Category: EPIS Basics
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International Atomic Energy Agency
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an international organisation that seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy while preventing its misuse for military purposes. The IAEA monitors nuclear activities, inspects facilities, and helps to ensure the international safeguards and non-proliferation agreements. The agency also provides technical assistance to member states in nuclear…
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Nuclear Triad
The nuclear triad describes the capability of a military to deliver nuclear warheads via bombers, in missile silos on land and submarines. Nuclear missiles based on land are often classified as Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs). Submarines may carry Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs) armed with nuclear warheads. The nuclear triad ensures an enemy cannot eliminate all…
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English School Theory
The English School Theory of International Relations aims to reconcile Realism and Idealism, emphasizing power and sovereignty alongside norms and institutions’ impact on global outcomes. It highlights the evolution of an international society based on common values, rules, and shared interests, fostering cooperation while acknowledging the enduring significance of state power.
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Peace of Westphalia
The Peace of Westphalia, signed in the German cities of Münster and Osnabrück, ended the 30-Year War. Some scholars have argued that the treaty established the principles of legal equality and states having exclusive sovereignty over their territories. However, critics have doubted whether these principles were ever widely accepted and whether they originated from the…
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Centre of Gravity
Besides his famous trinities describing the nature of war, Clausewitz introduced the concept of the “centre of gravity.” Initially referring to the point where the enemy’s forces were concentrated, Clausewitz later revised the concept. In its later iteration, “centre of gravity” refers to the source of the enemy’s power, that being its population and morale.
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Clausewitz’s Trinities
The Prussian general and military strategist Carl von Clausewitz described war as a trinity of passion, chance, and reason. Passion resembles intrinsic hatred and is often associated with the population. Reason is likely attributed to the government. Clausewitz affiliated chance with the military.
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Neoliberalism
Neoliberalism is a strand of liberalism that concentrates on economic aspects. While both liberalism and neoliberalism emphasise cooperation among state and the role of international institutions, neoliberalism specifically prioritises the benefits of economic globalisation and market-oriented policies. It places a huge emphasis on mechanisms such as deregulation, privatisation, and free markets to promote economic growth…
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World Health Organisation
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is a UN agency responsible for global public health. It is critical in disease prevention and coordinating responses to health emergencies. Consequently, the WHO not only provides aid to countries but also monitors global health and develops health standards. Amongst the WHO’s most notable achievements lie the eradication of smallpox…
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United Nations Security Council
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the principal organs of the UN, responsible for ensuring international peace and security. It consists of 15 member states and 5 permanent members, and the permanent members possess veto power on every proposal. The Security Council has authority to impose sanctions, authorise peacekeeping missions, and take…
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Interpol
The International Criminal Police Organisation, known as Interpol, is an international organization that facilitates police cooperation and crime control. It provides investigative support and expertise focusing on three main areas of transnational crime: terrorism, cybercrime, and organized crime. Interpol promotes cooperation among national law enforcement agencies by coordinating criminal databases and communication networks.