Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
4. Multi-lateral negotiations will be increasingly difficult in the present chaotic global situation. Do you think India should shift its focus towards ‘multilateralism’, given that ‘Bilateral’, ‘Pluri-laterals’, etc. are gaining more traction in contemporary international relations? Discuss.
Difficulty level: Difficult
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
The current geopolitical situation has seen multilateralism being not able to solve current issues. The 14th virtual BRICS summit hosted by China (June 23-24) was a clear attempt by China to hijack the grouping, going by a blueprint it has prepared for the new world order. In this situation, Bilateral engagements may be much more productive at this point in history.
Key Demand of the question:
Discuss how bilateralism is better than multilateralism in the current geopolitics.
Directive word:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Describe the context and give what you mean by ‘multilateralism’
“Evolving global order and the changing nature of threats are posing difficult questions on the continued relevance of multilateral frameworks. Bilateral, Pluri lateral and Mini laterals can help in framing targeted partnerships that can focus energies on shared interests and concerns in the current geopolitical situations.”
Body:
First, give reasons why India followed multilateralism over the years.
Next, Answer -should India change its stance? Yes- give point-wise reasons.
Then give perils of opting for that ‘Bilateral’, ‘Pluri-laterals’ and ‘Mini-laterals’ over ‘multilateralism.
Conclusion:
Give a balanced view. E.g.
“India should take a balanced view and engage with trading partners bilaterally and through plurilateral and multi-lateral agreements forums depending on a case-to-case basis.”
