Class 12 Political Science Chapter 4 Notes – Alternative Centres of Power Notes

Introduction

After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, the world witnessed the emergence of new centers of power. The Class 12 Political Science Chapter 4 Notes highlight how different countries and organizations came together to balance the dominance of the United States. These organizations aimed to promote cooperation, development, and peace while ensuring political and economic stability globally.

Meaning of New Centres of Power

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, America became the world’s superpower. However, several organizations such as the European Union (EU), ASEAN, BRICS, and SAARC emerged as alternative centers of power. These regional groups worked to limit the dominance of the U.S. and strengthen cooperation among member nations both politically and economically.

Regional Organizations

A regional organization is a voluntary association of sovereign countries located in a specific area with shared interests. Their primary goal is not aggression but cooperation and peacebuilding. Examples include the European Union, ASEAN, BRICS, and SAARC, involving nations like Russia, China, Japan, India, and South Korea.

Objectives of Regional Organizations:

• Strengthen unity among member countries.

• Promote regional cooperation and economic growth.

• Settle disputes peacefully through mutual negotiation.

• Enhance peace and harmony in the region.

The European Union (EU)

The European Union, established in 1992, is headquartered in Belgium and consists of 28 member countries. It has its own flag, anthem, foundation day, and common currency — the Euro. Its goals include promoting a uniform foreign and security policy, cooperation on internal affairs, and visa-free movement among members.

Features of the European Union:
The EU is a strong political, military, and economic power. In 2005, its GDP exceeded $12,000 billion, surpassing the U.S. The Euro challenges the dominance of the U.S. dollar, and the EU’s trade share is three times higher than that of America. Two EU countries, the UK and France, are permanent members of the UN Security Council.

Drawbacks of the EU:
Despite its strengths, member nations often pursue separate foreign and defense policies. For instance, Britain supported the U.S. in Iraq, while France and Germany opposed it. Some countries, like Denmark and Sweden, refused to adopt the Euro. Britain eventually left the EU in January 2020 after the Brexit referendum in 2016.

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

The ASEAN was established on 8 August 1967 through the Bangkok Declaration with its headquarters in Jakarta, Indonesia. Founding members included Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Later, countries like Vietnam, Brunei, Laos, and Myanmar joined.

Objectives of ASEAN:

• Accelerate economic and social development.

• Promote peace and stability in the region.

• Encourage cooperation through dialogue and mutual understanding.

ASEAN emphasizes non-confrontational and cooperative approaches. Its three main pillars are the Security Community, Economic Community, and Socio-Cultural Community, all working to strengthen unity and regional integration.

ASEAN and India:
India adopted the Look East Policy in 1991, leading to closer ties with ASEAN countries. In 2009, India signed a Free Trade Agreement with ASEAN, which came into effect in 2010. Later, India introduced the Act East Policy, deepening partnerships in trade, security, and cultural exchange.

China’s Development under Mao

The Class 12 Political Science Chapter 4 Notes explain that under Mao Zedong’s leadership, China established communist rule in 1949 and pursued rapid industrialization. However, traditional agriculture and population growth created economic challenges. While China achieved progress in employment and health services, problems like corruption, gender inequality, and environmental damage persisted.

India–China Relations

India’s relations with China have seen both conflict and cooperation. Key events include:

1. China’s annexation of Tibet in 1950 strained ties.

2. The 1962 Indo-China War further worsened relations.

3. China’s support for Pakistan and opposition to India’s nuclear tests created distrust.

4. Despite differences, relations improved after 1976.

5. In 1988, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s visit to China marked a new era of cooperation.

6. Bilateral trade has since grown rapidly, with multiple agreements on science, technology, and border trade.

Conclusion

The Class 12 Political Science Chapter 4 Notes show how regional organizations and emerging powers reshaped global politics after the Cold War. The European Union, ASEAN, China, and India have become influential centers that promote peace, cooperation, and balanced growth. Understanding these developments helps students grasp how global power has become more multipolar, emphasizing dialogue and regional collaboration over dominance.

Class 12 Political Science Chapter 4 Notes highlight the importance of global cooperation for peace and development. International organizations like the UN play a key role in ensuring harmony and security across nations. Understanding these concepts helps students appreciate the need for unity in solving global challenges.

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