Evaluate the treatment of religious groups and minorities in two authoritarian/single-party states, each chosen from a different region.

Candidates are required to appraise the treatment of religious groups and minorities in two states, chosen from different regions. Candidates may elect to adopt a comparative approach; however, this is not a requirement. Nevertheless, a reasoned conclusion is expected.

Indicative content

Positive actions by the state

• Laws may have been passed to prevent discrimination.
• Financial aid may have been given to help establish, or preserve, places of worship or housing for minorities.
• Facilities may have been provided to allow for separate education for the children of minorities/religious groups (although this could also be seen in a negative light).

Negative actions by the state

• Laws may have been passed to impose restrictions on the religious practices of certain groups, or on their right to worship freely.
• Laws may have been passed to deny rights to minorities.
• Education in their own language may have been denied to minorities.
• Genocide may have been attempted, or carried out, against groups in certain states.
• Financial penalties may have been imposed by the state, for example, through the application of additional taxation.

The above material is an indication of what candidates may elect to write about in their responses. However, it is not exhaustive and no set answer is required.

Examiners and moderators are reminded of the need to apply the markbands that provide the “best fit” to the responses given by candidates and to award credit wherever it is possible to do so.

[20 marks]