CSS Past Paper 2020 Current Affairs Descriptive (Part 2)
CSS | Past Paper | Compulsory | 2020 | Part 2 | Descriptive
Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2020 Current Affairs Descriptive (Part 2).
Question 2
What impact global climate change will have on the water resources of Pakistan? How will it affect inter-provincial harmony?
Introduction
Global climate change is becoming one of the biggest challenges for Pakistan, especially when it comes to water. Pakistan is already a water-stressed country, and climate change is making it worse. The glaciers are melting faster, rainfall patterns are changing, and extreme weather events are increasing. This directly affects water availability in the country and causes tension between provinces over sharing of resources.
Impacts of Climate Change on Pakistan’s Water Resources
- Melting of Glaciers
Pakistan depends heavily on the Indus River System, which is fed by glaciers in the Himalayas and Karakoram. Due to rising temperatures, these glaciers are melting rapidly. This causes sudden floods at first, but in the long run, it reduces water availability because glaciers are shrinking. - Changing Rainfall Patterns
Monsoon seasons are becoming unpredictable. Sometimes it rains too much causing floods, and other times too little, leading to droughts. This uneven distribution makes it difficult to manage agriculture and water storage. - Increase in Floods and Droughts
Pakistan faces more frequent and intense floods, especially in Sindh and Punjab. On the other side, areas like Balochistan and Thar face droughts. This imbalance creates serious issues in water distribution. - Decreased River Flows
With less snowfall and early melting, river flows become low in the summer when water is needed the most for crops. This affects food security and also the livelihoods of farmers. - Groundwater Depletion
As surface water becomes less reliable, people rely more on underground water. Overuse of tube wells is causing groundwater to fall, especially in urban areas and Punjab.
Effect on Inter-Provincial Harmony
- Conflict Over Water Sharing
Water sharing among provinces is already a sensitive issue. Climate change makes the situation worse by reducing available water. Provinces like Sindh accuse Punjab of using more than its share. This leads to mistrust and political tensions. - Disputes over Dams and Reservoirs
Projects like Kalabagh Dam have been opposed by smaller provinces like Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, fearing Punjab will get more control over water. Climate stress makes these debates more heated. - IRSA Under Pressure
The Indus River System Authority (IRSA), which manages water distribution, faces criticism from provinces. When water is short, provinces blame each other and also IRSA for unfair distribution. - Agricultural Losses and Unemployment
As water becomes less available, crop production falls. Farmers in Sindh and Balochistan suffer more due to poor irrigation systems. This leads to frustration and feelings of being ignored by the federal government.
Way Forward / Recommendations
- Better Water Management
Pakistan should adopt modern irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems to save water. - Build Consensus on Dams
Instead of fighting, provinces should come together and agree on building storage dams that benefit everyone. - Glacier Monitoring and Early Warning Systems
Government should invest in tracking glacier changes and setting up early warning systems for floods. - Revise Water Accord if Needed
The 1991 Water Accord should be revisited based on current realities and climate challenges. - Promote Inter-Provincial Dialogue
More regular and transparent discussions between provinces can reduce misunderstandings and build trust.
Conclusion
Climate change is making water scarcity a bigger threat for Pakistan. If not handled properly, it can disturb the unity among provinces. A joint national response is needed where all provinces, along with the federal government, work together to ensure fair water sharing and climate adaptation. Without this, the issue of water can become a source of serious internal conflict in the future.
Question 3
Why was Pakistan placed on the ‘Grey List’ of Financial Action Task Force (FATF)? What are the implications and what measures should Pakistan take to move out of this list?
Introduction
stop money laundering and terror financing. FATF is an international organization that monitors financial systems and checks if countries are taking proper steps to prevent illegal money flow. Being on the grey list created many challenges for Pakistan, both politically and economically.
Why Was Pakistan Put on the Grey List?
- Terror Financing Concerns
FATF claimed Pakistan was not taking enough action to stop financial support to banned terrorist groups like LeT (Lashkar-e-Taiba), JeM (Jaish-e-Mohammed), and others. - Weak Financial Monitoring
Pakistan’s banking system was not strong in detecting suspicious transactions. There were gaps in tracking where money was coming from or going to. - Lack of Prosecution
Even though Pakistan made some laws, there were very few convictions or punishments for people involved in money laundering and terror financing. - Poor Implementation of UN Sanctions
Pakistan was also criticized for not properly enforcing UN sanctions on groups and individuals listed as terrorists by the UN. - Previous Grey Listing
Pakistan had also been on the grey list before (2008 and 2012). FATF believed that progress was slow and not consistent.
