
    • Report violations to the UN Security Council
    Rules of Engagement Peacekeepers are armed but are only allowed to use force when their safety or civilian safety is at risk
    Headquarters Naqoura, southern Lebanon
    Peacekeeper Status Not soldiers but impartial peacekeepers, present with the consent of the host country, Lebanon

    Significance of UNIFIL

    • Conflict Prevention: UNIFIL monitors the Blue Line and prevents escalations between Israel and Lebanon.
    • Civilian Protection: It safeguards civilians and supports humanitarian aid efforts in conflict zones.
    • Support for Lebanon: UNIFIL helps the Lebanese government extend control in the south alongside the Lebanese Armed Forces.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in UN Security Council.

  • The status of the civil war in Sudan

    Why in the News?

    On September 26, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) initiated a significant offensive against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum and Bahri. As a result, the conflict, which had been relatively calm for several months, has reignited with increased intensity.

    What is the extent of the war? 

    • Duration and Scope: The civil war has lasted for over 18 months, initially erupting from a power struggle between the two military factions—the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). What began in Khartoum has spread to various regions, including Omdurman, Bahri, Port Sudan, El Fasher, and areas in Darfur and Kordofan.
    • Casualties and Displacement: The UN reports over 20,000 fatalities since the conflict began. Additionally, the International Organization for Migration estimates 10.89 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) as of October 1.
    • Worsening Humanitarian Crisis: Access to aid and healthcare has become severely restricted, particularly in Darfur. 
      • The UN has declared famine in specific camps like Zamzam, affecting nearly 500,000 IDPs. Currently, 25.6 million people—more than half of Sudan’s population—face critical food insecurity.

    How have ethnic tensions and rivalries played a part in the war? 

    • Ethnic Conflict: The war has evolved beyond a military rivalry, intensifying along ethnic lines. The RSF, composed of predominantly Arab militias, has been involved in targeting non-Arab communities, such as the Masalit, particularly in the Darfur region.
    • Militia Involvement: Various regional ethnic militias have taken sides in the conflict, complicating the dynamics further. The SAF has allied with the Sudanese People’s Liberation Movement, while the RSF has garnered support from Arab militias.
    • Historical reason: Ethnic tensions are rooted in historical grievances, exacerbating violence and leading to retaliatory attacks between communities, which have fueled the conflict.

    What are the implications for the region?

    • Mass Displacement: Over two million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, including Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. This has strained resources in host countries and raised concerns about a potential migrant crisis in Europe.
    • Ethnic Clashes in Neighboring Regions: The instability in Sudan has triggered ethnic violence along the borders with South Sudan and Ethiopia, particularly in contested areas like Abyei and El Fashaga.
    • Economic Impact: The ongoing conflict jeopardizes essential infrastructures, such as oil pipelines from South Sudan to the Red Sea, threatening regional economic stability.
    • Cross-Border Tensions: A lack of effective governance in Sudan has led to increased ethnic tensions and clashes in border regions, which could have wider implications for regional security and stability.

    Way forward: 

    • Facilitate Peace Talks: India can leverage its diplomatic relations with the conflicting factions (SAF and RSF) to encourage dialogue and support peace initiatives through multilateral platforms like the African Union and the UN.
    • Strengthen Regional Alliances: India can collaborate with neighbouring countries (Chad, South Sudan, Ethiopia) to manage the refugee crisis and promote stability through joint security initiatives.

  • United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)

    Why in the News?

    According to the UNAIDS Director, without India’s significant contribution, the world is unlikely to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

    What is HIV/AIDS?

    • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, weakening the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases.
    • AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection, where the immune system is severely damaged, leading to life-threatening infections and cancers.
    • HIV is transmitted through contact with infected body fluids, such as blood, semen, and breast milk.
    • Although there’s no cure, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can manage HIV and prevent the progression to AIDS.

    India’s progress in reducing HIV Infections

    • From 2010 to 2023, India reduced annual new HIV infections by 44%, which is better than the global average.
    • India has also made impressive progress in reducing AIDS-related deaths by nearly 80% between 2010 and 2023, surpassing the global average.
    • Challenges:
      • In 2023, India saw 68,000 new infections, meaning around 185 people were infected each day.
      • The Global AIDS Strategy calls for 80% of prevention services to be delivered by community-led organizations.
      • These organizations are best placed to reach key populations, but they need adequate resources and space to lead these efforts.

