Globalization is a complex phenomenon that describes the growing interconnection and interdependence of economies, cultures and societies worldwide.
In the field of international relations, globalization manifests itself in various forms:
- Economic interconnection: Globalization has facilitated the movement of goods, services, capital and technologies across national borders. This is reflected in the expansion of international trade, the integration of global supply chains and the increase in foreign direct investments.
- Political interdependence: States and international institutions are increasingly interrelated, resulting in greater political interdependence. Global problems, such as climate change, terrorism, migration and cybersecurity, require cooperation and coordination between States for their effective resolution.
- Cultural exchange: Globalization also involves the spread of ideas, values, cultural practices and lifestyles across borders. Advances in communications, such as the Internet and social media, have facilitated this cultural exchange, although they have also posed challenges in terms of cultural preservation and diversity.
- Technological transformations: Technological advances, especially in areas such as computing, telecommunications and biotechnology, have been key drivers of globalization. These technologies have reduced geographic and temporal barriers, allowing greater connectivity and interaction between people and organizations around the world.
In summary, globalization in the context of international relations refers to the growing integration and connectivity worldwide in the economic, political, cultural and technological spheres.
While it has generated significant benefits, it has also posed challenges in terms of inequality, conflict and loss of national sovereignty.
Proper understanding and management of globalization are crucial to addressing these challenges and seizing its opportunities in an equitable and sustainable manner.
Is globalization positive for the international system?
It is an impossible task today to think of a topic that is not directly or indirectly influenced by the famous globalization.
We know the phenomenon because it is interconnection of all the nations that make up the globe, while the interdependence. But it is by no means an event without criticism or negative aspects.
Although situations that could be categorized as “globalization” have existed since ancient times, the phenomenon as such has existed since half of the last century. But to see his problems you don't have to look any further than twelve years ago.
The financial crisis of 2007
The financial crisis of 2007 had its causes in the United States, and its victims throughout the world..
If it were not for the lack of capital controls at the time (caused by the belief that it went against financial globalization), American junk credit would not have crossed borders and the impact of this crisis on the planet would have been smaller.
A similar event is known as “original sin.”
"Original sin"
This occurs when emerging economies acquire a lot of debt in foreign currencies and, due to the volatility of their national currency, end up paying very high sums.
Other challenge facing globalization is the disparity of powers.
Disparity of powers
When a country like the United States can exercise blockades and sanctions at will using the power of the dollar, we cannot speak of a fair system.
The American giant bends the will of any nation and imposes its own interests.
This circumstance has worsened over the years and worsens depending on its rulers, as with Trump.
Economic interdependence
As I mentioned before, Globalization also entails interdependence.
This translates as the need for countries to acquire and sell goods and services to each other, but this is not always positive.
Reiterating the presence of President Trump, it is common knowledge that the latest economic slowdown was due in part to his trade war with China, in addition to its arbitrary measures.
When a leader of such a powerful nation makes such a blind decision on an issue as important as trade with China, dire results are expected to be around the corner.
Not only has it failed to boost American industry, but it has caused such a decline in its economy and that of China that the entire planet has trembled.
And although many excuse themselves with the false theory that recessions are cyclical and natural, the truth is that there was no reason to think that one was coming.
Likewise, the theory that the interdependence generated by globalization produces total peace.
And although this peace is visible in the non-war way of solving international tensions that has been applied during the last century, we must not forget the caveats.
Currently, they are Middle East and Africa, who continue to suffer from the West's thirst for resources, and the new economic wars that are at hand. order of the day.
This is a declared worshiper of globalization, which has generated advances and collaboration unprecedented in history. But imperfections must be addressed. And the solutions exist.
From the most exhaustive controls of capital and financial means, to truly fair international institutions that balance the balance of power.
If we have improved, we will not need a crash to address these problems, as has always been the case in the past.
Collaborator at Reáculoateypunto, graduated in Business Administration and Management at Loyola University, debater and connoisseur of the world! I studied for a year in Derby, and I have work experience in public administration. I am passionate about business administration and national and supranational institutions, especially financial matters and international economics... And that is why I write and share my opinions on these topics!