What to focus on? the Million dollar question.

Notes from the Ess

Recommendation.

Remember for SEQ you need only answer ONE question.

Below are all the themes for the ss syllabus.They are

1.Singapore as a nation in the world

2.Understanding Governance

3.Conflict and Harmony in Multi Ethnic society

4.Managing International Relations

5.Sustaining Economic development

6.Facing Challenges and Changes

Since theme one is very important, it is not examined. No question will be tested on that. BUT you must read up on that.

You need to study three themes in order to be able to answer that one question.

When I say study three themes, I mean everything inside each theme. YOU CANNOT AFFORD to drop any sub theme.

I recommend theme 2,4,5. so even if 3 and 6 come out, you can still do the last question which must be from 2,4 or 5 right?

Of course you are free to select other combination like 2,3,4 or 4,5,6 or 2,3,5

Just as long as you study three themes you will be able to answer a least ONE question which is what is required in the exam.

REMEMBER:

1.NO Short Cut

2.Study everything within the theme.

3.Reader beware: I am not responsible for your selection of themes. That responsibility lies in your hand.

Click on the label on the blog to go to eachparticular theme

Theme 1. SINGAPORE AS A NATION IN THE WORLD

New nations face political, social and economic challenges to survive and progress in the international community. They need to stay alert and nimble in responding to these challenges. Singapore tries to overcome these challenges through the leadership and common will of its people and by working with other nations.

How do nations come into being and what challenges do they face?

Nationhood and Its Challenges

• What is a nation?

• Challenges faced by new nations such as Singapore

- national identity

- stable government

- social cohesion

- economic development

- defence and security

- diplomacy


Students will be able to:

• explain the concept of nationhood

• discuss challenges faced by new nations

• understand the unique challenges Singapore faced as a newly- independent nation

This theme provides the backdrop for the understanding of subsequent themes and sets Singapore in the context of the world. This theme is non-examinable.


Theme 2.UNDERSTANDING GOVERNANCE

Good governance determines the viability, development and progress of nations. Guided by a set of principles, policies are formulated and implemented to meet the needs of the people and nation. Understanding governance enables us to be aware of the complexities of decision-making in a society and world that faces rapid change.

Why is governance important?

2.1 Policy Process: Formulation and Implementation

2.1.1• Meeting the needs of the people and nation, using the transport policy as an example to examine:

- principles of governance

- roles and responsibilities of the legislature, executive and judiciary

- role of media and feedback channels in the policy process

2.1.2• Case study of Singapore’s population policies to examine policy changes over time

- population policies from the 1970s to the 21st century

- challenges of and responses to ageing population and declining birth rate

2.2.Similar Problems, Different Approaches

2.2.1• A comparative study of public health care policies in Singapore and United Kingdom

- how policies work in different countries

- impact of policies on society and nation

Students will be able to:

• understand the significance of government structure

• recognise the importance of principles of governance in policy formulation and implementation

• evaluate the role of communication channels in policy-making

• recognise that policies change to meet changing needs of society and nation

• recognise that different governments adopt different approaches to solve similar problems

• evaluate the effectiveness of the policies in meeting the health care needs of the people and nation

Theme 3.CONFLICT AND HARMONY IN MULTI-ETHNIC SOCIETIES

Different ethnic, religious and cultural groups contribute to the diversity and richness of multi-ethnic societies. However, it is important to be vigilant against the forces of divisiveness that cause conflict and disintegration of societies. Common bonds should be strengthened to unite the people as a nation

Why is harmony in a multi-ethnic society important to the development and viability of a nation?

