Global Politics

Are you in the process of writing your Global Politics Internal Assessment? Clastify is here to make sure you succeed! See the post below for a 2026 updated checklist and criteria breakdown.&nbsp;&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8"><h2 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:center;" dir="ltr">Global Politics IA Criteria and Checklist &nbsp;</h2> The Global Politics IA contributes to 30% of SL and 20% of HL Grade. 24 points (30 at HL) are drawn from the following criteria:&nbsp; &nbsp;<h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:justify;" dir="ltr">&nbsp;</h3><h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:justify;" dir="ltr">Criterion A: Explanation and justification (4 points)</h3>&nbsp;This criterion looks at how effectively the student identifies and explores the selected political issue. It is also important that the student mentions the importance of the research. Furthermore, the student must demonstrate that the issue is thoughtfully selected.&nbsp;For a maximum of 4 points, the student’s IA: &nbsp;<ul><li>Clearly identifies and explains the political issue, ensuring that the reader understands the issue and its significance.&nbsp;</li><li>Provides a detailed explanation of why the political issue is important and suitable for the project, showing a strong connection to broader political contexts.&nbsp;</li><li>Describes the engagement activities in a clear and logical way, justifying their relevance and how they contribute to the investigation of the political issue.&nbsp;</li><li>Demonstrates a clear link between the political issue and the engagement activities, highlighting their importance in addressing the research question.</li></ul> Check out <a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity/67cb1bc59b4ff5f547138454" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this example</a> for better understanding.&nbsp;<h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:justify;" dir="ltr"> &nbsp;</h3><h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:justify;" dir="ltr">Criterion B: Process (3 points)</h3>&nbsp;<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);display:inline !important;float:none;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;">This criterion assesses how effectively the student has engaged with the research process. The student should demonstrate a thoughtful and organized approach to their inquiry, reflecting on the steps they took to explore the political issue and gather relevant insights.&nbsp;For a maximum of 3 points, the student’s IA: &nbsp;<ul><li>Provides clear evidence of a well-organized and planned research process.&nbsp;</li><li>Demonstrates that sufficient steps were taken to engage with the political issue and gather relevant information.&nbsp;</li><li>Shows a logical progression in the research, with clear documentation of the methods and sources used.&nbsp;</li><li>Includes evidence of active engagement with the political issue, ensuring that the research is thorough and well-executed.</li></ul> Check out a good example <a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity/67cb1c1e9b4ff5f547145660" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>. &nbsp;<pre style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;" dir="ltr"><code class="language-plaintext">CAROUSEL</code></pre> <meta charset="utf-8"><h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:justify;" dir="ltr">Criterion C: Analysis and synthesis (8 points)</h3> In order to satisfy this criterion, the student must critically analyse the political issue, while demonstrating a strong understanding of the course material. The bulk of the marks for this section are awarded for critical analysis so it is imperative that students avoid being descriptive. Furthermore, the analysis should be well-rounded and insightful.&nbsp;For a maximum of 8 points, the student’s IA: &nbsp;<ul><li>Provides a predominantly analytical report that avoids being overly descriptive.&nbsp;</li><li>Demonstrates a thorough understanding of relevant course content and applies it effectively to the political issue.&nbsp;</li><li>Offers a clear and well-structured analysis of the political issue, addressing its key components and implications.&nbsp;</li><li>Effectively synthesizes different perspectives from stakeholders and sources, integrating them into a coherent and comprehensive analysis of the issue.&nbsp;</li><li>Shows critical thinking by making connections between the political issue and broader political theories or concepts.</li></ul> Click <a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity/67cb1c5a9b4ff5f547146a9c" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a> for a strong example.&nbsp; <meta charset="utf-8"><h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;" dir="ltr">&nbsp;</h3><h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;" dir="ltr">Criterion D: Evaluation and reflection (6 points)</h3>&nbsp;To satisfy this criterion, students must demonstrate their ability to critically reflect on their research and engagement process. Students should show self-awareness by considering their biases regarding the issue. Additionally, they should discuss the things that they have learned thanks to the investigation.&nbsp; &nbsp;For a maximum of 6 points, the IA:&nbsp;<ul><li>Clearly explains their personal position or biases toward the political issue, demonstrating self-awareness.&nbsp;</li><li>Critically evaluates the research and engagement activities, discussing their strengths, limitations, and relevance.&nbsp;</li><li>Reflects thoroughly on their learning experience, explaining how the engagement project has enhanced their understanding of the political issue.&nbsp;</li><li>Demonstrates critical thinking by assessing the effectiveness and impact of the research and engagement process.</li></ul>&nbsp;You can refer to <a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity/67cb1d019b4ff5f54714a934" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this IA</a>.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Criterion E: Communication (3 points)</h3>&nbsp;This criterion assesses how clearly and effectively the student communicates their findings and ideas in the report. The information should be presented in a coherent way, making it easy for the reader to follow.&nbsp;&nbsp;For a maximum of 3 points, IA:<ul><li>Effectively communicates all the presented information and points, ensuring clarity and coherence.&nbsp;</li><li>Is well-organized, with a logical structure that supports the reader's understanding of the document.&nbsp;</li><li>Presents ideas and arguments in a clear and concise manner, making it easy for the reader to follow the flow of the report.</li></ul>&nbsp;You can refer to <a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity/67cb1d019b4ff5f54714a934" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this sample</a>.<h3 style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</h3><h3 style="text-align:justify;">Criterion F: Recommendation (HL only) (6 points)</h3>&nbsp;This criterion is relevant only to those pursuing Global Politics at Higher Level. This criterion looks at the student's ability to offer a thoughtful and practical recommendation in the final section of their IA. The student should present a clear and achievable solution or course of action. They should also consider any potential implications or challenges related to the recommendation.&nbsp;For a maximum of 6 points, the student’s IA:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li>Provides an effective recommendation that directly addresses the political issue described in the report.&nbsp;</li><li>Identifies and clearly explains any possible implications or challenges related to the recommendation.&nbsp;</li><li>Demonstrates critical thinking by assessing the feasibility and potential impact of the recommendation on the political issue.&nbsp;</li><li>Shows a deep understanding of the issue by recognizing the complexities involved in implementing the recommendation.</li></ul>&nbsp;Make sure to check out <a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity/67cb1bc59b4ff5f547138454" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this example</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of <a href="/ia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IA</a>, <a href="/ee" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EE </a>and <a href="/tok" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TOK </a>exemplars available at <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify </a>and other guides available on our <a href="/blog" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">blog</a>. <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;display:inline !important;float:none;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:pre-wrap;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">For professional and reliable feedback on your internal assessment, consider utilizing our <a href="/review" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;display:inline !important;float:none;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:pre-wrap;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Review service</a><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;display:inline !important;float:none;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:pre-wrap;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">. 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A comprehensive guide to Global Politics IA criteria along with a checklist [2026 updated]. 