Implications of Grey Listing for Pakistan
- Economic Pressure
Being on the grey list affected Pakistan’s economy. It made it harder to get loans and investments from organizations like IMF, World Bank, and other countries. - Drop in Foreign Investment
Foreign investors lost confidence in Pakistan’s financial system. Many were afraid that their money might be at risk, so FDI decreased. - Damage to International Reputation
Pakistan’s global image was damaged. Countries started seeing it as a high-risk nation when it came to financial transparency. - Banking Restrictions
Pakistan’s banks had to face more strict regulations in global transactions, which increased costs and delays. - Political Pressure
It increased diplomatic pressure, especially from India and other countries, who wanted Pakistan to be moved from grey to black list, which would have caused even more damage.
Measures Pakistan Should Take to Get Out of the Grey List
- Fully Implement FATF Action Plan
Pakistan must follow all 27 points of the FATF action plan, like tightening laws, arresting suspects, and blocking illegal financial flows. - Strengthen Financial Institutions
Banks and financial bodies should be trained to identify suspicious activities, improve KYC (Know Your Customer) rules, and report doubtful transactions. - Effective Prosecution and Convictions
Authorities must go beyond paperwork and actually punish those involved in terror financing and money laundering. - Ban and Monitor Extremist Organizations
Groups that are banned on paper must also be banned in action. Their social work fronts and charity wings should be monitored and closed if needed. - Work with International Bodies
Pakistan should continue cooperating with FATF, APG (Asia Pacific Group) and other bodies to improve its systems. - Transparency and Political Will
There should be no political influence in financial investigations. Government must show that it is serious and honest in fighting terror finance.
Conclusion
FATF grey listing was a big wake-up call for Pakistan. It showed that reforms are not only about passing laws but also about taking real actions. Pakistan has taken many steps to improve its system, but full and consistent implementation is still needed. Getting out of the grey list is not just about image—it’s about securing the country’s economy, global trust, and long-term stability.
Question 4
Given the volatile lockdown in Indian Occupied Kashmir, what are the viable policy choices available to Pakistan? What can Pakistan realistically do to ease the sufferings of Kashmiri people?
Introduction
The situation in Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK) got worse after August 5, 2019, when India removed Article 370, ending the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. A complete lockdown, curfews, and communication blackout followed. Human rights were violated, and the people of Kashmir were isolated from the world. In this situation, Pakistan has limited options but still holds some viable policy choices to help the Kashmiri people and raise their voice on international forums.
Viable Policy Choices for Pakistan
- Diplomatic Efforts
Pakistan should continue strong diplomatic pressure on India through the United Nations, OIC, and friendly countries. Internationalize the Kashmir issue and present evidence of human rights violations to the global community. - Legal Action at International Forums
Pakistan can take the Kashmir issue to International Court of Justice (ICJ) and other human rights bodies by highlighting the illegal action of removing Article 370 and the lockdown in the region. - Engage the Global Media
Pakistan should use international media to show the real condition of Kashmiri people. By sharing videos, reports, and interviews, global public opinion can be built in favour of Kashmiris. - Support Kashmiris Politically and Morally
Pakistan must keep expressing political, diplomatic, and moral support to Kashmiris. Observing Kashmir Solidarity Day and issuing strong statements keeps the issue alive. - Forming Alliances
Pakistan can build regional and international alliances with countries that support human rights, like Turkey, Malaysia, and China, to speak out against India’s actions. - Highlighting Human Rights Violations
Pakistan must work with NGOs, human rights organizations and UN special bodies to report cases of torture, mass arrests, and use of pellet guns in Kashmir. - Strengthen Voice of Kashmiri Diaspora
Kashmiris living abroad should be encouraged to raise the issue in the US, UK, and Europe through protests, seminars, and lobbying.
What Can Pakistan Realistically Do to Ease Their Suffering?
- Provide Humanitarian Aid
Pakistan can work with international aid agencies to send medical and food support to the people of Kashmir, especially during COVID-19 and harsh winters. - Media and Internet Campaigns
When India blocks communication, Pakistan can become the voice of Kashmir by running social media campaigns, hosting webinars, and using platforms like Twitter and YouTube. - Avoid War but Stay Alert
Pakistan should not go for military action but must keep its defense strong. A peaceful stance is more effective internationally. - Youth and Student Engagement
Pakistani youth, especially university students, should be encouraged to raise awareness through essays, competitions, and social media. - Backdoor Diplomacy
Along with public diplomacy, Pakistan can also try secret talks or backdoor diplomacy with countries like USA or even India to find ways to ease tensions. - Pressure through Trade and Water Agreements
Pakistan can review agreements like Indus Water Treaty and also use trade pressure through SAARC and other regional forums.
