What Is International Relations?

International Relations (IR) is the academic and practical study of relationships between countries, including diplomacy, conflict, trade, international organizations, and global issues like human rights and environmental concerns.

What Is Realism in International Relations?

Realism is a theory in International Relations that emphasizes the role of the state, national interest, and military power. It assumes that the international system is anarchic and that states act primarily to preserve their security and power.

Is Global Studies the Same as International Relations?

No, Global Studies is broader than International Relations. While IR focuses mainly on relationships between nations, Global Studies covers a wide range of transnational issues, including culture, environment, and global economics.

What Is International Relations Study?

International Relations study involves analyzing the interactions between states and non-state actors on the global stage. It includes theories, history, policy-making, and current affairs affecting global politics and diplomacy.

What Is State Sovereignty in International Relations?

State sovereignty refers to a state's full right and power to govern itself without external interference. In IR, it is a fundamental principle that influences how states interact and respect each other’s territorial integrity.

Download Past Papers of International Relations CSS 2023 PDF

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Past Papers of International Relations CSS 2023

Download Past Papers of International Relations CSS of 2023. If you’re preparing for the CSS International Relations (IR) Exam, then you’re in the right place. In this post, I’m sharing the official CSS 2023 IR Paper PDF, along with a detailed overview of the key questions to help you prepare smartly and strategically.

What’s Inside the CSS IR 2023 Paper?

The CSS IR paper consists of two papers: Paper-I and Paper-II. Each part includes both MCQs (20 marks) and Subjective Questions (80 marks).

Part-I: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Total Marks: 20

Time Allowed: 30 minutes

Questions are based on key international relations theories, historical events, organizations, treaties, and current global dynamics.

Part-II: Subjective Questions Overview

Paper-I Key Questions

Constructivism vs Realism

Discuss constructivism principles

Compare it with realism using real-world examples

Asymmetrical Warfare

Best policy options to handle asymmetric threats like insurgency and terrorism

IMF’s Role in Developing Countries

Positive vs negative impacts, especially on low-income nations

IAEA and Nuclear Non-Proliferation

Role, significance, and criticism of the IAEA

Global Power Transition

Is the world shifting from unipolarity to multipolarity?

Strategic realignment of global powers

State Sovereignty & Non-Interference

Theoretical background and legal debates

China’s Rise and Global Politics

How China’s emergence affects the global balance of power

Paper-II Key Questions

Ukraine Crisis and U.S. Involvement

Analysis through John Mearsheimer’s lens

Empirical conflict evidence

Indo-Pacific Strategy & Pakistan’s Options

U.S. and Allies’ strategy in the Indo-Pacific

What should Pakistan do in response?

Afghanistan’s Domestic Politics Post-U.S. Withdrawal

Current dynamics

Constraints on Pakistan’s foreign policy

Climate Change Vulnerability

Pakistan’s urgent policy needs for climate resilience

Progress on SDG

Where does Pakistan stand on the Sustainable Development Goals?
Challenges and way forward

Kashmir Dispute Post Article 370 & 35A

Legal and political implications of India’s move

International Financial Institutions as Coercive Tools

Role of FATF, IMF

How can Pakistan protect its interests?

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.