Why does international

conflicts occur?

This is because…Countries want to protect their national interests.

When countries do not agree with one another on issue which might threaten their national interests, conflicts will occur.

Disagreements can arise when countries fight over territories, compete over scare resources, or when they do not share the same ideological beliefs.

So.. What are the different types of

conflicts ?

Competing Territory

Controlling certain tracts of land can mean a lot to a country especially if the land is important to its defence and national pride.

Sometimes, countries wanted to extend their power by taking over territories which do not belong to them.

If the territory that is invaded is claimed by two or more countries, it can result in conflict among the countries.

Conflict over border India inherited the frontier drawn by the British when it gained its independence in 1947. However china protested that it had not agreed to the frontier. China contested India’s presence in several localities along their border. Later, China announced the building of the Aksai Chin Road. Tension began to rise between India and China. China had occupied more territories which India regarded as its own. Soon, war broke off between the two countries.

Conflict over scarce resources

Natural resources such as land, water are unequally distributed. Countries with fewer resources might use force to gain more, especially when these resources are necessary for survival and economic growth.

Conflict over ideological differences

Different values and beliefs among countries may cause conflicts. Countries pursuing different ideologies can come into conflict if they see that their ideological beliefs are threatened.

How do countries manage international conflicts??

Most countries would try to resolve their conflicts with one another through negotiating peace agreements or treaties.

Countries may sometimes have to compromise to ensure that the conflict does not escalate. In some cases, UN may be called in to settle the disputes.

Conflicts that are not resolved may eventually led to a war.

1. Criticise each other openly2. Reduce trade with the conflicting country as a form of

protest3. Resolve though peaceful negotiations4. Seek help and support from regional and international

organisations to resolve conflict5. Start a war6. Display the strength of their military force through

military exercises as a warning to other countries7. Cut diplomatic ties with each other8. Protest to the other country though their

representative

Examples of how countries response to conflicts:

Why do some

countries ultimately

resorted to war to

“solve” the conflicts?

Thinking Point…

Of all of the examples of solutions, which one do you think is the most effective one?

Why was international organisations unable to solve international conflicts on some occasions?

Watch the following video