iGCSE Global Citizenship Edexcel

This subject is broken down into 14 topics in 3 modules:

  1. Politics and Governance 4 topics
  2. Economic Development and the Environment 5 topics
  3. Technology 5 topics
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  • 3
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  • 14
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  • 4,988
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  • 39+
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This page was last modified on 28 September 2024.

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Global Citizenship

Politics and Governance

Democracy, State and Sovereignty

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Democracy, State and Sovereignty

Democracy

  • Democracy is a form of government where power lies with the people; all eligible citizens have an equal say in the decisions that affect their lives.
  • Distinguishing features of democracy include free and fair elections, majority rule, protection of minority rights, and respect for basic human rights.
  • Direct democracy involves all citizens making decisions on every issue, while representative democracy involves elected individuals making decisions on behalf of their constituents.
  • Democracy relies on citizen participation, equality, political tolerance, accountability, transparency, regular free and fair elections, and economic freedom.

State

  • A state typically consists of a territory, population, government and sovereignty.
  • The state has the power to enact laws within its territory, and the capacity to enforce them.
  • The state is responsible for maintaining law and order, providing public services, and protecting its citizens.
  • States can have various forms of government such as monarchy, republic, dictatorship, or democracy.

Sovereignty

  • Sovereignty refers to the full right and power of a governing body over itself, without any interference from outside sources.
  • Sovereign states are able to make their own laws, regulate their own territories, control their borders, and conduct their own foreign policy.
  • Sovereignty can be transferred or shared, such as in the case of joining an international organization like the European Union.
  • In international law, respect for sovereignty is a cornerstone principle, but it can be challenged by issues like human rights or instances of international aggression.

The relationship between Democracy, State and Sovereignty

  • In a democratic state, sovereignty is vested in the people. They exercise this through the process of voting and electing their leaders who then make decisions on their behalf.
  • The state functions as the vehicle by which the democratic desires of the public are implemented.
  • Sovereignty allows a democratic state to make and implement laws without external interference.
  • Democracy, state, and sovereignty are strongly interconnected in the functioning of a successful country. Democracy allows citizens to voice their opinions and make decisions, the state implements and enforces these decisions, while sovereignty guarantees that the state can do so independently.

Course material for Global Citizenship, module Politics and Governance, topic Democracy, State and Sovereignty

Global Citizenship

Economic Development and the Environment

The United Nations Sustainble Development Goals

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The United Nations Sustainble Development Goals

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Definition and Purpose of SDGs:

  • The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a collection of 17 global goals set by the United Nations in 2015.
  • The SDGs, also known as the Global Goals, were developed to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.
  • They address various global challenges including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice.

Key SDGs related to Economic Development:

  • Goal 1: No Poverty — Seeks to end poverty in all its forms everywhere by 2030.
  • Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth — Promotes sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
  • Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities — Aims to reduce income inequality within and among countries.
  • Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure — Seeks to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.

Key SDGs related to Environment:

  • Goal 13: Climate Action — Encourages urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
  • Goal 15: Life on Land — Seeks to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
  • Goal 14: Life Below Water — Aims to sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems from pollution.
  • Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — Advocates for sustainable consumption and production patterns.

Importance and Impact of SDGs:

  • The SDGs provide a framework for linking national policies with global strategies for sustainable development.
  • Achieving the SDGs require cooperation among nations and across sectors.
  • Failing to achieve these goals will not only mean continued deprivation and disparities, but also the worsening of existing economic, social, environmental and security issues.
  • The progress towards SDGs has a direct impact on global economy and environment, shaping the future of the planet.

Course material for Global Citizenship, module Economic Development and the Environment, topic The United Nations Sustainble Development Goals

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