Assignment Code: MPSE-011/Asst/TMA/2023-24

Course Code: MPSE-011

Assignment Name: European Union in World Affairs

Year: 2023-2024

Verification Status: Verified by Professor

Answer five questions in all, selecting at least two questions from each section. Each question is to be answered in about 500 words. Each question carries 20 marks.

SECTION- I

Q1) Explain the major feature of European Union. What are its major challenges?

Ans)The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 member states that are located primarily in Europe. The EU has a number of key features that make it unique, including:

a) Economic integration: The EU has a single market, which means that there are no barriers to trade between member states. This allows for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor. The EU also has a common currency, the euro, which is used by 19 of the 27 member states.

b) Political cooperation: The EU has a number of institutions that allow member states to cooperate on a range of issues, including foreign policy, security, and justice. The EU also has a common parliament, the European Parliament, which is directly elected by citizens of the EU.

c) Peace and stability: The EU has played a key role in promoting peace and stability in Europe. The EU has helped to resolve conflicts between member states and has also played a role in peacekeeping missions around the world.

d) Human rights and democracy: The EU is committed to upholding human rights and democracy. The EU has a number of institutions that are responsible for protecting human rights and promoting democracy.

Major Challenges of the European Union

a) Economic inequality: There is a significant amount of economic inequality within the EU. Some member states are much richer than others, and there is also a growing gap between the rich and the poor within individual member states.

b) Immigration: The EU is facing a number of challenges related to immigration. The EU has a large number of immigrants from other countries, and there is a debate about how to manage immigration and integrate immigrants into EU society.

c) Climate change: The EU is committed to tackling climate change. The EU has set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but it is facing a number of challenges in achieving these targets.

d) Political polarization: The EU is facing a growing degree of political polarization. There is a growing divide between populist and nationalist movements on the one hand, and pro-EU parties on the other hand.

Q2) How did the federal factor shape the process of European integration?

Ans) The federal factor has been a significant force in shaping the process of European integration. Here are a few key ways in which it has influenced this process:

a) Post-War Recovery and Unity: The devastation of World War II led many European leaders to seek ways to prevent future conflicts. The idea of a unified Europe emerged as a means to achieve lasting peace and stability. Federalism offered a model for pooling sovereignty and creating a supranational entity that could prevent conflicts among European nations.

b) Founding of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC): The ECSC, established in 1951, was the first step in European integration. Its formation was influenced by federalist ideas. By pooling the coal and steel industries of six European countries under a supranational authority, it aimed to prevent these vital resources from being used as tools for war and to promote economic cooperation.

c) Treaties and Institutions: Subsequent treaties and the establishment of institutions like the European Economic Community (EEC) and later the European Union (EU) were shaped by federalist principles. These entities aimed to gradually deepen integration by transferring certain powers from individual nations to supranational bodies like the European Commission, Parliament, and Court of Justice.

d) Sovereignty and Integration: Federalism poses a challenge to the traditional concept of state sovereignty. The process of European integration has involved a gradual transfer of powers from member states to the EU, leading to a sharing of sovereignty. This has been a point of debate and contention, as some view it as necessary for a unified Europe while others are more cautious about the implications for national autonomy.

e) Expansion and Enlargement: The federal factor has influenced the enlargement of the EU. New members joining the union have had to align their laws and policies with EU standards, thereby adopting a more federalist approach in terms of governance.

f) Challenges and Opposition: Not all member states or citizens within those states are enthusiastic about deeper federal integration. The push for more federalist policies often faces opposition from those concerned about losing national identity, control, or the perceived erosion of democratic accountability in a more distant centralized authority.

Q3) Discuss the major feature and effects of the single European Market.