Conclusion
Pakistan cannot fight a war over Kashmir, but it can fight diplomatically, politically, and morally. By using smart and peaceful strategies, Pakistan can expose India’s actions, support the Kashmiris, and keep the Kashmir issue alive globally. The world is slowly recognizing the situation, and Pakistan must continue its efforts without giving up.
Question 5
Discuss the strategic contours of Indo-US evolving partnership and how will it impact Pakistan-US and Pakistan-China relations?
Introduction
In the past two decades, India and the United States have built a strong strategic partnership. This includes defense deals, trade, technology, and shared political interests, especially in the Indo-Pacific region. The rise of China and the US’s aim to counter it has made India an important ally. This growing relationship affects Pakistan directly, both in terms of its ties with the US and China.
Strategic Contours of Indo-US Evolving Partnership
- Defense Cooperation
The US and India have signed major defense agreements like COMCASA, LEMOA, and BECA, allowing sharing of military logistics, intelligence, and satellite data. India also buys advanced weapons from the US like drones, fighter jets, etc. - Nuclear Deal (2008)
The civil nuclear agreement between India and the US gave India access to international nuclear trade, even though India is not part of NPT. This deal strengthened trust between the two countries. - Quad and Indo-Pacific Strategy
India is a member of the Quad alliance (with US, Japan, and Australia). This alliance focuses on countering China in the Indo-Pacific. The US sees India as a key player in maintaining balance in Asia. - Technology and Economy
India and the US cooperate in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, space tech, and 5G. Also, both countries have strong trade and investment relations. - Diplomatic Support
The US often supports India’s stand at international forums like the UN. It supports India’s bid for a permanent seat in the UNSC.
Impact on Pakistan-US Relations
- Reduced US Attention
As the US gets closer to India, its focus on Pakistan has reduced. Earlier, Pakistan was a major non-NATO ally, especially during the War on Terror, but now the relationship is limited mostly to security and Afghanistan issues. - Trust Deficit
The US has concerns about militancy, nuclear safety, and China-Pakistan ties. These issues have created distrust and less engagement between both countries. - Less Economic Support
The US has cut down military and economic aid to Pakistan in recent years. Pakistan is now relying more on China and Gulf countries for support. - Pressure on Kashmir Issue
The US rarely criticizes India on Kashmir. Its silence shows a shift in policy and affects Pakistan’s efforts to get global attention on Kashmir.
Impact on Pakistan-China Relations
- Stronger Pakistan-China Bond
As India and the US grow closer, Pakistan and China are also deepening their friendship. China supports Pakistan on Kashmir, gives military aid, and is investing heavily through CPEC. - Geopolitical Balance
Pakistan uses its strong ties with China to balance India’s influence in the region. China also sees Pakistan as a key partner in its Belt and Road Initiative. - Security and Defense Cooperation
China provides missile technology, fighter jets (like JF-17), and naval ships to Pakistan. Joint military exercises also show strong defense ties. - Economic Dependence
Pakistan depends heavily on Chinese loans and investment, especially during its economic crisis. CPEC is considered a game changer but also creates debt concerns.
Conclusion
The evolving Indo-US partnership is shaping the strategic balance in South Asia. It creates challenges for Pakistan, especially in terms of diplomacy and security. However, Pakistan is strengthening its partnership with China in response. To maintain stability, Pakistan needs a balanced foreign policy, keeping good ties with both China and the US, while improving its own economy and global image.
Question 6
Strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region is increasingly becoming intense. Define the interests and role of US, China, India, Japan and Australia in the geopolitics of Indo-Pacific region.
Introduction
The Indo-Pacific region has become the center of global politics. Countries like US, China, India, Japan, and Australia are deeply involved in this region because of its economic importance, sea routes, and military presence. The rise of China, the US’s response, and the formation of new alliances have made the strategic competition intense.