Global Politics IA Criteria and Checklist [2026 updated]

Are you looking for tips on meeting the Global Politics EE criteria? You're in the right place! Based on the extensive experience in revising IB coursework, Clastify prepared this guide including a checklist for each criterion.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">Global Politics EE Criteria and Checklist</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Extended essays are graded for 34 points using the following criteria:&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Criterion A: Focus and method - 6 points</h3>&nbsp;This part focuses on the topic, research question, and methodology. What is especially important in case of Global Politics EE is the contemporary rule - the topic must refer to events that occurred during the student's lifetime (references to historical events are accepted under specific circumstances). After deciding on the topic, state a focused research question that will guide your analysis. Describe the appointed methodology. You will mainly base your analysis on secondary sources, so explain their choice and make sure that they are a reliable source of information. &nbsp; For a maximum of 6 points:<ul><li>Choose a contemporary global political issue, and explain its significance and relevance for investigation.</li><li>The chosen topic must be articulated as a specific research question, aligning with the theoretical frameworks and terminology of global politics.</li><li>Justify methodological choices and select relevant sources such as case studies, comparative analysis, interviews, literature reviews, or quantitative data analysis.</li><li>Ensure sources and methods support the development of arguments.</li><li>Effective planning is evidenced by a well-focused research question, a comprehensive selection of sources, and suitable research methods.</li></ul> Check out <a href="/ee/global-politics/64c1631cf8603e0013d658b4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this EE</a> for inspiration.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Criterion B: Knowledge and understanding - 6 points&nbsp;</h3> To score from this criterion you must showcase your understanding and well describe the context of the study. Correctly employ the established political concepts and use proper terminology. When analysing sources you must take into account different factors that could have influenced the understanding of the political situation by the author. What is also important, is demonstrating what have you learned in the essay-writing process.&nbsp; For a maximum of 6 points:&nbsp;<ul><li>Establish connections between the research question and global political context, including institutions, actors, and theories.</li><li>Show awareness of social and cultural influences on political understanding.</li><li>Use terminology and concepts accurately and provide clarification where needed.</li><li>Analyze knowledge gained from selected approaches and sources to form arguments and conclusions.</li></ul> <a href="/ee/global-politics/64bd338b50e28d001316f41e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">This exemplar</a> is worth looking at.&nbsp; &nbsp;<pre><code class="language-plaintext">
CAROUSEL</code></pre><h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Criterion C: Critical analysis - 12 points</h3> This criterion, contributing to a significant portion of your grade includes the research, analysis, discussion, and evaluation. Don't make your EE overly-descriptive, it must show evidence of analytical skills. Base your arguments on researched data and its interpretation. Also, include elements of evaluation throughout the entire essay. Remember that the conclusion must answer the research question based on the presented evidence without introducing new information.&nbsp; For a maximum of 12 points:<ul><li>Engage critically with a contemporary political issue using relevant approaches, techniques, and sources.</li><li>Construct, present, and support a specific argument or position in response to the research question.</li><li>Support analysis with specific, relevant material chosen from research, ensuring alignment with the research question.</li><li>Avoid wholly narrative or descriptive essays, as they lack evidence of analytical skills.</li><li>Develop a reasoned argument based on research, supported by evidence and culminating in conclusions.</li><li>Ensure conclusions align with presented evidence, refrain from introducing new material, and consider questions for further study.</li></ul> Read <a href="/ee/global-politics/64bedb9bf8603e0013d605c4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this essay</a> to get a glimpse of the matter.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Criterion D: Presentation - 4 points</h3>&nbsp;Presentation of your essay should facilitate reader comprehension, therefore you should work on the structure and layout for them to adhere to the academic standards. This includes proper referencing and acknowledging sources in the bibliography. Divide the extended essay into labeled sections and subsections that can be found at the beginning in the table of contents along with page numbering. Also, keep in mind that irrelevant material detracts from the essay's quality. For a maximum of 4 points:<ul><li>The essay utilizes a structured layout with clear headings to aid the organization without distracting from the argument.</li><li>The title page, table of contents, page numbers, etc contribute to the quality of the presentation.</li><li>The inclusion of charts, tables, and images within the essay body directly supports or clarifies the argument.&nbsp;</li><li>All essential content relevant to analysis, discussion, and evaluation is in the main essay body. Appendices should be used wisely.&nbsp;</li></ul> See<a href="/ee/global-politics/64dd4529faee220013009bcc" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> this EE </a>for reference.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Criterion E: Engagement - 6 points&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(33, 43, 54);font-family:&quot;Public Sans&quot;, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.9 !important;margin-bottom:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:justify;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Reflections after the meetings with your supervisor also contribute to your grade, mainly the research focus, planning, and process. Effective reflection highlights the journey the student has engaged in through the investigation. It must provide the examiner with an insight into student thinking, creativity, and originality within the research process.&nbsp;Moreover, you must demonstrate evidence of critical and reflective thinking that goes beyond simply describing the procedures that have been followed.&nbsp; For a maximum of 6 points:&nbsp;<ul><li>Students are expected to reflect on decision-making, planning, and approach used in completing the essay, demonstrating rationale and skills developed.</li><li>Reflections should encompass strategies chosen, learning skills developed, conceptual understandings, setbacks faced, emerging questions, and potential improvements for future research.</li><li>Effective reflection showcases critical and reflective thinking, providing insight into student creativity, originality, and learning throughout the research process.</li></ul> We are hoping that you found this guide useful! Remember that you can submit your extended essay for <a href="/review" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Review</a>. It's a 100% safe way to receive feedback from experienced reviewers.&nbsp; &nbsp;

