Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF

GLOBALIZATION

Different Meanings of Globalization:

 Giddens defines globalization as intensification of worldwide social

relations which link distant localities in such a way that local happenings are
shaped by events occurring many miles away and vice versa.

 Interconnectedness of human beings in Technological changes, Modern

Transportation, Communication Technology.

 Robertson states that globalization refers both to the compression of the world
and the intensification of consciousness of the world as a whole”

 Harvey on the other hand states that globalization is the compression of time
and space and the annihilation of distance.

 Sunny Levin Institute defines globalization as process of interaction and

integration among the people, companies, and governments of different nations,
process driven by international trade and investment and aided by information
technology.

 Group of globalization scholars meanwhile does not subscribe to the

sociological viewpoint , they argue that internationalization and
multinationalization are phases that precede globalization because the latter
heralds the end of the state system as the nucleus of human activities.

 End of the nation-state

Economic Viewpoint of Globalization

 Dominated by economic activities like the neoliberal regime, reduction of

tariffs, creation of transnational corporations, and improvement of multilateral
trade organizations.

Existence of competing definitions of GLOBALIZATION

 Historians are more interested in determining whether globalization is really a

modern phenomenon; while
 Economists look into the changing patterns of international trade and commerce
as well as the unequal distribution of wealth; on the other hand
 Political Scientists focuses on the impacts of the forces of globalization, such as
the international NGOs, and international organizations, on the state and vice
versa.

1|Page
 GLOBALIZATION as a PROCESS

 Viewed as a multidimensional set of social processes that generate and

increase “worldwide social interdependencies and exchanges while at the same
time fostering in people a growing awareness of deepening connections between
the local and the distant.
 Globalization is about the compression of time and space brought about by
changes in technology and the political, cultural, and economic aspects of
human existence.

SIGNS OF GLOBALITY

 Thickening of social linkages between people from different parts of the world.
 Viewed as such, globalization has no definite and exact beginning. --- innovations
in transportation and communication technologies, and creation of institutions of
commerce.

GLOBALIZATION, as a CONDITION

 also referred to by scholars as GLOBALITY

 social condition characterized by trans-planetary connectivity and supra-
territoriality.

 Trans-planetary connectivity is the establishment of social links between

people located at different places of our planet; while
 Supra-territoriality is the social connections that transcend territorial
geography.

2|Page
  In other words, globalization as a social condition is characterized by
thick economic, political, and cultural interconnections and global flows
that render political borders and economic barriers irrelevant.

GLOBALIZATION , as an IDEOLOGY

 Globalization exists in people’s consciousness because it consists of a set of

coherent and complementary ideas and beliefs about the global order.

SIX(6) Core Claims of Globalization as an ideology:

1. Globalization is about the liberalization and global integration of markets.
2. Globalization is inevitable and irreversible.
3. Nobody is in charge of globalization.
4. Globalization benefits everyone in the long run. Free trade and free market,
globalists believe, will bring wealth and prosperity to everyone. (Jack Ma,
founder and CEO of Alibaba, one of the most successful and pioneer online-
based businesses in China).
5. Globalization furthers the spread of democracy in the world.
6. Globalization requires a global war on terror. i.e. 9-11 Attack.

THEORETICAL PARADIGMS ASSOCIATED WITH GLOBALIZATION

1. World Systems Paradigm o Immanuel Wallerstein –principal proponent o

views globalization not as a recent phenomenon but as virtually synonymous
with the birth and spread of WORLD
CAPITALISM
o The appropriate unit of analysis for macro-social inquiry in the modern
world is neither class, nor state/society, or country, but the larger
historical system, in which these categories are located.
o This paradigm adheres to the idea that capitalism has created a global
enterprise that swept the 19th century leading to the present time.
o Globalization is not at all a new process but something that is just
continuing and evolving.
o According to Wallerstein, there are three division of the world/ key
structure of the capitalist system and these are the following:
a) Core, powerful and developed centers examples are :
Western Europe, North America and Japan
b) Periphery –forcibly subordinated to the core through colonialism or other
means examples are : Latin America,
Africa, Asia, Middle East and Eastern Europe
c) Semi-periphery- states and regions that were previously in the core and
are moving down in this hierarchy or those that were previously in the
periphery and are moving up. o Centrality and immanence of the inter-
state system and interstate rivalry to the maintenance and reproduction of
the worldsystem.

