Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
3) Instead of unilateral military action, Syria needs an aggressive multilateral diplomacy to find an immediate end to violence and more so to find a long-lasting political solution. Comment. (250 Words)
Why this question
Syria has been involved in a bloody uprising in which the anti-government forces are supported by western powers and Saudi Arabia while the pro-government forces are supported by Russia and Iran- each with their own agendas – are involved, making the situation far more complex and prolonging the fighting.They have been accused of fostering hatred between Syria’s religious groups, pitching the Sunni Muslim majority against the president’s Shia Alawite sect. Such divisions have led both sides to commit atrocities, torn communities apart and dimmed hopes of peace. Although India is presently not involved in the war, the conflict has the potential to escalate into the third world war, which makes it important for India. This question is related to GS-2 syllabus- India and its neighborhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
Key demand of the question.
The question wants us to present our view upon the need for a plausible and long-lasting solution for the ongoing Syria war. We have to take a stand over military action vs diplomacy here.
Directive word
Comment- we have to take a stand on the issue and present our personal opinion. Besides, we have to put forth facts/ arguments which justify our opinion.
Structure of the answer
Introduction- you can introduce your answer by giving a brief description or the present status of the war.
Body- divide the body into two parts. In one part, present your arguments on why unilateral military action is not the best solution to the ongoing conflict. E.g civilian casualties, more bloodshed, escalation into third world war, need for peace, multilateral interests of different countries etc. You can also take the opposite stand but justifying the same would be very difficult.
In second part, present your arguments in favour of a multilateral diplomatic solution to the problem. E.g multilateral interests involved which can be better negotiated among all stakeholders, initiation of peace efforts, chances of reconciliation, relief and international monitoring is needed to get appraisal of the ground situation.
Conclusion- bind the crux of your arguments and present it as a conclusion with some suggestions added.
