Globalisation

Global commons are resources that belong to all nations and are not owned by any one country. Four examples of global commons are:
1. The High Seas – Oceans beyond territorial waters.
2. The Atmosphere – Air shared globally.
3. Antarctica – The continent is protected by international treaties.
4. Outer Space – Space beyond Earth’s atmosphere, used by all nations for scientific exploration.

Two major causes of globalization are:
1. Advancements in Technology: The rapid development of communication technologies, including the internet and mobile networks, has made it easier for people and businesses to connect globally. This has enabled the flow of information, capital, and services across borders.
2. Trade Liberalization: The reduction of tariffs and trade barriers through international agreements like the WTO has facilitated the movement of goods and services across the world, boosting global trade and economic interconnectedness.

- Assertion (A): This is correct because multinational companies often have a significant influence on global markets and economic decisions, which can limit the ability of individual governments to make independent economic decisions.
- Reason (R): This is also correct because, in the era of globalization, states often continue to manage their essential functions but also choose to withdraw or delegate certain responsibilities to the private sector or international organizations in areas such as trade or environmental policy.
However, the reason (R) does not fully explain the assertion (A) because the assertion primarily addresses the influence of multinational companies, while the reason speaks more about the broader trend of state withdrawal from various functions.
Thus, the correct answer is (B) Both the Assertion (A) and the Reason (R) are correct, but the Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).

Lithuania was the first republic of the Soviet Union to declare its independence in 1990, which ultimately led to the disbanding of the Soviet Union. Lithuania's declaration of independence challenged the Soviet government's authority and paved the way for other republics to follow suit, leading to the dissolution of the Soviet Union by the end of 1991.
Thus, the correct answer is (A) Lithuania.