[Download] PSIR & GS2 Daily Brief- 22 – May – 2026

Today’s brief covers these important themes:

In Foreign Affairs, Thant Myint-U analysis why the UN’s old foundations — no war and no empire — are weakening.

In ORF, Kayode Fayemi talks about how India and Africa can build a new Global South framework

In The Indian Express, Gitanjali J. Angmo focuses on why Ladakh needs representation, not just administrative districts.

UPSC has previously asked question on these themes:

1. 2025 PSIR Paper II asked: “Collective security and responsibility to protect (R2P) are similar but different in scope, goals and methods. Explain.” It also asked: “Does the Non-Aligned Movement have any future in the wake of India’s growing indifference towards it?” and “Discuss some of the key drivers of India’s new interests in Africa which might help in developing long-term comparative advantage over China.”

2. 2025 GS Paper II asked: “India-Africa digital partnership is achieving mutual respect, co-development and long-term institutional partnerships. Elaborate.” It also asked on UN reform: “The reform process in the United Nations remains unresolved…” and on Union Territory representation: “Discuss the nature of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly after the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019.”

3. 2024 PSIR Paper II asked: “India must strive to become a semi-permanent member of the UNSC, rather than a permanent member without the right to veto.” It also asked: “Discuss the potential role that India could play as the leader of the Global South in realising the goal of establishing a new international economic order in the 21st century.”

4. 2024 GS Paper II asked: “What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-State relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism.”

5. 2023 PSIR Paper II asked: “Discuss the structure and functions of UN Security Council.” It also asked: “During the Cold War, the Non-Aligned Movement tried to become a ‘Third force’ in World Politics…” and “Discuss the major drivers of India’s interests in Africa.”

6. 2023 GS Paper II asked: “Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism?” A direct Ladakh-specific question was not found in these papers, but the linked themes of federalism, UT legislature, representation and Centre-State relations have clearly appeared.