3|Page
 o Does not see any transcendence of the nation state system or the centrality
of nation states as the principal component units of a larger global system.

2. Global Capitalism Paradigm o Treat globalization as a novel stage in the

evolving system of world capitalism --- CAPITALIST GLOBALIZATION.
o Focus on new global production and financial system, both are seen to have
superseded earlier national forms of capitalism
o SKLAIR in his theory of the global system –which espoused the transnational
practices (TNPs) as operational categories for the analysis of transnational
phenomena. His theory argues that the TCC has emerged as a new class that
brings together several social groups who see their own interests in an
expanding global capitalist system: the executives of transnational
corporations; globalizing bureaucrats, politicians , and professionals and
consumerist elites in the media and the commercial sector.
o ROBINSON (2003, 2004), have advanced a related theory of global capitalism
involving three planks:
a) Transnational production
b) Transnational capitalists
c) Transnational state
to which he asserts that Globalization creates new forms of transnational
class relations across borders and new forms of class cleavages globally and
within countries, regions, cities and local communities.

3. Network Society School of Thought o Does not subscribe to the

contention that capitalism fuels globalization.
o Technology and technological change are the underlying causes of the
several processes that comprise globalization.

4. Space, Time and Globalization

For Anthony Giddens, the conceptual essence of globalization

is “time-space distanciation”. Intensification of worldwide social
relations which link distant localities in such a way that local
happenings are shaped by events occurring many miles away
and vice versa, -social relations are lifted out from local
contexts of interaction and restructured across time and
space.

For David Harvey, globalization represents a new burst of

‘time-space compression’ produced by the very dynamics of
capitalist development.

4|Page
 5. Transnationality and Transnationalism

For Saski Sassen --- wrote THE GLOBAL CITY (1991), world cities; she viewed
the world-class cities as sites of major production, finances or coordinating of the
world economy within an international division of labor, and more recent research
on ‘globalizing cities’.
Led by New York, London, and Tokyo – transnationally
mobile capital

For Roland Robertson, GLOCALIZATION

Ideas about home, locality and community have been extensively spread around
the world in recent years, so that the local has been globalized.
The stress upon the significance of the local or the communal can be viewed as one
ingredient of the overall globalization process.

6. Global Culture Paradigm o Theorists emphasize the rapid growth of the mass
media and resultant global cultural flows and images in recent decades,
evoking the image famously put forth by Marshall McLuhan of the
global village.

o Cultural Theories of globalization, Focused on such phenomena as

globalization and religion, nations and ethnicity, global consumerism,
global communications and the globalization of tourism.
o Ritzer (1993, 2002) coined the popularized term
‘McDonaldization’ to describe the sociocultural processes by which the
principles of fast food restaurant came too dominate more and more
sectors of US and later world society.

GLOBALIZATION VS. INTERNATIONALIZATION

 Globalization human activities that do not require reference to a state’s

national borders. i.e. exchanges of romantic words in a social media platform
such as Facebook between a Filipina in the PHL and a German residing in his
country fall within globalization that do not need their respective government’s
permission to do so; while

 Internationalization, activities by entities such as corporations, states,

international organizations, private organizations, and even individuals with
reference to national borders and national governments.

5|Page
Globalization as liberalization
Liberalization is commonly understood as the removal of barriers and
restrictions imposed by national governments so as to create an open and
borderless world economy. In this sense, globalization is realized when national
governments reduce or abolish regulatory measures like trade
barriers, foreign exchange restrictions, capital controls and visa requirements. (Scholte,
2008)
Problem with this, Scholte explains the study of globalization within the debate
concerning the neoliberal macroeconomics policies:

o On one side of the debate are academics, business executives and

policymakers that have supported neoliberal policies of liberalization,
privatization, deregulation, and fiscal restraint would in time bring
prosperity, freedom, peace and democracy for all.
o On the other side, the critics in the so-called anti-globalization movement
have opposed neoliberal policies, arguing that a laissez faire world
economy produces greater poverty, inequality, social conflict, cultural
destruction, ecological damage and democratic deficits.
o In addition, misconception carries with it a political implication- that neo-
liberalism is the only available policy framework for a truly global world.
o Finally, debates about the advantages and disadvantages of laissez faire
economics have gone on for centuries without involving the language of
globalization.
Globalization as universalization and westernization

o Universalization denotes a process of spreading various objects, practices

and experiences to the different parts of the planet. Hence, there is
globalization when things, values and practices have spread worldwide.
o This interpretation of globalization entails homogenization of culture,
politics, economy and laws.
o As homogenization progresses, globalization destroys several indigenous
cultures and practices.
o If western modernity spreads and destroys local cultures, this variant
universalization is known as WESTERNIZATION, neocolonialism,
Americanization, or McDonaldization.
Issues arising from these misconceptions

 Universalization is not new feature of world history.

o Migration of human species that took place a million years ago is one great
example of globalization in the ancient times.
o The continuous spread of the major religions like Christianity and Islam
since their foundation constitutes another instance of globalization which
is not confined to contemporary period.