Ans) The major feature and effects of the single European Market are as follows:

Major Features:

a) Free Movement of Goods: The Single Market allows goods to move freely across member states without customs duties or other trade barriers. It harmonizes standards and regulations, making it easier for businesses to trade within the EU.

b) Free Movement of Services: It facilitates the provision of services across borders by allowing service providers to operate in other member states under certain conditions, promoting competition and consumer choice.

c) Free Movement of Capital: Capital flows freely within the Single Market. It allows for the removal of restrictions on capital movements between member states, contributing to the integration of financial markets.

d) Free Movement of People: EU citizens have the right to live, work, and study in any member state. This principle allows for the mobility of labor and helps address skills shortages in certain regions or industries.

e) Harmonization of Regulations: The Single Market aims to harmonize regulations and standards across member states to ensure a level playing field for businesses and consumers. This harmonization reduces barriers to trade caused by differing national regulations.

f) Competition Policy: The EU implements competition rules to prevent anti-competitive practices and monopolies, fostering fair competition within the Single Market.

Effects:

a) Increased Trade and Economic Growth: The Single Market has led to increased trade among member states, fostering economic growth by creating a larger consumer base for businesses and encouraging economies of scale.

b) Enhanced Business Opportunities: Businesses benefit from expanded market access, reduced red tape, and simplified procedures for cross-border transactions, leading to increased investment and business opportunities.

c) Consumer Benefits: Consumers have access to a wider variety of products and services at competitive prices due to increased competition and choice within the Single Market.

d) Job Creation and Labor Mobility: Labor mobility allows for the movement of workers to regions with better job prospects, addressing labor shortages in certain areas and contributing to economic dynamism.

e) Challenges and Adaptation: While the Single Market has brought numerous benefits, it also presents challenges such as the need for ongoing regulatory alignment, addressing disparities in economic development among member states, and ensuring social cohesion amidst increased mobility.

SECTION- II

Write a short note on each part of the following questions in about 250 words.

Q4a) Basic Principle of CAP

Ans) The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is a central and longstanding policy of the European Union aimed at supporting the agricultural sector. It's based on several fundamental principles:

a) Market Unity: CAP seeks to ensure a unified market for agricultural products within the EU. This principle emphasizes the elimination of trade barriers between member states, allowing free movement of agricultural goods. Market unity prevents distortions caused by tariffs or quotas, promoting fair competition and price stability across the EU.

b) Common Prices and Income Support: CAP establishes common prices for certain agricultural products across member states. This price support mechanism ensures farmers receive fair and stable prices for their produce. Additionally, income support mechanisms, such as direct payments to farmers, aim to stabilize agricultural incomes, particularly during market fluctuations or adverse conditions.

c) Community Preference: This principle prioritizes EU-produced goods over imports from non-EU countries. It's designed to protect domestic agriculture by imposing tariffs or quotas on certain imported agricultural products. Community preference safeguards the EU market from unfair competition and ensures a level playing field for European farmers.

d) Financial Solidarity: CAP involves significant financial contributions from the EU budget to support agricultural activities. These funds are allocated to various programs, including direct payments, rural development initiatives, and market intervention measures. Financial solidarity aims to ensure the viability of agricultural sectors across member states, promoting rural development and preserving farming communities.

e) Environmental Sustainability: In recent years, CAP has increasingly emphasized environmental sustainability and the responsible use of natural resources. Through measures like eco-schemes and greening requirements, CAP encourages farmers to adopt environmentally friendly practices, protect biodiversity, and mitigate the impact of agriculture on the environment.

Q4b) European Union and the United States

Ans) The relationship between the European Union (EU) and the United States is multifaceted, built on shared values, historical ties, and extensive economic and diplomatic cooperation. Here are key aspects defining their relationship:

a) Economic Partnership: The EU and the US share one of the largest and most integrated economic relationships globally. They engage in substantial trade and investment, with the EU being the largest trading partner of the US and vice versa. This economic partnership involves not only the exchange of goods and services but also significant investment flows.

b) Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP): In the past, the EU and the US have aimed to further liberalize trade through negotiations on the TTIP, seeking to eliminate barriers and enhance regulatory cooperation. While negotiations stalled, both sides continue to explore ways to deepen economic ties.

