| Date | May 2021 | Marks available | 15 | Reference code | 21M.3op4.HL.TZ0.35 |
| Level | Higher level only | Paper | Paper 3 (History of Europe) | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | Discuss | Question number | 35 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Section 18: Post-war central and eastern Europe (1945–2000)
Discuss the reasons for the establishment of COMECON and the Warsaw Pact.
Markscheme
The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for the establishment of COMECON and the Warsaw Pact. Candidates may consider the emergence of both as a consequence of the division between the Western and Eastern blocs. Regarding COMECON, candidates may discuss the need of an economic market for the socialist countries that were not allowed to participate in the Marshall Plan. Candidates may also refer to the need to strengthen the international socialist relationship; to coordinate the national economic plans; to improve trade relations among communist countries and to export industrial equipment and machinery as reasons for its creation. Regarding the Warsaw Pact, candidates may discuss its formation as a military answer to NATO. Candidates may also note geostrategic principles since the Soviet Union wanted to create a buffer zone to prevent an invasion of its territory and to maintain control over central and eastern Europe. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.
Examiners report
The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for the establishment of COMECON and the Warsaw Pact. Few responses were seen to this question. Some good knowledge and understanding was shown.
