Past Paper of International Relations CSS 2022
Download the IR CSS Past Paper 2022. The CSS (Central Superior Services) Exam is a gateway to joining Pakistan’s elite civil services. Among the most chosen optional subjects is International Relations (IR), known for its relevance to current affairs, global politics, and its overlap with other compulsory subjects.

In this post, we’re sharing the CSS International Relations 2022 paper in PDF format along with a quick breakdown of the paper’s pattern, themes, and preparation tips.
Why Choose International Relations for CSS?
International Relations is a 200-mark optional subject (Paper-I and Paper-II). It’s widely selected due to:
- Strong linkages with Essay, Current Affairs, and Pakistan Affairs papers.
- Its dynamic nature involving international politics, foreign policy, and global organizations.
- High-scoring potential if approached strategically.
Overview of CSS IR Paper 2022
The CSS IR Paper 2022 tested aspirants on both their conceptual knowledge and analytical skills. Below are the highlights from both papers.
Paper I Key Focus Areas
- Core IR theories and thinkers.
- Conceptual and critical questions such as:
- Power transition and balance of power theory.
- Role of non-state actors in international politics.
- Globalization and its discontents.
Paper II Key Focus Areas
- Emphasis on current geopolitical events.
- Pakistan’s relations with global and regional powers.
- Topics included:
- Evolving US foreign policy under Biden administration.
- Impact of Afghan Taliban takeover on regional stability.
- Role of China in reshaping global power dynamics.
- Kashmir issue in the context of international law.
About the CSS
The CSS (Central Superior Services) Competitive Examination is a rigorous federal-level test administered by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) to select candidates for prestigious civil service roles across Pakistan. The exam’s rules and regulations, covering age limits, eligibility, subjects, and quotas, are detailed in the official CSS Rules section on the FPSC’s website.
The CSS Exam Rules, issued by FPSC Pakistan, outline eligibility criteria, age limits (21–30 years), and a maximum of three attempts for candidates. The exam includes written tests, a medical exam, a psychological assessment, and an interview. Rules also define quotas, disqualification grounds, and subject selection for a fair recruitment process.
Preparation Tips Based on 2022 Paper
- Master the basics: Strong grip on IR theories and terminology.
- Think analytically: Go beyond memorization — focus on cause and effect, comparisons, and application of theory.
- Update regularly: Follow current affairs from sources like Dawn, Al Jazeera, Foreign Affairs, and The Economist.
- Solve past papers: Practice writing concise and critical answers under time constraints.
Download CSS IR 2022 Paper – PDF Format
For your preparation, you can download the original CSS IR Paper 2022 PDF below:
- Always align your answers with current affairs and theoretical frameworks.
- Practice writing time-bound answers using past papers.
- Follow key developments in global politics, economic trends, and regional issues, especially in South Asia.
The IR paper of 2022 was a fair blend of theoretical depth and contemporary analysis, ideal for well-prepared aspirants. If you’re appearing in upcoming CSS exams and have opted for IR, analyzing past papers like this one is essential for aligning your preparation with the FPSC’s expectations.
If you’re planning to opt for IR in your CSS journey, this paper serves as an excellent resource for understanding the pattern, difficulty level, and areas of focus.