3.1 Discord and Disunity

3.1.1• Case studies of Sri Lanka and Northern Ireland

i. - causes of conflict among ethnic and religious groups

ii. - manifestations of conflicts

iii. - impact of conflicts on political, social and economic development

iv. - efforts to resolve the conflicts

3.2 Social Cohesion and Harmony

3.2.1• Case study of Singapore

3.2.1.1- internal and external threats e.g. Race Riots in Singapore, terrorism

3.2.1.2- managing ethnic diversity and its challenges

i. addressing the needs of the different ethnic groups e.g. policy of minority representation

ii. integrating the ethnic groups in society e.g. forging national identity, developing common space


3.2.2• benefits of a harmonious multi-ethnic society

Students will be able to:

• explain why conflicts exist among different ethnic and religious groups

• analyse the political, economic and social impact of ethnic and religious conflicts on the people and nation

• value the need for non-violent approaches like negotiation, mediation and cooperation in resolving conflicts

• explain the internal and external threats to Singapore’s harmony

• recognise the need for ethnic and religious sensitivities and tolerance
• explain how social cohesion and racial and religious harmony can be achieved in a multi-ethnic society

• appreciate living in a multi-ethnic society

Theme 4.MANAGING INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Conflicts among nations exist as countries strive to safeguard their national interests. When deterrent and diplomatic measures fail to resolve conflicts, war can result. World and regional organisations like the United Nations play crucial roles in resolving conflict among nations. World security is further complicated by new threats such as transnational terrorism which is a challenge to all nations in achieving peace and prosperity.

How important is deterrence and diplomacy in maintaining international relations among nations?

4.1 Why Conflicts Exist among Nations

• Causes of international conflicts

4.2 How Singapore Ensures its National Security

• Singapore’s two-pronged approach of deterrence and diplomacy:

4.2.1Deterrence:

i.Total Defence strategy

ii.professional and citizen armed force

iii.defence industries

iv.joint military exercises with other nations

v.multi-agency coordination on security

4.2.2Diplomacy:

i.bilateral and multi-lateral relations

ii. membership in regional and international organisations e.g. ASEAN and UN

4.3 How Conflict in One Region can Affect the Rest of the World

4.3.1• Case Study of Iraq-Kuwait Conflict (1990-91)

- causes of conflict

- role of UN

- impact on the rest of the world

4.3.2• Transnational Terrorism: A new threat to world security

- impact on world and national security

- measures to deal with transnational terrorism




Students will be able to:

• understand why conflicts exist among nations

• recognise the need for a two-pronged approach of deterrence and diplomacy
• explain the need to be self-reliant for Singapore’s security
• recognise the need for coordination among agencies to maintain a high level of vigilance

• understand the role and relevance of regional and international organisations, particularly to small countries
• recognise the importance of international cooperation

analyse causes of conflict

• evaluate role of UN

• evaluate impact of conflict on nations involved and the rest of the world.

• recognise terrorism as a growing challenge to world security
• examine the measures undertaken to deal with transnational terrorism
• understand the impact of terrorism on world and national security

Theme 5. SUSTAINING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Globalisation of the world economy presents new challenges and opportunities to nations. Adopting proactive and effective strategies to remain economically competitive would help the nations to develop and progress in an increasingly competitive world economy.

How do nations sustain their economic development in a globalised world?

5.1 Sustaining Economic Development in a Globalised World

5.1.1• Globalisation and its challenges and opportunities

- scarcity of resources

- globalisation and its effects on national and world economies

- competition for investment and markets e.g. industrial parks, port and air services

- effects on employment and competition for talent

- balancing economic development with environmental management e.g. air pollution and tourism industry in Southeast Asia

5.1.2• Singapore’s strategies for economic development in a globalised world

i. - diversifying the economy

a.manufacturing and services as twin engines of growth e.g. bio-medical research and education

b.venturing abroad e.g. Singtel

ii.- nurturing growth of SMEs e.g. financial assistance

iii.- expanding market reach through economic cooperation e.g. Free Trade Agreements

iv.- managing resources

a.optimising human capital e.g. continuous learning and training, developing innovation and enterprise; attracting and retaining talent

b.optimising landuse e.g. Jurong Island and Downtown Marina projects

Students will be able to:

• understand how scarce resources affect national and world economies
• explain how globalisation creates opportunities and challenges for nations
• understand how environmental management is necessary to ensure economic growth

• explain the need for diversification and establishment of niche industries to maintain competitive edge
• understand the importance of foreign ventures

• appreciate that not all ventures are successful
• recognise that risk-taking is needed for economic growth
• recognise the role of SMEs in economic development
• understand the importance of economic cooperation with other countries
• evaluate the importance of managing resources

Theme 6. FACING CHALLENGES AND CHANGE

Nations that survive and succeed are those that are able to face challenges and develop into viable entities. However, failure to respond to the changing global landscape over time may result in a nation fading into obscurity

What can nations learn from the rise and fall of Venice as a city-state?
Overcoming the Odds and Fading into Obscurity

• Case study of Venice

- factors that led to the rise of Venice e.g. good statesmanship, enterprising spirit

- factors that led to the decline and fall of Venice e.g. corrupt leaders, complacent society, failure to respond to new changes

− lessons for nations

Students will be able to:

• understand how Venice achieved prosperity

• evaluate the factors responsible for the decline and fall of Venice

• draw lessons that nations can learn from the rise and decline of Venice

SBQ :Issue: Effectiveness of United Nations in carrying out its aims

Study the sources carefully, and then answer all the questions.

You may use any of the sources to help you answer the questions, in addition to those sources which you are told to use. In answering the questions you should use your knowledge of the topic to help you interpret and evaluate the sources.

1 (a) Study Source A.


What does Source A tells you about UN's commitment to its aims? Explain your answer. [5]

(b) Study Source B.
How useful is Source B in aiding your understanding of the effectiveness of UN? Explain your answer. [7]

(c) Study Source C.
Does Source C prove that UN has the support of the international community? Explain your answer. [6]

(d) Study Source D and E.
Evaluate the differences between Source D and E. [7]


Issue: Effectiveness of United Nations in carrying out its aims



Background
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate cooperation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress, human rights, and achieving world peace. The UN was founded in 1945 after World War II to stop wars between countries and to provide a platform for dialogue.
There are currently 192 member states, including nearly every recognized independent state in the world. From its headquarters on international territory in New York City, the UN and its specialized agencies decide on substantive and administrative issues in regular meetings held throughout the year. The organization is divided into administrative bodies, primarily:
The General Assembly (the main deliberative assembly);
The Security Council (decides certain resolutions for peace and security);
The Economic and Social Council (assists in promoting international economic and social cooperation and development);
The Secretariat (provides studies, information, and facilities needed by the UN);
The International Court of Justice (the primary judicial organ).
Additional bodies deal with the governance of all other UN System agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).



Source A An abstract from an interview with Lord Robertson, Chairman of the Commission for Global Road Safety, which proposed a global ministerial conference to United Nations.




I am delighted that the UN has today recognised the scale of human suffering and economic loss caused by road traffic deaths and injuries [by approving the proposal]. Now we must ensure that the UN Conference is not just another talking shop, but secures real commitments and takes real action to reverse the tide of global road deaths.




Source B An Abstract from The Times, “Bush deploys hawk as new UN envoy”, dated 8th March 2005

Bush nomination of John Bolton as US Ambassador to the United Nations is seen by many as an aggressive move. Mr Bolton once said:“There is no such thing as the United Nations. There is only the international community, which can only be led by the only remaining superpower, which is the United States." He also stated that "The [UN] Secretariat building in New York has 38 stories. If you lost ten stories today, it wouldn't make a bit of difference."

Source C An abstract of a report on a public poll conducte.d for BBC World Service by international polling company GlobeScan published on World Public Opinion’s website dated 24 January 2006

In 30 of the 32 countries polled, a majority (23 countries) rated the United Nations as having a positive influence. On average 59 percent rated the United Nations as having a positive influence, while just 16 percent rated it as having a negative influence.
However, among the 19 countries that were polled in December 2004 and again in the current poll, the percentage giving the U.N. a positive rating is down an average of 10 points.

