Development, trade and aid

Preparation and Planning

Students will be split into groups of three and each will require copies of the Student Worksheets and so these should be photocopied in advance. Students will also need access to the internet to complete online research in Episode 3.

You will need access to audio visual equipment to present the PowerPoint slides and videos.

About the MOD Topic

The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) aims to protect UK citizens, strengthen international peace and stability, and act as a force for good in the world. In order to fulfil this aim the MOD, usually with DFID (Department for International Development), works closely with international organisations such as NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation), UN (United Nations) and EU (European Union) developing and executing global strategies that aim to prevent conflict and maintain world stability.
The UK Armed Forces help to deliver these global strategies and are required to undertake a range of roles including the provision of humanitarian aid to LEDCs or countries that fall victim to natural disaster or war. They help to deliver military training to armed forces around the world and help to preserve trade between the world's nations by protecting international shipping lanes from piracy. Case-studies and further information relating to this work can be found on Student Worksheets 2-4.
The UK's Global Conflict Prevention Pool is an example of a 'whole of government' approach to conflict prevention. In 2001, two conflict prevention pools were created (the Africa Pool and the Global Pool) which brought together the knowledge, skills and resources of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), the MOD and the DFID. Activities of the pools seek to harness the expertise available across these organisations, including development, security reform, public administration, good policing and justice reform. The Pools have brought together the security and development aspects of conflict prevention helping to pursue lasting peace and stability. The professional skills of members of the UK Armed Forces have been invaluable in this process.

Further Opportunities for Learning

Conduct a discussion around the following topic: 'Should the MOD be involved in supporting aid and trade in the global environment? Is there another international body which could do a better job?'

Discussion topic: 'Should any aid at all be given to any country? Is it best to let each country find their own sustainable route to recovery, without external help?'.

Student Worksheet 4 can be used to examine the advantages and disadvantages for LEDCs receiving aid.

Student worksheet answers

Download the teachers notes PDF to access the answers for this lesson.