Current Affairs
Most Repeated Questions
2000 to 2015


2
Repeated Questions of Current Affairs
for CSS & PMS Exams

DEMOCRACY
1. Give a comprehensive appraisal of the revival of democracy after the interregnum of 1999-2002. (2002)
2. Debate, National Interests VS Democratic Values in the context of recent political and constitutional developments in Pakistan. (2003)
3 .The rise of religious extremism and militancy has become a major challenge to Pakistan’s internal stability and promotion of democracy. Elaborate. (2008)
4. Why most countries of the Muslim world are devoid of democratic governance? What changes would you recommend to make them modern democratic states? (2009)
5. Democracy in Pakistan has remained an elusive dream. Why it has taken so long to develop a road map and follow it with necessary modification? Explain (2009)
6. Discuss the successes and failures of political parties in bringing about a meaningful political change in Pakistan. (2013)
7. Since 1970 every election was accused of rigging, what electoral reforms you will suggest to improve the electoral system of Pakistan? (2015)
8. What are the causes of “Arab Spring”? Identify their impacts on the future politics of the region. (2015)




3
GOVERNANCE
1. Governance through ordinances has been the hallmark of all regimes, democratic or otherwise, in Pakistan. In this context briefly review Pakistan’s political constitutional and judicial landmarks. (2000)
2. Note: Ramification of Taliban’s style governance. (2000)
3. Pakistan is suffering from crises of governance at Institutional level. Sugges
remedies to mitigate this situation. (2007)
4. How can the corruption elimination be made part of the governance systems of Pakistan? (2014)
5. Define the term ‘Good Governance’. What measures the present government should take to improve its performance?
GLOBALIZATION
1. Discuss politics of World Trade Organization and Globalization. (2000)
2. Globalization, as being shaped by the World Trade Organization in a world of un
equal nation-slates, has un-manageable implications. Discuss. (2003)
911 CONSEQUENCES
1. “A single catastrophic event –‘Nine Eleven’ – has turned the entire world topsy
turvy”. Discuss. (2002)





4
2. Give a long-term scenario of Afghanistan and Iraq beyond the perspective of’
Nine Eleven’. (2003)
TERRORISM
1. The phenomenon of terrorism has occupied center stage in today’s world. Highlight the difference between terrorism and a freedom struggle. Discuss the issue of terrorism in the back drop of what is happening in Iraq, Chechnya, Kashmir and Afghanistan (2005)
2. Do you agree that Pakistan’s role in Afghan Jihad against Soviet Union was the root-cause of terrorism in Pakistan or it is a reaction of US invasion of Afghanistan after 9/11 and Pakistan’s U-turn in Afghan policy? (2015)
3. Critically evaluate the counter-terrorism policy of Pakistan and suggest measures to eradicate this evil. (2015)
GLOBAL WARMING, Energy Crisis & POLLUTION
1. What are the factors which contribute to the global warming? What measures have been agreed in the Kyoto protocol to minimize the harmful effects of Pollution? (2007)
2. Critically appreciate the decision making in Pakistan regarding energy crisis in Pakistan. (2014)


5
US POLICY
1. What are the strategic objectives of America’s increased embroilment in South Asia‘s power relationship? (2000) 2. Determine the extent to which the objectives of Americans-led global coalition against the so-called terrorism are achievable. (2001) 3. Critically evaluate the US concerns about the production of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) (2002) 4. How has the conflict between US and Iraq affected them and the world at large? (2002) 5. The new dimensions in Indo US warming up of relations would have serious implications for Pakistan and the world region. Discuss. (2005) 6. America has been bogged down in Iraq and Afghanistan. What would be Americas exit strategy to disengage itself from the prevalent confrontational situation? Discuss. (2005) 7. US accusations against North Korea, Syria and Iran are meant to bring them within the purview of the doctrine of pre-emptive war. Discuss. (2006) 8. Note: Neo-Conservatism in USA (2007) 9. There is a perception that USA is preparing to attack Iran. Discuss the possibilities of this scenario and its implication at global level especially in the Middle East, and on Pakistan. (2007)