Source D An abstract from an article taken from a blog in response to the controversies surrounding UN

Haitian underage girls are now paying for taking help from the UN. They have been sexually exploited by Sri Lankan UN peace-keepers for less than $1. Haitian feminists have now woken up to the problem and are demanding inquires by the UN. Olga Benoit of Haitian Women’s Solidarity recalls another case involving two Pakistani soldiers about two years ago. These men in uniform had raped a mentally challenged woman whom they were supposed to protect.
Poor girls in this horribly impoverished nation are just cattle for both Haitian men and their foreign protectors. Excessively patriarchal Haiti chooses to look the other way when girls are exploited. After all, a dollar is better than no money at all.

Source E Brazilian UN soldiers help a handicapped child as they distribute food and a program of music to celebrate peace in the Cite Soleil slum of Port-au-Prince, 25 April 2007

Try to check the answer after you have done the question.

Study Source A
What does Source A tells you about UN’s commitment to its aims? Explain your answer. (5)

(Note from the Ess: This set of answer only have ICE Inference Content and Explanation. If you got two ICE it is o.k.)

Source A tells me that UN is committed to its aims of fostering cooperation in international law, economic development, social progress.(Inference) Based on Source A, “UN today recognised the scale of human suffering and economic loss caused by approving the proposal”(Content). This shows that when called for action by the global community, UN will take immediate actions. Hence, showing that UN is committed to its cause. (Explanation)

In addition, from Source A, “UN conference is not just another talking shop, but secures real commitments and takes real action to reverse the tide of global road deaths.”(Content) This shows that UN does try to involve leaders in the world to work together in solving global issues. (Inference +explanation)

Source A shows that UN may sometime falter in carrying out its programme to achieve its aims.(Inference) From Source A, ““UN conference is not just another talking shop, but secures real commitments and takes real action to reverse the tide of global road deaths.”(Content) This shows that sometimes decisions made were not carried out by the member countries. (Explanation)

(Note from the Ess. You can also ICE the POA which means you infer the purpose and get the content and explanation to support your inference. Do not forget the outcome)


The speaker's purpose in saying that he was delighted that the UN has recognised the scale of human suffering is trying to hint (Purpose words) that the UN did not recognised the human suffering in the past. It is said in an ironic tone. He wants the conference to be a real effective (outcome) one instead of "another talking shop" as he does not seems to have enough faith in the UN. He hope that he can" secures real commitments and takes real action to reverse the tide of global road deaths." Therefore Source A tells me that the UN is not totally committed to its aims.

(b) Study Source B
How useful is Source B in aiding your understanding of the effectiveness of UN? Explain your answer. [7]

Yes. Source B is useful in aiding my understanding of the effectiveness of UN. Source B suggests that one of the reasons for UN ineffectiveness was the commitment and support from member countries. From Source B, “Bush nomination of John Bolton to United Nations is seen by many as an aggressive move”. This suggests that one of the problems which UN faces is the support of its member countries. This information suggests that the some of its member countries has its own agenda when sending envoys to UN and they may not be supportive of UN’s stance.

This is further supported by information from Source C, “among 19 countries polled in December 2004 and again in the current poll, the percentage giving the UN a positive rating is down” Since more countries are seeing UN as having a less positive influence. This suggests that they would be less supportive of UN’s actions and decisions. This concurs with that of Source B. Hence, Source B is useful to my understanding of UN limitations.

However, Source B has its limitations. Source B shows comments and reaction from one source. It does not represent the reaction from all member countries. Source B does not represent the extend of UN’s problems.

(Note from the Ess Notice, the Ying Yang (useful and not useful aspect) +cross reference) You must have these three elements to score full marks.

(c)Study Source C. Does Source C prove that UN has the support of the international community? Explain your answer.