c) Security and Defense Cooperation: The EU and the US collaborate closely on security and defense matters. NATO, of which both entities are key members, forms the cornerstone of transatlantic security cooperation. They work together on various security challenges, including counterterrorism, defense capabilities, and regional stability.

d) Shared Values and Diplomacy: The EU and the US share common values such as democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. They often coordinate their diplomatic efforts on global issues, including climate change, global health, and promoting democracy and human rights worldwide.

e) Challenges and Disputes: Despite the strong ties, the EU and the US have faced disagreements and disputes on various fronts, including trade policies, digital taxation, and issues related to data privacy and security. These disagreements sometimes lead to tensions and trade frictions.

f) Technology and Innovation: Collaboration in technology and innovation remains an area of significant potential. Both entities have mutual interests in fostering digital economies, advancing technological innovation, and addressing regulatory challenges in the digital sphere.

Q5a) India –EU strategic partnership

Ans) The India-EU strategic partnership represents a significant diplomatic relationship characterized by shared values, economic ties, and cooperation on various global issues. Here's a breakdown of its key components:

a) Economic Collaboration: The India-EU partnership is anchored in economic cooperation. Both entities engage in trade and investment, aiming to enhance bilateral economic relations. The EU is one of India's largest trading partners, with collaborations spanning diverse sectors like technology, energy, agriculture, and services.

b) Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation: Regular high-level dialogues between India and the EU focus on strategic issues such as security, counterterrorism, defense, maritime cooperation, and cybersecurity. The partnership emphasizes joint efforts to address global security challenges and promote peace and stability in the region.

c) Climate Change and Sustainability: India and the EU cooperate on climate action and sustainability, recognizing the importance of addressing climate change. Both sides have engaged in dialogues to promote clean energy, sustainable development, and adherence to international climate agreements.

d) Research and Innovation: Collaboration in research, innovation, and technology is a significant aspect of the partnership. Joint initiatives promote scientific research, academic exchanges, and technological advancements in areas like healthcare, space exploration, and information technology.

e) Cultural and People-to-People Ties: Cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties contribute to fostering mutual understanding and strengthening relations between India and the EU. Educational collaborations, tourism, and cultural events facilitate a deeper appreciation of each other's heritage and traditions.

f) Multilateral Cooperation: India and the EU often collaborate in multilateral forums like the United Nations, G20, and WTO. Both entities advocate for global governance reforms, promote human rights, and support a rules-based international order.

Q5b) India –EU major joint ventures

Ans) India and the European Union (EU) have engaged in several joint ventures across various sectors, fostering cooperation and mutual benefit. Here are notable collaborations:

a) Trade and Investment: India and the EU have a significant economic relationship, engaging in trade and investment ventures. Efforts have been made to enhance bilateral trade and investment through negotiations for a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA), known as the EU-India Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA). This agreement aims to reduce tariffs, facilitate market access, and promote investments between the two entities.

b) Research and Innovation: Collaboration in research and innovation is a key area of joint ventures. The EU and India have various partnerships in science, technology, and innovation through initiatives like the Horizon 2020 program and the India-EU Science, Technology, and Innovation Cooperation. These ventures support joint research projects, academic exchanges, and technology transfers, fostering innovation and knowledge-sharing between India and the EU.

c) Climate Change and Sustainable Development: India and the EU have partnered in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development. Joint initiatives include dialogues on climate action, renewable energy cooperation, and initiatives like the India-EU Water Partnership. These ventures aim to combat climate change, promote clean energy solutions, and ensure sustainable development through policy dialogues and collaborative projects.

d) Education and Cultural Exchange: Collaboration in the fields of education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges is significant. Programs like the Erasmus+ exchange program facilitate student and academic exchanges between India and the EU, promoting cultural understanding and educational cooperation.

e) Security and Counter-Terrorism: India and the EU engage in dialogues and joint initiatives concerning security, counter-terrorism, and strategic cooperation. Discussions focus on addressing global security challenges, promoting regional stability, and combating terrorism through information sharing and collaboration.