6
10. The attack on Iraq by USA was an attempt to control oil resources of the area and redraw the map of Middle East. Having failed in to achieve both objectives, what policy options would be required by USA towards Middle East for peaceful relations? (2009) 11. The strength of Chinese economy is perceived as a threat by USA to its dwindling hegemony. What changes at policy level are required by America for harmonious relations with china? (2009) 12. President Obama’s extended hand of friendship to china ushers in a new era of realist diplomacy in Washington. Highlight the new dimensions of U.S.foreign policy towards People’s Republic of china. (2010) 13. “The new afghan strategy of U.S.,in fact,is a veiled request for their safe exit. It is a gamble.the price of victory will be high and the price of failure is incalculable.” Analyze and comment. (2010)
14. Discuss the impact of AFPAK policy on Pak-US relations. (2014)
15. Discuss the strengths of USA to implement its economic policies Worldwide (2014)
CHINA
1. Note: China’s potential as super power. (2000) 2. The strength of Chinese economy is perceived as a threat by USA to its dwindling hegemony. What changes at policy level are required by America for harmonious relations with china? (2009)



7
3. Note: Chinese aided development Projects in Pakistan. (2010) 4. Discuss impact of economic development of China on World Order. (2012)
PALESTINE
1. Note: Issue of control over Al Quds. (2000) 2. How has the apathetic role of Arab countries complicated the issue of Palestine? (2001) 3. Note: Current Palestinian situation and the Arab neighbours. (2003)
4. Note: Palestine issue. (2008) 5. Note: Jewish settlements in Palestinian territories. (2010)
CENTRAL ASIA
1. Note: Great Game in Central Asia (2008)
2. Note: Economic Potential of Central Asia. (2009)



8
AFGHANISTAN
1. Visualize the post-Taliban Scenario in Afghanistan and discuss its implications for Pakistan. (2001) 2. Give a long-term scenario of Afghanistan and Iraq beyond the perspective of’ Nine Eleven’. (2003)
3. Discuss the impact of AFPAK policy on Pak-US relations. (2014)
4. Do you agree that Pakistan’s role in Afghan Jihad against Soviet Union was the root-cause of terrorism in Pakistan or it is a reaction of US invasion of Afghanistan after 9/11 and Pakistan’s U-turn in Afghan policy? (2015)
ASIA
1. China, India and Pakistan are three Nuclear States in the Asian Continent. Is this a potential threat or strength for the continent? Analyze. (2007) 2. Dynastic Politics in South Asia has become a norm rather than an exception what are the merits and demerits of this political arrangement? Analyze and comment? (2009)
3. In the present day turbulent World, most of the countries in East Asia have been relatively calm and stable in Political & Economic sphere. What reasons would you assign for this success? (2009)
4. Discuss the current socio-political and security situation in Afghanistan and its implications for the neighboring countries. (2013)


9
PAKISTAN
1. The linguistic burden of English, Arabic, Urdu and the mother tongue on learning is a serious issue requiring serious treatment. Analyze. (2000) 2. Longer period of political stability is the requirement to institutionalize reformist polices whereas the same has not been available in Pakistan. Assess the prospects of recent multiple reforms in the context of this statement. (2000) 3. Discuss how Pakistan is affected by political and economic stakes and nuclear concern of Japan in South Asia? (2000) 4. Note: Gender prejudices and women empowerment in Pakistan (2001)
5. Evaluate the structural changes introduced in Pakistan’s economy over the past two years. (2001) 6. “In her foreign policy and trade, Pakistan has never benefited fully from her ideal geostrategic location “. Discuss (2002) 7. Note: Pakistan’s Pollution Problem (2002) 8. Note: Kalabagh Dam (2002), (2006) 9. In what ways India-Israel nexus, India-China bilateral relations and India-Iran geo-economics affect Pakistan? (2003) 10. In the Muslim Societies factors like justice, rejuvenation, education and


10
enlightenment, which determine the conditions of human societies are miserable lacking. Analyze the problems confronting the Muslim world in the light of this statement. (2005) 11. Note: October 8, Post earthquake Scenario (2006) 12. Examine the causes of disturbances in Baluchistan. (2006) 13. Note: Chinese aided development Projects in Pakistan. (2010) 14. The issue of central imp.about corruption and accountability in Pakistan is the increase in corruption despite six decades of efforts to eradicate it. Analyse and comment on the root cause of rampant corruption in the society. (2010) 15. Note: Aghaz-e-haqooq balochistan package. (2010) 16. If India is granted Permanent seat in Security Council; what can be the options available to Pakistan to manage the Indian Hegemony in South Asia? (2011) 17. How Pakistan can reduce foreign debt? Suggest mechanism in Pakistan economy to handle external perspective of Pakistan economy. (2011) 18. Give suggestions to manage political instability in Pakistan (2011) 19. What is climate change impact? What are its implications on Pakistan? How to manage climate change in policy and practice? (2011) 20. Discuss the impact of foreign aid on Pakistan in post 9/11 scenario. (2012) 21. Substantiate Pakistan’s role in Common wealth. (2012)