6|Page
 As shown by the studies on oriental globalization Westernization is not the only
path that can be taken by globalization.

GLOBAL ECONOMY LECTURE

Dr. Simeon B. Abarquez IV

1. Globalization involves broadening and deepening of interdependence among peoples and

states.
2. Economic globalization according to Szentes – a process making the world economy an
“organic system” by extending transnational economic processes and economic relations
to more and more countries and deepening the economic interdependence among them.
3. Post-World War II Economic System

 Bretton Woods Conference , July 1944 = formally known United Nations Monetary
and Financial conference

 Two Economic Organizations: World Bank or International Bank for Reconstruction

and Development and International Monetary Fund (IMF)

 These institutions are known as Bretton Woods Institutions

 It includes third entity, the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT)
4. IMF

 The IMF is a global organization that works to achieve sustainable growth and
prosperity for all of its 190 member countries, working to foster global monetary
cooperation, secure financial stability, facilitate international trade, promote high
employment and sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the
world.

 The IMF works with governments around the world to modernize their economic
policies and institutions, and train their people. This helps countries strengthen
their economy, improve growth and create jobs. Primary purpose is to promote
monetary cooperation and international stability

 Role is to provide short-term loans

 IMF is an institution based on quotas which determine the maximum amount of

financial resources that a state is obliged to provide to the fund. Each member
country of the IMF is assigned a quota, based broadly on its relative position in the
world economy.

 Membership: The original members of the Fund shall be those of the countries
represented at the United Nations Monetary and Financial Conference Bretton
Woods Conference whose governments accept membership before December 31,
1945. To become a member, a country must apply and then be accepted by a
majority of the existing members.

 Purposes
The purposes of the International Monetary Fund are:

7|Page
  To promote international monetary cooperation through a permanent
institution which provides the machinery for consultation and collaboration
on international monetary problems.
 To facilitate the expansion and balanced growth of international trade, and
to contribute thereby to the promotion and maintenance of high levels of
employment and real income and to the development of the productive
resources of all members as primary objectives of economic policy.
  To promote exchange stability, to maintain orderly exchange arrangements
among members, and to avoid competitive exchange depreciation.
 To assist in the establishment of a multilateral system of payments in
respect of current transactions between members and in the elimination of
foreign exchange restrictions which hamper the growth of world trade.
 To give confidence to members by making the general resources of the Fund
temporarily available to them under adequate safeguards, thus providing
them with opportunity to correct maladjustments in their balance of
payments without resorting to measures destructive of national or
international prosperity.
 In accordance with the above, to shorten the duration and lessen the degree
of disequilibrium in the international balances of payments of members

 IMF Functions
Ensure the stability of the international monetary system. It does so in three
ways:
 Keeping track of the global economy and the economies of member
countries,
 Lending to Countries with balance of payments difficulties
 Giving help to members

 How IMF lends?

 When a country undergo such problems IMF staff team holds discussions
with the government to assess the economic and financial situation, and the
size of the country’s overall financing needs, and agree on the appropriate
policy response.
 N.B. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin E. Diokno, announced
that the Philippines' outstanding external debt stood at US$80.4 billion as
of end-March 2019,

 IMF is designed to monitor fixed exchange rates

 IMF has since been dominated by the West and has been much criticized for
marginalizing the South and failing the emerging economies in its decision making

 The Global Financial Crisis in 2007-2009 prompted the IMF to undergo reforms:
1) IMF resource expansion to enhance capacity for financial crisis management
2) Increase quota and voting power of emerging economies
5. International Bank for Reconstruction and Development/World Bank

8|Page
 Created for long-term loans for the economic development of less developed
countries and reconstructions of war-torn countries in Europe.