United States – Strategic Interests and Role
- Containment of China
The US wants to stop China’s growing influence in Asia, especially in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait. - Freedom of Navigation
The US Navy conducts regular patrols in the Indo-Pacific to ensure freedom of navigation, especially in disputed waters claimed by China. - Military Alliances
The US has strong defense ties with Japan, South Korea, Australia, and is working closely with India. It is also leading the QUAD alliance. - Indo-Pacific Strategy
The US has a clear Indo-Pacific Strategy to promote a free, open, and rules-based order in the region.
China – Strategic Interests and Role
- Regional Dominance
China wants to become the main power in Asia. It claims most of the South China Sea and has built artificial islands with military bases. - Economic Expansion
Through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China is building ports and roads to increase trade and influence, including CPEC with Pakistan. - Military Power
China is growing its naval strength and building more ships and submarines to control the Indo-Pacific waters. - Opposition to QUAD
China sees QUAD and US policies as efforts to contain its rise, and often calls them “Asia NATO”.
India – Strategic Interests and Role
- Countering China
India is facing border tensions with China (e.g., Ladakh 2020 clashes) and is concerned about China’s influence in the Indian Ocean. - Act East Policy
India is increasing ties with Southeast Asian countries, Japan, and Australia to expand its role in the Indo-Pacific. - QUAD Membership
India is an active member of QUAD and takes part in joint military exercises like Malabar. - Maritime Security
India wants to protect its shipping lanes and trade routes that pass through the Indo-Pacific.
Japan – Strategic Interests and Role
- China Threat
Japan feels threatened by China’s actions in the East China Sea, especially near the Senkaku Islands. - Support for US Presence
Japan supports a strong US military presence in the region and hosts several US bases. - Technology and Aid
Japan uses its economic power and technology to strengthen ties with ASEAN countries and counter China’s BRI. - Active QUAD Member
Japan is a strong supporter of QUAD and promotes a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.
Australia – Strategic Interests and Role
- Alliance with the US
Australia is a close US ally and supports American policies in the Indo-Pacific. - Concern about China
Australia has economic ties with China but is also worried about China’s political interference and military expansion. - Investment in Defense
Australia is increasing its defense budget and working with the US and UK under the AUKUS pact to get nuclear-powered submarines. - Role in QUAD
Australia uses QUAD to balance China’s power and support free navigation and regional security.
Conclusion
The Indo-Pacific has become a new battlefield of global powers. While the US, India, Japan, and Australia are working together to maintain a balance and counter China, China is pushing hard to become the dominant power. This competition affects global trade, military alliances, and regional peace. Pakistan must also keep an eye on these developments as they impact CPEC and regional security.
Question 7
Discuss in detail the role of OIC, Arab league and GCC in the Middle East crises and conflicts.
Introduction
The Middle East is a region full of political instability, wars, and conflicts, like the Palestine-Israel issue, Yemen crisis, Syrian civil war, and Iran-Saudi rivalry. Regional and international organizations such as the OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation), Arab League, and GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) were formed to promote unity, cooperation, and peace among Muslim and Arab states. However, their roles in solving these crises have been limited and often criticized.
Role of OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation)
- Support for Palestine
OIC strongly supports the Palestinian cause and condemns Israeli occupation. It holds regular summits and resolutions, but has failed to take practical steps to stop Israeli aggression. - Condemns Islamophobia & Conflicts
The OIC often issues statements against Islamophobia, foreign interventions in Muslim countries, and wars like those in Syria and Yemen. - Limited Action in Crises
Despite being the second-largest international organization after the UN, OIC has not played a major role in stopping wars or resolving political disputes in the Muslim world. - Divided Membership
Due to political differences between Saudi Arabia, Iran, Turkey, and others, OIC remains divided and weak in taking joint action.
Role of Arab League
- Formation and Objectives
Formed in 1945, the Arab League aims to promote Arab unity and political cooperation. It includes 22 Arab countries. - Failure in Syrian Civil War
The Arab League suspended Syria’s membership in 2011 but failed to stop the civil war or propose any strong peace plan. It was divided over support for Bashar al-Assad. - Weak Role in Libya and Yemen
The League has also failed to resolve the Libyan conflict, and its involvement in Yemen has been mostly one-sided, supporting the Saudi-led coalition without offering a real peace process. - Lack of Power
Arab League mostly passes non-binding resolutions and lacks the military or political power to enforce decisions.