11
22. How can the energy crisis of Pakistan be resolved? (2012) 23. How the corruption be managed in Pakistan? (2012)
24. Discuss the causes of extremism and militancy in Pakistani society. Suggest ways and means for the state organs to overcome these problems. (2013)
25. Critically evaluate the causes of Energy crisis in Pakistan and its consequences for the economic growth and social fabric in the country. (2013)
26. Critically appreciate the decision making in Pakistan regarding energy crisis in Pakistan. (2014)
27. What is character building? Assess the factor (character building) in education systems of Pakistan and give suggestions for improvement. (2014)
28. How can the corruption elimination be made part of the governance systems of Pakistan? (2014)
29. Since 1970 every election was accused of rigging, what electoral reforms you will suggest to improve the electoral system of Pakistan? (2015)
30. Do you believe that main cause of 2014 floods was Indian ‘water terrorism’ or it was due to awful mismanagement of water resources in Pakistan? (2015)



12
PAKISTAN – US
1. In the current relationship of mutual dependence, American obligations arc minimal while Pakistani ones are substantial Comment. (2003) 2. The US President Bush visit to Pakistan had yielded no positive outcome except for promises and pledges. In the backdrop of changing US mindset former Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali had urged the government to establish more vibrant relations with Iran, Saudi Arabia and China. Comment. (2006) 3. Discuss the various dimensions of Pakistan US relations in the wake of Pakistan’s playing the role as a frontline state against International terrorism. (2008)
PAKISTAN – AFGHANISTAN
1. Note: Pak-Afghan Relations (2006) 2. How far India factor is responsible for the present state of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations? Analyze. (2008) 3. What is AFPAK policy; how to manage its implication on Pakistan? (2011)
4. Discuss the impact of AFPAK policy on Pak-US relations. (2014)
5. Do you agree that Pakistan’s role in Afghan Jihad against Soviet Union was the root-cause of terrorism in Pakistan or it is a reaction of US invasion of Afghanistan after 9/11 and Pakistan’s U-turn in Afghan policy? (2015)


13
PAKISTAN – IRAN
1. Analyze the convergence and divergence of interests in Pakistan –Iran relations since the last two decades. (2005)
PAKISTAN - CHINA
1. Discuss the importance of Pak-China relations. How does this relationship effect the political and security environment in South Asia? (2013)
INDIA
1. Note: Communal riots in India (2002) 2. The amicable solution of Siachen glacier and Sir Creek maritime boundary disputes might harbinger the settlement of the core issue of Kashmir between Pakistan and India. Discuss. (2008) 3. That feasible measures would you suggest to bridge the existing trust deficit between Pakistan and India for the resumption of stalled process of composite dialogue. (2010) 4. If India is granted Permanent seat in Security Council; what can be the options available to Pakistan to manage the Indian Hegemony in South Asia? (2011) 5. Evaluate the significance of water conflict between India and Pakistan in global perspective of climate change. (2012)


14
6. Resolution of Kashmir Issue between India and Pakistan can bring peace and prosperity in the region. Discuss. (2013)
7. Evaluate the significance of water conflict between India and Pakistan in perspective of water management projects in Indian held Kashmir. (2014)
8. Do you believe that main cause of 2014 floods was Indian ‘water terrorism’ or it was due to awful mismanagement of water resources in Pakistan? (2015)
CONSTITUTION
1. Highlight the constitutional issues affecting Pakistan’s politics since the army take-over in October 1999. (2001) 2. Debate, National Interests VS Democratic Values in the context of recent political and constitutional developments in Pakistan. (2003)
PROVINCIAL AUTONOMY
1. How best can the issue of Provincial Autonomy in Pakistan be resolved within a viable Federal Structure? Discuss (2005) 2. “The troubling issue in Pak.pertains to an overbearing centre’s supremacy in the federations and the resulting demand for Provincial autonomy.”discuss. (2010)


15
PAKISTAN EDUCATION
1. Assess the growing impact of information technology on Pakistan’s socio-economic and educational complexion. (2000) 2. Judicious evaluation of examination scripts by the Universities and Boards of Education in Pakistan needs to be ensured. How can it be accomplished? (2001) 3. Countries that recognized the importance of higher education are way ahead of those who have ignored it. What measures would you suggest to upgrade the standard of higher education in Pakistan? (2006) 4. What can be the strategies to reduce dependency of education sector on governmental funding? (2011) 5. Discuss issues in the higher educational system vis-a-vis 18th amendment in Pakistan. (2012)
6. What is character building? Assess the factor (character building) in education systems of Pakistan and give suggestions for improvement. (2014)
7. What is the role of education in character-building of a nation? Highlight major pitfalls in Pakistan’s education systems.