(Explain why it does not prove)

No, Source C does not prove that UN has the support of the international community. From Source C, “average 59 percent rated the United Nations as having a positive influence, while just 16 percent rated it as having a negative influence”. This shows that out of the countries polled, there are some which thinks that UN has a negative influence. If these countries do not see UN in a positive light they would be less likely to be supportive of what UN does.

(Cross ref to support)

In addition, cross-referenced against Source D, “Haitian underage girls are now paying for taking help from the UN. They have been sexually exploited by Sri Lankan UN peace-keepers” This shows that UN peacekeepers are not helping the people in need. This agrees with Source C in saying that there are countries which does not see UN as a positive influence. Hence, Source C is unreliable to prove that UN has the support of the international community.

(Explain why it does prove)

However, we can trust Source C that it does prove that UN is getting the support from the international community. As Source C is a factual source, with neutral tone. It does not take side of the UN. It is a report by an international polling company which has no stake in UN. The purpose of the source is to inform the public about the popularity of UN.

(d) Study Source D and E
Evaluate the differences between Source D and E. [7]

Source D and E are similar in identifying the role of the UN peacekeeping troops. (Comparing statement) From Source D, “raped a mentally challenged woman whom they were supposed to protect” and from Source E showing UN soldiers helping a boy by carrying him. Both sources inform us that UN’s role in the countries that they were deployed to is to help the people.

Source D and E are different in assessing the service rendered by UN troops. (comparing statement)

Source D shows that UN peacekeeping troops were a negative addition to the people. From Source D, “they have been sexually exploited by Sri Lankan UN peace-keepers”, these men in uniform had raped a mentally challenged woman whom they were supposed to protect” This shows that instead of helping the people in need, UN soldiers are adding to their misery.

On the other hand, Source E shows that UN soldiers are a positive addition to the people. From Source E, UN soldiers were carrying a handicapped boy. This shows that UN soldiers were doing good in the place that they are helping. Hence, Source D and E are different.

Source D and E are different in their purpose by depicting UN soldiers in different light. (Comparing statement)

Source D’s purpose in to vilify UN soldiers by discussing the ill-behaviours of UN soldiers, the author hopes to highlight the negative behaviours of the soldiers in hope the UN take action against such acts.

On the other hand, Source E is glorifying the works of UN troops by showing UN soldiers doing a good job in the country they are helping. The photographer may be attempting to gather more support for UN.

(Note from the Ess. Notcie the structure of the answer. You have a comparing statement then you find ifnormation in Source D and Source C to support the comparing statement.)

Do you agree that foreign intervention is more important than economic impact on Sri Lankan government’s desire for peace agreement? Explain your answer

Foreign intervention by India helped to promote peace in Sri Lanka. But this is not the only reason. Economic impact of the conflict is very negative and has caused loss of foreign investment.This has also contributed to the Sri Lanka government's desire for peace.

The Sinhalese-Tamil conflict in Sri Lanka attracted the attention of its neighbour, India. It sent its Foreign Minister to Sri Lanka to mediate in a dialogue between the Sinhalese and the Tamils.

India’s intervention was a serious violation of Sri Lanka’s sovereignty. This is because Sri Lanka is an independent country and she had been forced into certain actions by India against its own wishes, showing that it is not totally in control of its own future. For example, in 1987, the Sri Lankan government was forced by India to sign a peace accord with the LTTE. When the peace accord was broken because the LTTE did not surrender their arms, the Indian government ordered Indian troops into Sri Lanka for peacekeeping. This move resulted in even more violence in the country and prolonged the armed conflict. The Sri Lankan government also felt that it has lost complete independence to act on its own, and thus cease to be in control of its own fate.

All these consequences could have caused the Sri Lankan government to deepen its desire for peace agreement as it hope to regain it independence. In its intervention, the Indian government has also sent its Foreign Minister to Sri Lanka to mediate in the dialogue between the Sinhalese and the Tamils. Although the dialogue failed to end the conflict, it has helped to promote peace by forcing the two sides to discuss their problems.