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A comprehensive guide on Global Politics extended essay criteria along with a checklist. Take a look to improve your IB coursework!

Global Politics EE Criteria and Checklist

Still looking for an interesting topic for your Global Politics EE? You are in the right place! The aim of this essay is to conduct an analysis of a contemporary global political issue. Below you can find a set of different extended essay topics and examples.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">Global Politics EE ideas &nbsp;</h2><ol><li><a href="/ee/global-politics/64bd338b50e28d001316f41e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sexual minorities in Israel:</a> Israel is renowned as an LGBTQ-friendly destination, highlighted by the vibrant Pride celebration in Tel Aviv, yet the country's LGBTQ rights remain below average compared to OECD nations. Same-sex marriage is not permitted, and surrogacy for same-sex couples was only legalized recently. In this case, the investigation of progressiveness concerning sexual minorities was divided into three main areas of Israeli society: political, legislative, and military.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/global-politics/64be8b7cf8603e0013d5f492" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EU - Vietnam Trade Policy:</a> The European Union and Vietnam signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signifying a move towards deeper engagement between the EU and Southeast Asia. FTA facilitates market opening and aim to reduce economic barriers, as outlined in the New EU Trade Strategy 2021. This essay seeks to explore to what extent normative imperatives influenced the EU's trade policy in the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement, analyzing the significance of trade policy for the EU, and examining both normative and market power arguments.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/global-politics/64bedb9bf8603e0013d605c4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Third-world nationalism in Algeria: </a>This EE examines to what extent has indigenous identity been suppressed by the formation of national identity in Algeria. The suppression of Amazigh identity, including the banning of the Amazigh flag, reflects broader tensions between monoethnic state power and ethnic plurality in post-colonial nations. This phenomenon extends beyond Algeria, representing a struggle faced by indigenous groups globally against nationalist agendas aimed at homogenizing identities and erasing cultural diversity. &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/global-politics/64c1631cf8603e0013d658b4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Russian influence on the civil war in Syria:</a> During the Cold War, the United States' shift towards limited military intervention abroad created an opportunity for Russia to expand its influence and challenge the Euro-Atlantic order. This essay aims to assess the impact of Russian military intervention on the continuity of the Syrian civil war, analyzing its role in reinforcing political divisions, worsening the humanitarian crisis, and altering military dynamics. &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/global-politics/64d525c06444cd0013a781b8" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Catalan independence referendum:</a> Since the unification of Castilla and Aragón in the seventeenth century, Catalonia has been a hotbed of revolts and separatist movements against the Spanish state, yet these have historically failed to achieve greater autonomy or independence. In 2017, Catalonia held a referendum aimed at declaring independence, led by former President Carles Puigdemont, which sparked controversy and tensions between the Catalan and Spanish governments. This paper explores the extent to which the independence referendum was considered anti-democratic and illegal, examining various interpretations of democracy, international law, and regional autonomy criteria. &nbsp;<pre><code class="language-plaintext">CAROUSEL</code></pre>&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/global-politics/62ce32699636f50014730c5b" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wuhan lockdown: </a>The COVID-19 lockdown involved strict restrictions on movement, surveillance through tracking apps, and mandatory isolation for symptomatic individuals. Critics argue that the lockdown violated human rights, particularly freedom of movement, privacy, expression, and the right to life, as vulnerable individuals were left without adequate care. However, China defends the measures, citing the protection of the majority's right to life and support from international organizations like the WHO. This paper aims to assess the extent of human rights violations during the Wuhan lockdown, arguing that while restrictions on movement and privacy may be justified, limitations on expression and the right to life are not. &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/global-politics/62d6fd40efe3ca0013f9aa98" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2020 US election outcome:</a> The research question examines the extent to which Joe Biden's victory in the 2020 presidential election was inevitable, drawing from Allan Lichtman's "Keys to the White House" model. Lichtman's model suggests that Biden's win was largely a response to Donald Trump's performance as the incumbent president. The model uses 13 keys to predict election outcomes, with any combination of six negative keys indicating defeat for the incumbent party. Analyzing these factors helps understand how they influenced the American perception of both candidates and the election outcome, highlighting the workings of democracy. &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/global-politics/63c6fbc0dbb839001334cd1e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Impact of China's Belt and Road Initiative: </a>The Belt and Road Initiative, launched by China in 2013, aims to enhance global trade through interconnected trade routes and infrastructure, including those passing through the Philippines. This initiative has both positive and negative implications for Philippine sovereignty, prompting an evaluation of its impact. The research question focuses on assessing this impact using criteria such as Westphalian sovereignty and the Treaty of Montevideo, examining aspects like permanent population, defined borders, and effective governance. &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/global-politics/649452050d59190013bcaff3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgb(13,13,13);font-family:Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, &quot;Noto Sans&quot;, sans-serif, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, &quot;Apple Color Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Symbol&quot;, &quot;Noto Color Emoji&quot;;font-size:16px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;display:inline !important;float:none;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:pre-wrap;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">&nbsp;Role of power and sovereignty in Brexit: </a>The Brexit referendum, held in the UK, aimed to determine whether the country should remain in the EU. Membership in the EU brought economic benefits, including faster GDP growth and improved trading partnerships, but also raised questions about sovereignty and decision-making authority. Despite economic advantages, the UK ultimately chose to leave the EU, prompting exploration of the roles played by economic power and sovereignty in the Brexit decision through research and analysis. &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/global-politics/64c06154f8603e0013d64954" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Abraham Peace Agreement: </a>In December 2020, a historic pact was signed between Morocco, Israel, and the USA, with Morocco agreeing to reopen diplomatic ties with Israel and the USA recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over disputed lands in Western Sahara. This essay examines the decision-making processes of key players, the regional impacts of the treaty, the motivations behind powerful actors forming alliances with Morocco, international opinions and their implications, and the objectives of this new alliance.&nbsp;</li></ol> Now you have an idea of what you can write your Global Politics essay about. For more guidance with your IB coursework check out our <a href="/review" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Review service</a>. It is a safe way to receive constructive feedback and improve your EE grade!