Role of GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council)
- Formed for Economic and Security Cooperation
GCC includes six Gulf states: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. It was formed in 1981 for economic, political, and defense cooperation. - Involvement in Yemen Conflict
Saudi Arabia and UAE, both members of GCC, are leading the military intervention in Yemen, while Oman stayed neutral. This has created division within GCC. - Internal Crisis (Qatar Blockade)
In 2017, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Bahrain cut ties with Qatar, accusing it of supporting terrorism. This crisis showed serious cracks inside the GCC. The issue was resolved in 2021, but trust is still weak. - Iran-Saudi Rivalry
GCC generally supports Saudi Arabia’s position against Iran. The Iran-Saudi rivalry continues to affect peace in countries like Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon.
Analysis: Why These Organizations Failed?
- Internal Divisions
Different interests of powerful member states like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Iran, and Turkey stop these bodies from acting together. - Dependence on Western Powers
Most of these countries rely on the USA or Western countries for security, which affects their independent decision-making. - Lack of Strong Leadership
No country is willing to take neutral and strong leadership to unite the Muslim and Arab world. - No Enforcement Power
These organizations do not have military or financial tools to enforce peace agreements or stop wars.
Conclusion
OIC, Arab League, and GCC were created to protect the interests of Muslim and Arab countries, but their performance during Middle East crises has been disappointing. Divisions, lack of unity, and external influence have made them weak and ineffective. To play a real role in peace and stability, these organizations need reforms, unity, and a stronger commitment to solving regional conflicts without depending on outsiders.
Question 8
In view of the evolving global alignments and changing nature of major-power relationships, what is the future of globalism and multilateralism? Discuss with examples.
Introduction
Globalism and multilateralism are about countries working together through cooperation, trade, diplomacy, and global institutions like the UN, WTO, and WHO. But now, the world is seeing a shift where major powers are becoming more self-centered, focusing on national interests over global unity. Conflicts, rivalries, trade wars, and the rise of populism have challenged the idea of one connected world. Still, multilateralism is not dead—it just needs reform and stronger commitment.
What Is Globalism and Multilateralism?
- Globalism means increasing connections and integration between countries in economy, culture, politics, and environment.
- Multilateralism is when three or more countries work together on common issues like trade, climate change, peacekeeping, etc.
Changing Nature of Major-Power Relationships
- US-China Rivalry
The world is moving towards a bi-polar competition. The US and China are competing in trade, tech, military, and ideology. This rivalry is dividing the world into blocs, making cooperation harder. - Russia-West Tensions
Due to the Ukraine War, Russia has been isolated by the West. Sanctions and NATO expansion have increased tensions, pushing Russia closer to China. - Weakening of International Institutions
Powerful countries are ignoring or bypassing global institutions. For example, the US left WHO and Paris Climate Deal under Trump (later rejoined by Biden). WTO is losing its authority due to trade wars. - Rise of Populism and Nationalism
Countries like the US (America First), UK (Brexit), and India are putting national interests first, which goes against the spirit of globalism. - Alliances over Institutions
Instead of depending on global platforms, countries are forming mini-alliances like QUAD, AUKUS, BRICS, etc. This shows a shift from multilateralism to interest-based partnerships.
Current Challenges to Globalism
- Trade Wars – US-China trade war disturbed global supply chains. Countries are moving towards protectionism.
- Pandemics like COVID-19 – Instead of working together, many countries went for vaccine nationalism and closed borders.
- Climate Change – Despite global agreements, major polluters like the US, China, and India are not fully committed to reducing emissions.
- Technology Competition – Countries are banning apps, restricting imports (like Huawei, TikTok) and building digital walls.
Hope for the Future of Multilateralism
- Climate Agreements
Despite setbacks, deals like the Paris Climate Accord show that countries still understand the need to work together. - UN Peacekeeping and Aid Programs
The UN and other bodies are still active in disaster relief, health, and conflict zones. - Global Economic Forums
Platforms like G20, IMF, and World Bank continue to bring countries together on economic issues. - BRICS Expansion
New alliances like BRICS+ aim to create a multi-polar world, giving more countries a voice in global matters.
Examples
- Brexit – UK leaving the EU was a big blow to globalism.
- COVID-19 Vaccines – COVAX (a multilateral effort) struggled because rich countries bought most vaccines for themselves.
- Ukraine War – NATO and the West working together shows regional multilateralism, but the UN Security Council failed to stop the war.
Conclusion
The world is changing fast, and major powers are focusing more on competition than cooperation. But global problems like climate change, terrorism, pandemics, and poverty cannot be solved alone. Globalism and multilateralism may be under pressure, but they are still needed. The future depends on reforming global institutions, promoting fairer cooperation, and building trust among nations.
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