R2R SSB BATCHES START EVERY 1ST & 15TH of month.
These articles were published in The Hindu.
1. The Erosion of Global Order: Navigating an Era of Uncertainty
Background:
▹ The post-World War II era, characterized by a U.S.-led rules-based international order, is facing significant challenges and a potential descent into disorder.
▹ This established order, intended to promote stability and cooperation, is being undermined by a confluence of factors.
▹ The rise of disruptive technologies, geopolitical realignments, and the increasing influence of non-state actors are contributing to this instability.
▹ The leadership vacuum created by a perceived decline in U.S. influence and the rise of authoritarian regimes are further exacerbating the situation.
▹ Events like the war in Ukraine, influenced by Vladimir Putin's actions, and the unpredictable nature of global leaders are disrupting the existing order.
▹ The world is witnessing a shift away from multilateralism towards a more fragmented and unpredictable landscape.
The situation now:
▹ The U.S.'s focus on domestic issues and its occasional disregard for international norms under the Trump administration have weakened the rules-based order.
▹ The U.S. President's rhetoric and actions have reportedly undermined international institutions and alliances.
▹ Europe is grappling with the consequences of the war in Ukraine and its own internal challenges, leading to uncertainty about its future role in global affairs.
▹ Russia's actions in Ukraine have fundamentally challenged the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, shaking the foundations of the international order.
▹ The situation in the Gaza Strip and the broader Middle East remains volatile, with the potential for wider regional instability.
▹ China's growing assertiveness in the international arena and its complex relationship with the existing order present another significant challenge.
▹ The rise of terrorism and the proliferation of sophisticated weaponry further contribute to global insecurity.
▹ The author suggests that the world is facing a "leadership famine" with a lack of decisive and principled leadership to address these mounting challenges.
▹ The erosion of trust and the increasing polarization of international relations are making it difficult to forge consensus on critical global issues.
▹ The focus on narrow national interests often overshadows the need for collective action to address shared threats.
Way forward:
▹ The current trajectory suggests a move towards a more chaotic and less predictable international environment.
▹ The absence of a strong and unified global leadership makes it difficult to address conflicts and maintain stability.
▹ Regional powers and non-state actors are likely to play a more significant role in shaping future events.
▹ The potential for increased conflict and instability remains high in various regions around the world.
▹ The revival of global institutions and a renewed commitment to multilateralism are crucial to mitigating the risks of further disorder.
▹ A concerted effort to rebuild trust and foster cooperation among nations is essential.
▹ The need for principled and consistent leadership, committed to upholding international norms and laws, is more critical than ever.
▹ Addressing the root causes of instability, such as economic inequality and political grievances, is also vital for long-term peace and security.
▹ The future global order will depend on the choices and actions of key international players in navigating this period of profound uncertainty.
2. The Contentious Indus Water Treaty: Implications of Suspension
Background:
▹ Following the recent terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 tourists were reportedly killed by Pakistan-based terrorists, there are strong domestic calls for a firm response against Pakistan.
▹ One proposed measure under consideration is the potential suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), a long-standing agreement between India and Pakistan regarding the sharing of the Indus River system's waters.
▹ The IWT, signed in 1960, allocates the waters of the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej) primarily to India and the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab) primarily to Pakistan, with provisions for India's limited use of the western rivers.
▹ The treaty has survived several wars and periods of intense bilateral tension between the two nations.
▹ However, there are growing voices in India arguing that Pakistan's alleged support for cross-border terrorism necessitates a reassessment of this long-standing agreement.
▹ Some Indian analysts argue that the provisions under Articles 60 and 62 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (VCLT) could potentially be invoked to justify a suspension of the treaty in response to Pakistan's actions.
▹ Article 62 of the VCLT, concerning a fundamental change of circumstances, and Article 60, dealing with the breach of a treaty, are being cited in this context.
▹ However, legal experts also caution that unilaterally suspending the IWT could have significant international repercussions and might not be legally tenable.