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A list of Global Politics extended essay ideas along with examples. Check out for inspiration with your IB coursework. 

Global Politics EE Topic Ideas + Examples 

Are you a Global Politics student starting to write your internal assessment? Clastify is here to help!&nbsp;Keep reading to learn about the formal requirements and the suggested word allocation based on thousands of revised essays.&nbsp;&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8"><h2 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:center;" dir="ltr">Global Politics IA word count and page limit&nbsp; &nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Global Politics students are required to write&nbsp;a maximum 2,000-word written report. There is no page limit. In your IA explain what you learned about a chosen political issue. Analyse and evaluate the topic supporting it by additional research. We recommend the following structure: Introduction, Engagement Activities, Analysis, Conclusion, Recommendations (HL only).&nbsp; &nbsp;<h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:justify;" dir="ltr">&nbsp;</h3><h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:justify;" dir="ltr">Introduction&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;Start by clearly stating the subject of your study. Provide context for the chosen political issue and justify why you decided to explore this specific topic. Demonstrate the link between the engagement, political issue, and course content. Devote around 250 words&nbsp;for the introduction.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read<a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity/67cb1c1e9b4ff5f547145660" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> this</a> to get a glimpse of the matter.&nbsp; &nbsp;<h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:justify;" dir="ltr">&nbsp;</h3><h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:justify;" dir="ltr">Engagement Activities&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;In this section allocate another&nbsp;200 words to explain your engagement in investigating the political issue. Describe what you did and how is it relevant in the context of the study. Ensure variety by engaging in activities offering different perspectives. Finally, clearly explain how the experiences formed your understanding of the topic.&nbsp; &nbsp;Check <a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity/67cb1c1e9b4ff5f547145660" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a> for inspiration.&nbsp; &nbsp;<h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:justify;" dir="ltr">&nbsp;</h3><h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-bottom:0pt;margin-top:0pt;text-align:justify;" dir="ltr">Analysis&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;Your analysis must be heavily linked to the engagement activities, but must also relate to the Global Politics course. Therefore, refer to the key concepts and different theories. Structure your investigation for it to contain an in-depth critical analysis – remember to provide substantive justifications, use counterarguments, and apply different perspectives. The analysis should be around&nbsp;1,200 words.&nbsp; &nbsp;See a well-structured analysis in <a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity/67cb1c5a9b4ff5f547146a9c" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this exemplar</a>.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> &nbsp;Conclusion&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;Allocate the remaining&nbsp;300 words&nbsp;for synthesis and evaluation. In the final part of your report clearly state the conclusions to the previously investigated claims and evaluate your approach to conducting the study. Your findings must be consistent with the presented evidence. Highlight how the engagement in the project influenced your perspective on global politics.&nbsp; &nbsp;See <a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity/67cb1d019b4ff5f54714a934" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this</a> for a good example.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Recommendations (HL only)</h3>&nbsp;The Recommendations section does not contribute to the overall word count of the IA. This section however must not exceed 400 words. In this section students must. The Recommendations section requires students to propose actionable solutions to the political issue discussed. The recommendation should be supported by specific evidence and consider potential implications or challenges, such as political resistance or resource limitations.&nbsp;&nbsp;See<a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity/67cb1bc59b4ff5f547138454" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> this</a> for a strong example.<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> &nbsp;</h3>Be careful, make sure to deduct the following because they are not included in the word count:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ol style="margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;padding-inline-start:48px;"><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#212b36;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:400;list-style-type:decimal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Acknowledgments</li><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#212b36;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:400;list-style-type:decimal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Contents page</li><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#212b36;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:400;list-style-type:decimal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Diagrams&nbsp;</li><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#212b36;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:400;list-style-type:decimal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Labels — of five words or fewer&nbsp;</li><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#212b36;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:400;list-style-type:decimal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Headings on diagrams — of 10 words or fewer&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#212b36;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:400;list-style-type:decimal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Tables of statistical data</li><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#212b36;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:400;list-style-type:decimal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Equations, formulae and calculations&nbsp;</li><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#212b36;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:400;list-style-type:decimal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Citations (which, if used, must be in the body of the commentary)&nbsp;</li><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#212b36;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:400;list-style-type:decimal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1">References (which, if used, must be in the footnotes/endnotes)&nbsp;</li></ol> &nbsp;&nbsp;We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of <a href="/ia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IA</a>, <a href="/ee" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EE </a>and <a href="/tok" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TOK </a>exemplars available at <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify </a>and other guides available on our <a href="/blog" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">blog</a>. Also, do not forget about the numerous <a href="/ia/global-politics" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Global Politics exemplars</a> available on the <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify</a> website!