     

    About UNAIDS (Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS):

    Details
    Established In 1996, by United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
    Headquarters Geneva, Switzerland
    Main Purpose To coordinate global action to combat HIV/AIDS, prevent infections, and support those affected
    Mandate • Coordinate the global response to HIV/AIDS
    • Support countries in HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment strategies
    • Advocate for human rights and equality in access to HIV services
    Principle Greater Involvement of People Living with HIV (GIPA), endorsed by the UN in 2001 and 2006
    Global Targets 90-90-90 targets:
    90% diagnosed, 90% on treatment, 90% virally suppressed by 2020
    Global AIDS Strategy 2021-2026: Aim to end inequalities driving HIV and ensure 30 million on treatment by 2025
    Cosponsors 11 UN organizations, including UNICEF, WHO, UNDP, UNESCO, World Bank
    Key Areas of Focus Supporting countries to meet SDG 3: End AIDS by 2030.

    • HIV prevention
    • Treatment access
    • Human rights advocacy
    • Gender equality
    • Youth and adolescents
    Funding Donors include governments, private foundations, and corporations
    Key Campaigns World AIDS Day (December 1), global awareness and advocacy efforts
    Achievements Significant progress toward the 90-90-90 targets, especially in countries like South Africa, Cambodia, and Eswatini

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following diseases can be transmitted from one person to another through tattooing?

    1. Chikungunya
    2. Hepatitis B
    3. HIV-AIDS

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • China-Vietnam red diplomacy 

    Why in the News?

    Vietnamese President’s recent trip to China seeks to rekindle the historical ties and camaraderie between Mao Zedong and Ho Chi Minh, to strengthen political trust in their bilateral relationship strategically.

    Current Diplomatic Relationship between China and Vietnam:

    • Revived Political Trust: Vietnamese President to Lam’s visit to China sought to revive the historical comradeship between Mao Zedong and Ho Chi Minh.
      • This visit aimed to strategically strengthen political trust and enhance the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two communist nations.
    • Joint Statement on Cooperation: Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to advancing socialism and expressed their desire to build a “Vietnam-China community with a shared future.”
    • Economic and Strategic Agreements: The visit resulted in 14 agreements covering areas such as connectivity, infrastructure, healthcare, and media.
      • Trade between the two nations remains robust, with China being Vietnam’s largest import market and a significant investor. Bilateral trade in 2023 reached $171.9 billion.

    How do recent events reflect the complexities of Vietnam’s foreign policy towards China?

    • Bamboo Diplomacy: Vietnam’s foreign policy, known as “Bamboo Diplomacy,” is based on flexibility and resilience.
      • It aims to maintain strong ties with multiple global powers, including China, while also hedging its bets with the U.S., India, Russia, and Japan to counterbalance Chinese dominance.
    • Economic Dependence vs. Strategic Hedging: Vietnam’s growing economic interdependence with China, reflected in trade and investment, contrasts with its efforts to hedge against over-reliance by fostering ties with other global players. This balancing act illustrates Vietnam’s pragmatic approach to foreign policy.

    Challenges Vietnam Faces in Maintaining Sovereignty Amid Growing Chinese Influence:

    • Territorial Disputes: The ongoing territorial contestation over the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea poses a significant challenge for Vietnam.
    • Economic Dependence: While Vietnam benefits from economic ties with China, the growing trade deficit and increased Chinese investments create a dependency that could challenge Vietnam’s autonomy in decision-making, especially in strategic areas like infrastructure and connectivity.
    • Strategic Hedging and Sovereignty: Vietnam’s efforts to hedge against Chinese influence through partnerships with the U.S., Japan, and India.

    Note: Hedging refers to a strategic approach taken by a country to safeguard its interests and security in a complex and uncertain environment.

    Way forward:

    • Enhance Bilateral Engagement: India should deepen its strategic partnership with Vietnam through increased economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and joint defense initiatives.
    • Support Regional Multilateralism: India should actively participate in regional forums and initiatives that promote multilateral cooperation, such as the Quad and ASEAN-led dialogues.