In the riots and armed struggles caused by the conflict, many people are killed. Those killed are usually breadwinners of families, plunging them into poverty and starvation. The ensuing riots and terrorism also resulted in the destruction of factories and businesses, effectively causing even more employment. This vicious cycle of poverty is made worse by the loss of investments from other countries as in times of instability, investors from other countries may not have the confidence to invest in the country. Foreign investment dropped from US$66 million in 1982 to US$39 million in 1983, and a further decline to US$22 million in 1986.

Tourism, one of Sri Lanka’s major income earners, was also seriously damaged by the violent internal conflict. Tourist arrivals steadily decreased after the July 1983 riots. This resulted in a loss of jobs and a fall in foreign exchange earnings. This in turn, affected the economy adversely. There were also lesser funds to develop amenities and facilities for the people, such as transport and housing.

All the above consequences of the conflict have affected the economy of Sri Lankan negatively and thus increased Sri Lankan government’s desire for peace agreement.

Ultimately there is no single reason that can explain sufficiently the reason why the Sri Lanka government has the desire for peace. Both reasons contributed to the peace process. With India's intervention, the Sri Lanka government realised that if it does not work for peace then India may take matters into their own hands and force a peace settlement. At the same time, the continued conflict has hinder economic growth and development and the government knows that only when there is peace will there be development. Therefore both reasons has contributed to the desire for peace.

(Note from the Ess

You must show how the two factors are dependent on each other and therefore both have equal impact on Sri Lankan government for peace agreement.)

How far did resettlement of the Sinhalese to the Tamil areas caused the conflict in Sri Lanka? Explain your answer.

Issue : Reasons for the conflict in Sri Lanka

Given Factor : Resettlement of Sinhalese to the Tamil areas

Alternative Factor :
Citizenship rights
Official Language Act

Rank:

The conflict between the Sinhalese and the Tamils has existed since 1948. This is because the Tamils feel that the Sinhalese-dominated government has been unfair to them in various ways.

.g. The government implemented a policy to provide land for the poor Sinhalese peasants. These peasants were transferred from the densely-populated south western and central areas into Tamil areas. However, the Buddhists monks and the Sri Lankan Army came with the other Sinhalese to the Tamil areas to occupy the land. This caused unhappiness because the Tamils now have to compete with the Sinhalese peasants for land as well as jobs and sales of their products. They thus resented the government and began to oppose the government. Many gave their support to the Tamil Tigers in their opposition against the government and this gave rise to the conflict. There was also resentment against the monks and the Sri Lankan Army and this worsened the relationship between the Tamils and the Sinhalese, increasing the tension and the hostility. Therefore resettlement of the Sinhalese to the Tamil areas caused the conflict in Sri Lanka but it is not the only reason.

For example, in 1948, Sri Lanka granted citizenship to only those who were either born in Sri Lanka or those whose fathers and grandfathers are born there. As a result many Indian Tamils found themselves stateless. Though India tried to help them solve this problem, many Indian Tamils continued to remain stateless in the late 1980s. This caused them to be very unhappy as despite their contribution to the economy, they were not given citizenship rights like voting. They thus supported the Tamil Tigers in their opposition against the government and this caused the conflict. Therefore citizenship rights also contribute to the conflict in Sri Lanka.

Under the British rule the language of administration was English and the Tamils held powerful jobs in the government service because of their good command of English which the Sinhalese did not learn well. However, when the 1956 Official Language Act was passed, Sinhalese became the language of administration. The Tamils held a peaceful demonstration which was however disrupted by the supporters of the Sinhala language. This upset the Tamils as they found that they were unable to secure jobs or be promoted in the government service. They also concluded that peaceful means might not work and that violence might be the answer to the problem. Hence they supported the Tamil Tigers and this caused the conflict. So this is yet another reason that contribute to the conflict in Sri Lanka.