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A comprehensive guide on Physics IA word count and page limit. Essential reading for mastering the specifics of your Physics IA and excelling in the IB criteria.

Global Politics IA word count and page limit [2026 updated]

Structure is a crucial part of your extended essay. Do you know how to format yours correctly? Don't worry, Clastify is here to help! Below you'll find linked exemplars for inspiration and tips on how to complete each section of your Global Politics EE. Feel free to customize the guide below according to your preferences. We base our suggestions on our extensive experience with helping students receive top ratings for their essays.&nbsp; &nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">Global Politics EE format and structure</h2> The extended essay is a 4,000 words investigation that should consist of the following parts:&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Title page and table of contents</h3><ol><li>On the title page, you will include the topic of your investigation, the research question, the subject, and the word count.&nbsp;</li><li>The next page should be the table of contents with all subsections of your essay along with the page numbering.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li></ol><h3 style="text-align:justify;">Introduction&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>Provide a comprehensive introduction to the topic you chose for your extended essay to demonstrate your understanding of the broader political context.&nbsp;</li><li>State the aim and your approach to solving the investigation.&nbsp;</li><li>Identify the political issue and state how it relates to different concepts from the field of Global Politics. &nbsp;</li><li>If needed, provide definitions associated with the analysed topic and remember to use specific terminology.&nbsp;</li><li>Include in-text citations to establish the real-life context of the investigated situation. &nbsp;</li></ol>&nbsp;You can use <a href="/ee/global-politics/64dd4529faee220013009bcc" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this exemplar</a> for reference.<h3 style="margin-left:0px;"> Research question&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>State a focused research question, <a href="/ee/global-politics/64c06154f8603e0013d64954" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">for example</a>&nbsp;Abraham Peace Agreement (2020): To what extent will the newly created interdependent alliance be a first step to a new regional order intending to lead Morocco as a powerful sovereign state?</li><li>In the research question, you should specify the political event that is subject to your study and provide details such as clarifying the parties involved or the time period under investigation.</li><li>Keep in mind that the topic must refer to the events that occurred in your lifetime and that the scope must be appropriate for the length of the essay.&nbsp;</li></ol> &nbsp;<pre><code class="language-plaintext">CAROUSEL </code></pre><h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Methodology&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>Your extended essay will rely on secondary sources.</li><li>Choose secondary sources thoughtfully, verifying their reliability and relevance to the investigation's context.</li><li>Select sources that offer diverse perspectives on the topic to enrich your analysis.</li><li>Prioritize the incorporation of sources that effectively support the analysis and interpretation of the data gathered as introducing irrelevant information can lead to a deduction of points.</li><li>Demonstrate a clear understanding of how the selected sources will enhance the investigation's overall validity. Justify your choices.&nbsp;</li></ol> <a href="/ee/global-politics/64bedb9bf8603e0013d605c4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">This choice of sources </a>is worth taking a look at.&nbsp; &nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Analysis</h3><ol><li>This is the crucial part of your essay in which you will determine the answer to the research question.</li><li>Maintain a coherent structure by dividing the main body into paragraphs, each dedicated to distinct arguments/subtopics.</li><li>Ensure that your arguments are supported by insightful analysis rooted in the selected evidence and aligned with the research question.</li><li>Incorporate in-text citations to support your arguments effectively.</li><li>Make references to different political concepts such as ideologies.</li><li>Throughout the main body, draw mini-conclusions relevant to the focus of your investigation.</li><li>Exhibit an understanding of the limitations of your sources by critically analyzing their origin, purpose, and content.</li><li>In your extended essay, adopt a critical and analytical approach rather than a narrative or descriptive one to enhance the depth of your analysis.</li></ol>&nbsp;Check out <a href="/ee/global-politics/64bd338b50e28d001316f41e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this analysis.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Conclusion and evaluation</h3><ol><li>Re-state the aim of the essay to refresh the reader's memory.</li><li>Summarize the depth of analysis conducted on the research topic.</li><li>Provide concise summaries of the findings derived from each source utilized in the analysis.</li><li>Clearly state the answer to the research question without introducing new data.</li><li>Briefly revisit the limitations of the data sources utilized in the investigation.</li><li>Acknowledge potential influencing factors on the findings, including personal biases.</li><li>Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your extended essay and propose avenues for improvement and expansion.</li></ol> See <a href="/ee/global-politics/62ce32699636f50014730c5b" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this EE</a> to get a glimpse of the matter.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Bibliography</h3><ol><li>This section is not included in the word count.&nbsp;</li><li>In the bibliography, you should make a detailed list of all sources used in your investigation in alphabetical order. Remember to stay consistent and use one style of referencing.&nbsp;</li></ol> We are hoping that you found this guide useful and that you will be able to use the above suggestions to improve your extended essay! If it's not enough you can check out the remaining <a href="/ee/global-politics">Global Politics exemplars</a> on the <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify</a> website. Also, we prepared tips and a checklist for the Global Politics EE assessment criteria <a href="/blog/global-politics-ee-criteria-and-checklist" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">in this post.&nbsp;</a>Good luck! &nbsp;

