Question

Write short notes
Bandung Conference

Hint:

The Bandung Conference was a crucial moment in the Cold War era as it allowed de veloping countries to assert their independence and voice their collective aspirations without being caught in the ideological struggle between the superpowers.

Answer 1

The Bandung Conference, held in April 1955 in the Indonesian city of Bandung, was a landmark event in the history of the post-colonial world. The conference was the first large-scale Asian-African conference and was attended by representatives from 29 newly independent nations, primarily from Asia and Africa.

Key Features of the Bandung Conference:

• Non-Alignment Movement: One of the key outcomes of the conference was the foundation of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). The conference promoted the idea that newly independent nations should not align with either the United States or the Soviet Union during the Cold War, advocating for neutrality and cooperation among themselves.
• Unity and Cooperation: The conference sought to foster unity and solidarity among the Asian and African countries in their struggles against colonialism, imperialism, and racial discrimination. It focused on promoting peaceful coexistence and mutual cooperation among the participants.
• Social and Economic Development: The Bandung Conference emphasized the importance of economic and social development for newly independent nations. It highlighted the need for cooperation in areas such as trade, education, and scientific advancement, while promoting the concept of economic independence from former colonial powers.
• Anti-Colonialism and Anti-Racism: A central theme of the Bandung Conference was the rejection of colonial rule and racial discrimination. The participating nations called for global solidarity against colonial oppression and the protection of human rights and dignity for all races.

The Bandung Conference was a significant event that laid the groundwork for future cooperation among developing nations and marked the beginning of a more assertive stance in global affairs by the global South.