The conflict between Sri Lanka has been going on for a very long time. Citizenship rights used to be an important issue but has now became a secondary concern as in 2003, the Sri Lanka passed a bill that grant citizenship rights to the Tamils. Similarly the Official Language Act that brought about so much unhappiness has been partly resolved. This is because the Sri Lanka government has granted greater recognition to the Tamil language by declaring it the national language, the language of administration in the norther and eastern provinces as well as an official language. Therefore these two factors are no longer the most important causes for the conflict as the Sri Lanka government has made effort to resolve the issue.

However, the resettlement of the Sinhalese to the Tamil areas has not been resolved. This resentment that the Tamil feel over the issue of resettlement has continued to contribute to the conflict. Therefore, this resentment is the most important reason for the causes of the conflict.

(Note from the Ess :The answer should not only provide the reasons why it is the most important factor and but also the reasons why the other two factors are not as important or show a correlation between the three factors.

Award 11 marks for explaining why one factor is the most important factor and why one other factor is not as important and 12 marks for explaining why one factor is the most important and why 2 other factors are not as important.)

(Note from the Ess : This answer is obtained from the specimen papers and mark schemes from the University of Cambridge International Examinations and the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board. Draw your own inference)

Here are three ways in which Singapore can deter aggressors:
it citizen armed force
its defence industry
military co-operation

Which of these is a better way of deterring aggression? Explain your answer.

Issue: Better ways to deter aggressor.

Given factors
i. it citizen armed force
ii. its defence industry
iii. military co-operation

Rank: Both i and ii are equally important as we cannot depend on anyone else for our defence.
Military co-operation is a secondary consideration as today's friends can become tomorrow's enemy.

Singapore is a small country and so the opportunity to attract aggressors is higher as they may think that it is easy to conquer Singapore. Therefore Singapore must have effective and several ways to deter aggressors. She cannot just depend on one deterrence alone. Deterrence refers to measures taken by countries to prevent and protect themselves from threats.

Singapore has a citizen armed forced. In 1967, National Service was introduced and all males over 18 have to do it. This mean they all have military training.

The citizen armed force is an effective way of deterring aggressors. National Services ensures that all able-bodied males receive military training, and even after they have finished their full-time NS, they get more training over the next thirteen years. So in addition to its small regular armed forces, Singapore has a large pool of people who are ready to fight if needed, which means that it is militarily self-reliant, so anyone thinking of attacking us would definitely have to think twice. Therefore having a citizen armed force is one way to deter aggression.

However, Singapore's defence industry is also an important deterrent. We do not want to have to depend on other people for our weapons.We need to be able to make the kinds of equipment that are suitable for our purposes, and to upgrade our equipment like our F5-E fighter jets. Our enemies will then know that whatever happens our forces will be well equipped and will be a formidable opposition to them if they try to attack.

By having a citizen force that has the latest equipments, we would have built up a strong defence force and so it is an effective way of deterring aggression.

However, apart from building up a strong defence force within the country, Singapore also develop friendly ties with the armed forces of other countries. This is done mainly through bilateral and multilateral military agreements, joint military exercises, training programmes and participation in the UN peace mission. These training activities increase cooperation and strengthen ties among the participating countries. In this way, there will be less opportunity for Singapore to come in conflict with other countries which will help to reduce the number of potential aggressors.

Ultimately, having a citizen armed force and having a country's own defence industry are essential and equally important. This is because either one on its own would not be of much use. It is important for Singapore to be self-reliant in both manpower and resources for defence. Having Singapore as soldiers and having Singapore's own weapons will ensure that we have an effective defence force to deter aggression.

Promoting military cooperation plays a secondary and supportive role in deterring aggression because if a country wish to attack Singapore, it will not really take into consideration the past good relationship that it has with Singapore.