 Made of 2 institutions: 1) International Bank for Reconstruction and Development

(IBRD) - provides loans to middle-income and credit-worthy low-income countries;
2) International Development Association – grants credits and loans to lowest
income countries.

 World Bank is only component of the World Bank Groups which comprised 3
others institutions: IFC, MIGA (, and ICSID (International Center for Settlement of
Investment Disputes )

 The World Bank is an International Financial Institution that provides financial

and technical assistance to developing countries for development programs.

  Its Headquarters can be found in Washington, DC

  It was established on July 1, 1944 during a conference of 44 countries in Bretton

Woods Conference.

 World Bank mission is to:

a) Reduce poverty in the globe
b) Improve the living standard
 The renewed role of the WB in the modern economy is to reduce extreme poverty

 WB provides a low-interest loans, interest-free credit grants (Grants are designed

to facilitate development projects by encouraging innovation, cooperation between
organizations and local stakeholders’ participations in project) to developing
countries.

 These loans are for education, health, infrastructure, communications and many
other purposes.

 Unlike other financial institutions, WB does not operate for profit.

 Objective and Function

a) Provide assistance to developing countries
b) Promote the economic development of the world’s poorest countries
c) Finances the poorest developing countries whose per capita GNP ins less than $865
a year special financial assistance through the International Development
Association (IDA).
 Two types of loans that the WB can offer:
a) Investment Loans: Support economic and social development projects
b) Development Policy Loans: Quick disbursing finance to support a countries.
 The World Bank’s two closely affiliated entities:
1) The International Bank of Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)
 Founded in 1944 at the Bretton Woods Conference to finance the
reconstruction of countries affected by WWII.
 Help with the developments of improvised nations.
 World’s Bank Central Institution.

9|Page
  189 member countries as of 2023.
 Lends to countries with relatively high per capital incomes.
 Money is used for development projects (i.e. highways, schools)Provides
technical assistance in projects.
 IBRD lending to developing countries is primarily financed by selling
AAA-rated bonds in the world’s capital. The greater the proportion of its
income come from lending out its own capital.
2) The International Development Association (IDA)
 Established in 1960
 Assist the poorest developing countries.
 Lends to countries with annual per capital incomes of about $800 or
less.
 It’s loans are known as “credits” .
 IDA is the world’s largest source of interest-free loans and grant
assistance to the poorest countries This source is replenished every three
years by 40donor countries.
 Additional funds are regenerated through repayments of loans principal
on 35-40 years. No interest loans, which are the available for re-lending.
IDA accounts for nearly 40% of lending.
In addition to the IBRD and the IDA, three other institutions are closely associated with the
World Bank:
1) The Internal Finance Corporation (IFC)
 Established in 1956 to reduce poverty and improve people’s lives in an
environmentally and socially responsible manner
 The International Finance Corporation or IFC, is the private sector arm of
the World Bank Group and shares its mission to reduce global poverty.
 It has 186 member countries. Brunei Darussalam joins IFC as its 186th
member
 Finances private sector investment, mobilizes capital in international
financial markets, and advice to governments and business
 Provides both loan and equity finance for business ventures in developing
countries.
 IFC advances economic development and improves the lives of people by
encouraging the growth of the private sector in developing countries.
2) The Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA)
 MIGA was created in April 12, 1988 to promote foreign direct investment into
developing countries to support economic growth, reduce poverty, and
improve people's lives
 Helps developing countries to attract foreign investment.

10 | P a g e
  Provides investment marketing services and legal advisory services to its 152
members
 Somalia Becomes 182nd Member of Multilateral Investment Guarantee
Agency
3) The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID)
 Established in 1966 to promote increased flow of international investment
 Provides facilities for the reconciliation of disputes between governments and
foreign investors
 The ICSID Convention was drafted between 1961 and 1965 and entered into
force in 1966. As of today, it counts 165 Member States (158 Contracting
States and 7 Signatory States
6. Processes in World Bank:
 The World Bank is like a cooperative, where the 184 member countries are
shareholders. The shareholders a are represented by a Board of Governors, who are
ultimate policy makers at the World Bank
 The governors are member countries minister if finance or ministers of
development.
 They meet once a year at the Annual of the Bards of Governors of the World Bank
Group and the International Monetary Fund.
  Because the governors only meet annually, they delegate specific duties to 24
Executive Directors, who work on-site at the bank.
 The other member countries are represented by 19 executive directors.
 The President is elected by the Board of the Governors for a five-year renewable
term.
 The executive directors make the boards of directions of the world bank. They
normally meet at least twice a week to oversee the bank’s business including
approval of loans & approve guarantees country assistance strategies and
borrowing and financial decisions
 The world bank operate day-to-day under the leadership and the direction of the
president, management and senior staff, and the vice presidents in charge of
regions, sectors, and networks and function.
The largest shareholders include the United States (16.57% of total subscribed
capital), Japan (8.32%), China (4.59%), Germany (4.16%), and France and the
United Kingdom (with 3.90% each) The U.S. is the largest shareholder of the
World Bank with 16.57% of its capital shares. Every World Bank president since
its inception has been a U.S. citizen.
Is the World Bank profitable? • Yes, although we are not a profit-maximizing
institution, strong financial performance is important to sustainably support
development goals
7. Criticisms of World Bank:
 It was started to reduce poverty but it support United State’s business
interests