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A comprehensive guide on Global Politics extended essay format and structure. Check the tips for Global Politics EE and improve your extended essay!

Global Politics EE Format and Structure 

Thinking about choosing IB Global Politics as your Group 3 course but unsure if it’s the right match? If you’re evaluating your options and wondering about the challenges IB Global Politics might bring, this guide will provide all the insights you need to make a well-informed choice.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">How hard is IB Global Politics?</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;IB Global Politics is widely regarded as one of the more demanding Group 3 subjects. While not quite as rigorous as IB History, it is generally considered more challenging than Economics or Geography. For perspective, only about 5–6% of students achieve the top score of 7 in Global Politics.&nbsp;&nbsp;The subject’s primary difficulty lies in crafting analytical, well-structured essays that respond directly to the question with depth and insight. As a result, students with strong essay-writing skills tend to find the course not as hard and are better positioned to excel.&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>What are some challenges of IB Global Politics?</h3>&nbsp;<ul><li>You need to stay updated on global events – conflicts, elections, policy shifts – and be able to connect them to political concepts.&nbsp;</li><li>Understanding ideas like realism, liberalism, or constructivism, and then analysing events through their prism can be demanding.&nbsp;</li><li>Both SL and HL emphasise structured essays and well-reasoned arguments, so strong writing skills are essential.&nbsp;</li><li>Comparative case studies: The course requires you to draw on examples from multiple countries, which means independent research is key.&nbsp;</li><li>Global politics rarely has a single “right” answer. You must weigh different viewpoints – state vs. non-state actors, Western vs. non-Western perspectives, realist vs. liberal interpretations – and show nuanced judgment.</li><li>The course intersects with history, economics, sociology, and law, so you often need to draw on knowledge from other fields to strengthen your arguments.&nbsp;</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Who should consider doing IB Global Politics?</h3>&nbsp;If you’re interested in international affairs and would like to learn about how governments interact, how conflicts arise, and how global cooperation works, this course will feel exciting rather than burdensome.&nbsp;The Global Politics course also provides a strong foundation for pursuing degrees in political science, international relations, law, and journalism. Not only will the course equip you with the relevant knowledge, you'll also gain valuable analytical and writing skills that are crucial for success at university.&nbsp;&nbsp;Global Politics is also less content-heavy than History and can be more engaging for students who prefer contemporary issues over detailed historical narratives.&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Tips on succeeding in IB Global Politics</h3>&nbsp;<ul><li>Stay informed: Regularly read reputable news sources such as BBC, The Economist, or Al Jazeera. Relating theory to current events strengthens your arguments.&nbsp;</li><li>Master key concepts and theories: Understand core ideas such as sovereignty, power, human rights, development and be able to explain them in different contexts.&nbsp;</li><li>Practice essay writing: Time yourself on past paper questions to improve your clarity and structure under exam conditions.&nbsp;</li><li>Use diverse case studies: Gather examples from different regions and political systems to impress examiners with breadth.&nbsp;</li><li>Participate in discussions: Class debates are a great opportunity for you to refine your ability to articulate and defend arguments – skills vital for success in exams.</li><li>Make connections across units: Show examiners you can synthesize ideas – linking, for example, human rights issues with development challenges or sovereignty debates.</li></ul>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of <a href="/ia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IA</a>, <a href="/ee" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EE </a>and <a href="/tok" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TOK </a>exemplars available at <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify </a>and other guides available on our <a href="/blog" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">blog</a>.&nbsp;

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Understand how hard IB Global Politics is. Explore what makes the course challenging, who is it suitable for, as well as tips on succeeding.

