Japan and Russia - Kuril Islands
Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II- IR
Historical Background
Sovereignty Issue of South Kuril Islands:
The Kuril Islands dispute between Japan and Russia is over the sovereignty of the South Kuril Islands.
The South Kuril Islands comprise Etorofu island, Kunashiri island, Shikotan island and Habomai island. These islands are claimed by Japan but occupied by Russia as the successor state of the Soviet
Russia - Constitutional Amendments
Part of: GS-II- IR- Russia (PT-MAINS-PERSONALITY TEST)
The Russian citizens have supported a set of constitutional amendments including the continuation of the presidency by Vladimir Putin in a recently held referendum in the country.
The referendum also included clauses related to the reorganisation of the government, introducing a higher minimum pension and wages, a ban on gay marriage, restricting top officials from ho