The situation now:
▹ India is currently considering its position on the IWT in light of the recent terrorist attacks and their alleged links to Pakistan.
▹ The potential suspension of the treaty is being debated at the highest levels of the Indian government.
▹ Proponents of suspension argue that it could exert significant pressure on Pakistan, particularly given its heavy reliance on the waters of the Indus River system for agriculture and its economy.
▹ Pakistan's agricultural sector, especially in Punjab and Sindh provinces, depends heavily on irrigation from the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers.
▹ An interruption in the water flow could have severe economic and social consequences for Pakistan.
▹ However, there are also concerns within India about the potential negative repercussions of unilaterally abrogating or suspending an international treaty, particularly one as significant as the IWT.
▹ Such a move could damage India's international standing and potentially invite criticism from international bodies and other nations.
▹ Moreover, it could set a precedent for other countries to potentially disregard international agreements.
▹ China, an upper riparian state on some of the rivers that flow into India, might also react in unforeseen ways if India were to unilaterally alter the IWT.
▹ Some analysts suggest that instead of outright suspension, India might explore other options within the framework of the IWT to exert pressure on Pakistan, such as delaying or restricting data sharing on river flows.
▹ The World Bank, which played a key role in brokering the IWT, would likely be concerned about any unilateral actions that could undermine the treaty.
3. Secret Threats: State Surveillance Must Not Stifle Democratic Dissent
The article argues that while state surveillance is necessary to address genuine national security threats, it must be subject to systematic checks and oversight to prevent its misuse against democratic dissent.
The key points:
▹ Need for Oversight: State surveillance powers should not mirror the nefarious activities of the dark underworld and require robust judicial and systemic checks.
▹ Concerns over Misuse: There are concerns about the arbitrary use of surveillance tools, particularly spyware like Pegasus, against politicians, judges, journalists, and religious leaders. The government has neither confirmed nor denied its use of Pegasus.
▹ Legitimate Security Concerns: The article acknowledges the reality of serious threats from terrorists, non-state actors, and criminals who use advanced technologies like encryption. Effective detection requires technological and legal wherewithal.
▹ Balancing Security and Democratic Values: Invoking national security should not be a pretext for stifling legitimate political opposition or dissent. Overbroad surveillance powers without adequate safeguards can undermine the foundations of India's constitutional democracy.
▹ Call for Clear Procedures and Transparency: The article emphasizes the need for clearly defined standards and protocols for surveillance, ensuring accountability and preventing executive arbitrariness. Oversight by other branches of government and the public is crucial.
▹ Relevance to Pahalgam Attack: The backdrop of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, frames the discussion, highlighting the genuine need for security measures while cautioning against their potential abuse.
In essence, the article stresses the delicate balance between ensuring national security and safeguarding democratic freedoms, warning against the state using security concerns to suppress legitimate dissent through unchecked surveillance.
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NEWS in SHORTS
A. Digital Access a Fundamental Right: SC
The Supreme Court has declared that inclusive and meaningful digital access to e-governance and welfare delivery systems is a fundamental right to life and liberty. The court emphasized that the state has an obligation to provide an inclusive digital ecosystem that serves all sections of society, particularly the marginalized, vulnerable, disabled, and historically excluded. Justice S. Ravindra Bhat, who authored the judgment, stated that the right to digital access is an intrinsic component of the right to life and liberty.
B. Ex-RAW Chief Appointed Head of Reconstituted NSAB
Amid ongoing tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, the government has reorganized the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) and appointed Alok Joshi, former chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), as its Chairman. Seven new members have also been inducted into the 16-member board. This move aims to strengthen the NSAB's capacity for long-term analysis and providing perspectives on national security issues.
C. J&K's Economy and Tourism in Peril After Pahalgam Massacre
The targeted killings of tourists in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the recent Pahalgam attack, have severely impacted the region's tourism and economy. Tourist numbers are declining, hotel bookings are being canceled, and the Union Territory's revenue generation is under threat. The attacks have instilled fear and damaged the perception of Kashmir as a safe destination, potentially leading to long-term economic repercussions.