How hard is IB Global Politics?

If you're a Global Politics student aiming to obtain a 7, you've come to the right place. In this post, we will provide you with the necessary tips for achieving a perfect score.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">How to get a 7 in IB Global Politics?</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>Use real-world case studies</h3>&nbsp;IB Global Politics heavily emphasizes the application of theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. Examiners appreciate students who integrate relevant case studies into their responses. Make sure you have a solid grasp of key global events, political decisions, and conflicts that align with the core concepts of the course. Examples such as the Syrian Civil War (linked to sovereignty and intervention), Brexit (connected to supranational organizations and nationalism), or the US-China trade war (economic power relations) will make your arguments more substantiated.&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Practice essay questions</h3>&nbsp;Practice writing essay-style questions, as they form a significant part of the examination. Time yourself while completing individual essays as well as the entire paper. Essay writing can be time-consuming, requiring careful planning and a cohesive flow of ideas within a limited timeframe. Therefore, practicing this skill in advance is essential to ensure you manage your time effectively and complete your essays within the exam duration.&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Maintain a focused argument</h3>&nbsp;A well-structured and focused argument is essential for scoring highly in IB Global Politics essays. Each paragraph should ideally begin with a topic sentence and have a clear point that directly contributes to your overall argument. Avoid including unnecessary information. Using the PEEL (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link) structure is a good method to ensure clarity of argument. It is also very important that you always refer back to the question. Many students get carried away with the argumentation and forget to actually provide an answer to the question. Hence, make sure that you include a conclusion that provides a direct answer to the question.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Engage with key political theories and perspectives</h3><h3>&nbsp;</h3>To stand out, demonstrate a deep understanding of key political theories such as realism, liberalism, constructivism, and Marxism. Examiners appreciate students who can critically engage with different perspectives and apply them to case studies. For example, when discussing humanitarian intervention, compare how a realist and a liberal might interpret the role of state sovereignty and international cooperation.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>Stay updated with current affairs</h3>&nbsp;IB Global Politics is a dynamic subject that requires knowledge of contemporary issues. Follow reputable news sources such as BBC, Al Jazeera, and The Economist to stay informed on international conflicts, policy changes, and global governance trends. Referencing recent developments in your essays will show examiners that you can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world politics.&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Craft a strong engagement activity (IA)</h3>&nbsp;The HL Engagement Activity is a critical part of your final grade as it accounts for 30% of your final grade (20% for HL). To score well, choose a politically relevant issue that genuinely interests you and reflect critically on your findings. Your written report should demonstrate a clear connection between your experience and the course’s theoretical framework. Make sure to check out the<a href="/ia/global-politics-engagement-activity" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> sample IAs</a> available on Clastify.&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Stay on track</h3>&nbsp;In IB Global Politics, many concepts are intertwined and essay questions often require an analysis that takes into consideration the interplay of various concepts. It is therefore crucial you tackle any doubts early to ensure they do not confuse you later on in the course and you are able to make connections between the different themes.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Stay healthy and manage stress</h3>&nbsp;IB Global Politics requires continuous effort throughout the course. To maintain peak performance, prioritize your mental and physical health. Get enough rest, take breaks, and stay active. Managing stress effectively will help you stay focused and motivated.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of <a href="/ia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IA</a>, <a href="/ee" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EE </a>and <a href="/tok" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TOK </a>exemplars available at <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify </a>and other guides available on our <a href="/blog" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">blog</a>.&nbsp;

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A comprehensive guide to obtaining a 7 in IB Global Politics. Explore our top tips on how to achieve a perfect score. 

How to get a 7 in IB Global Politics?

If you need more guidance regarding the structure of IB Global Politics Paper 1, this post is for you! Here, we will provide a thorough breakdown of IB Global Politics Paper 1, ensuring you are familiar with the exam format and know what type of questions to expect to help you tackle the exam confidently.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">IB Global Politics Paper 1</h2>&nbsp;<ul><li>Paper 1 contains source-based questions that address topics from the global politics core of understanding power and global politics in an integrated way.</li><li>The sources may include text, images, diagrams, etc. Students must answer all questions based on the sources as well as their own knowledge from the syllabus.</li><li>Stronger emphasis will be placed on the relevance and diversity of sources.</li><li>Paper 1 is the same for both SL and HL students.&nbsp;</li><li>Students are required to answer four compulsory questions. Each question follows a set structure.</li><li>Paper 1 contributes 30% of the total grade for SL students and 20% for HL students.&nbsp;</li><li>The maximum score attainable is 25 marks.</li><li>Students have 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete Paper 1.&nbsp;</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Example Questions</h3>&nbsp;Identify one human rights issue raised in Source A. [4 marks]&nbsp;Explain how sovereignty can impact the protection of human rights, with reference to Source B. [6 marks]&nbsp;Compare and contrast how Sources C and D represent the challenges faced by NGOs. [10 marks]&nbsp;Evaluate the effectiveness of international organizations in addressing refugee crises, using the sources and your own knowledge. [12 marks]&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>How to Succeed in Global Politics Paper 1</h3>&nbsp;<ul><li>Solve past papers – This helps you get used to the type of questions that could be asked on the exam and helps you develop skills in learning which concepts to apply. You should try to solve past papers using a timer to simulate exam conditions and check your answers against a markscheme to identify areas for improvement.&nbsp;</li><li>Practice applying key concepts – Review core topics like power, legitimacy, sovereignty, interdependence, etc. Identify which concept is relevant to each question and source. Practice writing answers based on these relevant concepts from the syllabus.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Critically analyze the sources – Learn how to quickly highlight key points from the stimulus sources. Try to identify bias, recognise different perspectives, and link your response back to political themes.&nbsp;</li><li>Plan before writing – Organize your thoughts before beginning your essay to ensure your response stays focused and well-structured. Before you start writing, create a quick draft in bullet points of what you want to base your answer on. Do not simply rush to begin writing, as this could lead to your thoughts being disorganized, which could impact the examiner's perception of the quality of your response.&nbsp;</li></ul>&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB, check out the wide variety of <a href="/ia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IA</a>, <a href="/ee" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EE </a>and <a href="/tok" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TOK </a>exemplars available at <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify</a>.&nbsp;