Membership in Asean

(Note from the Ess : This answer is obtained from the specimen papers and mark schemes from the University of Cambridge International Examinations and the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board. Draw your own inference)

To what extent is Singapore's membership of ASEAN due to its wish to promote economic development in the region? Explain your answer.

Issue: Reasons for Singapore to join ASEAN

Given Factor : To promote economic development
Alternative Factor: To promote regional peace and security

Rank:
Primary reason : To promote regional peace and security

Secondary reason : to promote economic development.
There must be peace and prosperity in ASEAN before economic development can take place.

The aims and purposes of the ASEAN are: (1) to accelerate economic growth, social progress and cultural development in the region and (2) to promote regional peace and stability.

ASEAN promotes trade between members and encourages outside countries like Japan to invest in the region. Singapore wants to promote economic development in the region because this will increase trade and other forms of economic partnerships, which means there will be more jobs and increase prosperity. An international organization like ASEAN can help countries work together and encourage other countries to invest in the region, so clearly Singapore will want to be a member.

However, this is not the only reason why Singapore is a member of ASEAN.It is really about helping the neighbouring countries in matters of common interest. For example, when the haze situation affected some Southeast Asian countries in 1997, Singapore helped Indonesia in monitoring forest fires through the use of satellite images. By helping Indonesia, Singapore has establish good diplomatic relationship with her neighbours. In this way, regional peace and security can be maintained and even strengthen.

However economic factors and the need to get along with your neighbours are equally important. It stands to reason that if you are enemies with a country, then you will not want to trade with them. So Singapore's membership of ASEAN is not just for one reason. If there is co-operation and friendship between nations on diplomatic matters,then they will be more inclined to share economic interest. Therefore Singapore's membership in ASEAN is due to the twin reason of promoting economic development and regional peace and security.

“Total Defence is best for Singapore’s defence and security.” How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

Issue : Singapore’s defence and security

Given Factor : Total Defence

Alternative Factor 1 : Citizen Army

Alternative Factor 2 : Singapore defence Industry

Ranking: All three are equally important. If any one aspect is missing, it will compromise the security and defence of Singapore.

Singapore’s defence and security is vital to her survival as she is a small country.

One way to ensure Singapore’ defence and security is to promote Total Defence. Total Defence comprises of 5 aspects: Military, Civil, Economic, Social and Psychological Defence. It involves the entire population. Civilian population has to be prepared for its defence and security. Singaporeans deter potential aggressors by showing that all Singaporeans are prepared for defence in all areas. This will present a more united front to the outside world and deter them from wanting to attack Singapore as it would be more challenging. In this way Total Defence is good for Singapore’s defence and security.

However, it is not just Total Defence only but a citizen armed force that protected Singapore. When National Service was introduced, all able-bodied male citizens were called up for a part-time or full-time NS. These soldiers were trained and commanded by a small regular force. Singapore had greater security because Singaporeans learn to defend their own country and develop a sense of loyalty, patriotism and a shared destiny. In addition, the citizen armed force of over 350 thousand soldiers which is operationally ready will help to deter potential aggressors. The armed forces is transformed into an intelligent defence force where the Air Force, Navy and Army operate together as an effective unit. In this way, maintaining an effective citizen armed force is another way to ensure Singapore’s defence and security.

However, the fighting capability of the armed forces can only be enhanced by the presence of the defence industry which helped the Armed Force to develop into an effective fighting force through the use of latest defence technologies, weapons and equipment which other countries may not have. In this way, the security of Singapore is ensured as our level of deterrence is heightened and our enemy would think twice before they plan to attack Singapore.In conclusion, Total Defence is not the best way for Singapore’s defence and security. Although Total Defence involved more people in the defence of Singapore, Singapore must also ensure that she has an effective fight force with up-to-date defence technology. Only when these three aspects are equally developed can Singapore’s defence and security be ensured. All three are equally important. If any one aspect is missing, it will compromise the security and defence of Singapore.