16
GWADAR
1. Sino-Pakistan collaboration on Gwadar Sea opening will have far-reaching economic and geo-strategic consequences. Comment. (2001) 2. The Gwadar Port would have great strategic significance in addition to its vast economic potential not only for the uplift of Baluchistan but for the neighboring countries like China, Afghanistan and Central Asian States, comment. (2005)
UN SECURITY COUNCIL
1. The UN Security Council is regarded as a tool for the veto wielding powers and a debating forum for non permanent members. Make a case for restructuring the Council with special emphasis on judicious distribution of veto power. (2006) 2. If India is granted Permanent seat in Security Council; what can be the options available to Pakistan to manage the Indian Hegemony in South Asia? (2011)
3. Substantiate Pakistan’s role in UN peace keeping missions. (2014)
SCO
1. Note: Shanghai Cooperation Organization (2001) 2. Why Pakistan is desperately seeking full-fledged membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization? (2008) 3. Pakistan provides the natural link between the SCO states to connect the Eurasian





17
heartland with the Arabian sea and South Asia.” Substantiate Pakistan’s claim for the membership of SCO in the view of the above mentioned statement. (2010)
OIC
1. The ongoing anti blasphemy campaign launched by Muslims all over the world and the West’s obduracy not to yield on the issue in the name of freedom of press has put the two on a collision. What role the UN and the OIC can play to prevent recurrence of acts of blasphemy in future? (2006) 2. What are the ground realities inhibiting the capacity of Organization of Islamic conference as an effective body to protect the legitimate interests of Muslim world1? (2003) 3. Analyze the role of OIC in the resolution of problems faced by its members (2002)
4. The organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) has not played and effective role in protecting the rights of member states. How can it become a vibrant organization to achieve its objectives? (2007)
WTO
1. Discuss politics of World Trade Organization and Globalization. (2000)
2. Discuss the potential challenges Pakistan is facing in the WTO regime. (2008)

18
ASEAN
1. Association of the South East Asian Nation (ASEAN) is a success story of regional organization. What lessons SAARC can learn from the experience of ASEAN? (2007) UNO
1. The United Nations Organization is being side-lined by denying the peace-making role that legitimately belonged to her. Examine the statement. (2001) 2. Highlight the factors and forces, which have contributed to sideline the United Nations Organization in terms of its peace and security role. (2003)
SAARC
1. Give a critique of the performance of SAARC since its inception (2002) 2. Association of the South East Asian Nation (ASEAN) is a success story of regional organization. What lessons SAARC can learn from the experience of ASEAN? (2007) 3. Note: Afghanistan is SAARC (2008) 4. Give recommendations to make SAARC an effective organization at regional level keeping in view success of European Union. (2011)


19
OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
1. Note: Expansion of European Union (EU) (2002) 2. Note: NATO’s expansion is Eastern Europe (2008) 3. Note: IMF’s objectives in funding Pakistan. (2000) 4. Note: SAFTA (2008)
PERSONALITIES:
1. Note: Noam Chomsky (2003) 2. Note: Arundhati Roy (2003) 3. Note: Edward Wadic Saeed (2003) 4. Note: Eqbal Ahmcd (not Allama Iqbal) (2003)



20
MISCELLANEOUS SHORT NOTES:

1. Note: Economic consequences or preparation at the World Trade Centre (2001) 2. Note: Aftermath of Agra-Summit (2001) 3. Note: France’s policy on Iraq’s invasion. (2003) 4. Note: Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) Gas Pipelines project. (2006) 5. Note: Human Development (2007) 6. Note: Geneva Convention (2007) 7. Note: Balkanization (2007) 8. Note: Improving Quality of life in Africa (2009) 9. Note: Free Market economy and economic melt down (2009) 10. Note: Economic Potential of Central Asia. (2009) 11. Note: Combating corruption in developing countries (2009) 12. Note: Liberhan commission report. (2010)





COMPILED BY:

ABDUL BARI