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A comprehensive guide to IB Global Politics Paper 1. Learn about Paper 1 structure, duration, weighing, and the questions you may encounter. 

IB Global Politics Paper 1 

If you're wondering about the structure and questions you may encounter in the IB Global Politics Paper 2, you're in the right place! In this post, we’ll provide a thorough breakdown of IB Global Politics Paper 2, ensuring you are familiarised with the structure of the exam and know what type of questions to expect.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">IB Global Politics Paper 2</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li>At SL, Paper 2 accounts for 40% of the student's subject grade.</li><li>At HL, it is worth 30% of the final grade.&nbsp;</li><li>Both SL and HL students have 1 hour 30 minutes to complete Paper 2.</li><li>Paper is an essay-based Paper.&nbsp;</li><li>Paper 2 is made up extended response questions based on prescribed content from the thematic studies.</li><li>Students answer two questions: one focused on a particular thematic study, and one integrating question that draws links across the thematic studies as well as the core topics.</li></ul>&nbsp;&nbsp;For the first thematic study question, students may encounter questions like these:&nbsp;Rights and Justice&nbsp;Discuss the extent to which cultural relativism can be used to justify different concepts of human rights.&nbsp;Development and sustainability&nbsp;Discuss the view that sustainable development will never be achieved until state and non-state actors can be persuaded or forced to act in the common interest.&nbsp;Peace and conflict&nbsp;&nbsp;Peacebuilding is arguably more important than peacemaking, yet it is given much less funding and attention. To what extent do you agree with this claim?&nbsp;&nbsp;For the second integrating question, students may encounter questions that look like these:&nbsp;To what extent does the pursuit of state sovereignty undermine both human rights and sustainable development?&nbsp;To what extent can legitimacy and accountability be maintained when international organizations intervene in both conflict zones and development projects?&nbsp;In a globalized world, is the concept of national interest compatible with the promotion of global justice and peace?&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>How to succeed in Paper 2</h3>&nbsp;To do well in Paper 2, it’s important that your responses are clearly written, logically structured, and make consistent use of political terminology. Begin by defining key concepts in your introduction to show a strong grasp of the syllabus and create a solid foundation for your argument.&nbsp;&nbsp;In your analysis you should evaluate political issues using real-world examples, such as case studies and the actions of different actors (states, IGOs, NGOs, social movements etc.). Make sure to always ask yourself why a situation is politically significant and how it connects to the key themes of the course.&nbsp;&nbsp;To show critical thinking, engage with different perspectives and include counterarguments where relevant. Make sure to also offer your own personal judgment as this helps tie your argument together and shows depth of understanding.&nbsp;Also, one of the most effective ways to prepare for Paper 1 is by practicing past papers under timed, exam-like conditions. This helps you get comfortable with the structure and strengthens your skill in answering exactly what the question is asking within the time limit. After each attempt, make sure to review your responses and identify areas for improvement.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of <a href="/ia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IA</a>, <a href="/ee" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EE </a>and <a href="/tok" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TOK </a>exemplars available at <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify</a>.&nbsp;

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A comprehensive guide to IB Global Politics Paper 2. Learn about IB Global Politics Paper 2 structure, duration, questions, weighting, as well as tips on how to answer. 

IB Global Politics Paper 2

Global Politics examines contemporary political issues and power dynamics at local, national, and international levels. The course encourages students to critically analyze global challenges, understand different political perspectives, and develop skills in political analysis and international relations.

IB Global Politics

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Paper Weighting

3,498 students

4.8 average grade

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Helpful Blog Posts

IB Global Politics Paper 2

Global Politics IA Criteria and Checklist [2026 updated]

Global Politics EE Criteria and Checklist

Global Politics EE Topic Ideas + Examples

Global Politics IA word count and page limit [2026 updated]

Global Politics EE Format and Structure

How hard is IB Global Politics?

How to get a 7 in IB Global Politics?

IB Global Politics Paper 1

IB Global Politics Paper 2

Global Politics IA Criteria and Checklist [2026 updated]

Global Politics EE Criteria and Checklist

Global Politics EE Topic Ideas + Examples

Global Politics IA word count and page limit [2026 updated]

Global Politics EE Format and Structure

How hard is IB Global Politics?

How to get a 7 in IB Global Politics?

IB Global Politics Paper 1

IB Global Politics Paper 2

3,498 students

4.8 average grade

Difficulty

Grade distribution