11 | P a g e
  It is deeply implicated in contemporary mods of donor and NGO driven
imperialism
 The President of the World Bank is always citizen of the United States.
 Lack transparency to external publics
 It is an instrument for the promotion of U.S or Western interests.
 The decision-making structure is undemocratic
 It has consistently pushed a “neo-liberal” agenda.
8. Central Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and World Trade Organization (WTO)

 Purpose is to avoid trade wars by raising protection barriers

 On 1 January 1995, the WTO replaced GATT, which had been in existence since
1947, as the organization overseeing the multilateral trading system. The
governments that had signed GATT were officially known as “GATT contracting
parties”. GATT was an international treaty with a temporary international
existence, whereas the World Trade Organization is a permanent body whose
authority has been ratified by its many member nations. GATT was an agreement
established in 1947, while the WTO is an international organization created in
1995. GATT primarily focused on reducing tariffs on goods, whereas the WTO's
scope extends to services, intellectual property, and agriculture.

 The overall objective of the WTO is to help its members use trade as a means to
raise living standards, create jobs and improve people’s lives. The WTO operates the
global system of trade rules and helps developing countries build their trade
capacity. It also provides a forum for its members to negotiate trade agreements
and to resolve the trade problems they face with each other

 Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland

 Director-General: Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

 Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has reappointed lawyer and diplomat Manuel Antonio
Teehankee as the country's representative to the World Trade Organization (WTO)

 Philippines has been a WTO member since 1 January 1995 and a member of GATT
since 27 December 1979.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN WORLD BANK AND IMF

The process of globalization is facilitated by three major organizations, i.e. World Bank, World Trade
Organization (WTO) and International Monetary Fund (IMF). There is a little bit of bewilderment and
confusion, in the mind of many people regarding the IMF and World Bank regarding their functions,
objectives, structure, member nations, etc. The fundamental difference between IMF and World Bank
is that the bank is established as a development organization whereas the fund is founded as a
cooperative organization.

World Bank provides financial and technical aid to the developing nations of the world. On the other
hand, IMF is formed to promote financial stability, international trade, high employment, reduce
poverty and so on. Here, in this article we have explained the difference between world bank and IMF,
take a read.

12 | P a g e
Comparison Chart

BASIS FOR
IMF WORLD BANK
COMPARISON
Meaning An international organization A global organization established to
maintaining the global finance and advice the developing
monetary system is the nations, in order to make them
International Monetary Fund. economically developed is World
Bank.
Focus on Economic Stability Economic Growth
Size 2300 staff members 7000 staff members
Organizational It is a single organization with It has two major institutions, namely
Structure four credit lines. International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development
(IBRD) and the International
Development Association (IDA).
Membership 188 countries IBRD - 188 countries
IDA - 172 countries
Operations Provides assistance Facilitates lending
Objective To deal with all the issues related To lessen poverty and promote the
to the financial sector and long term development of the
macroeconomics. economy

The following are the major differences between IMF and World Bank:

1. The International Monetary Fund is a controller of the world’s monetary system. World Bank is a global
financial institution.
2. The IMF focuses on bringing economic stability, whereas the World Bank laid emphasis on
economic growth of the developing nations.
3. The size of the World Bank is more than three times larger than the size of the International
Monetary Fund.
4. The International Monetary Organization is a unitary organization while the World Bank is bilateral
organization.
5. At present, there are 188 member countries of the IMF, but if we talk about world bank, it has 188
member countries of IBRD and 172 member countries of IDA.
6. International Monetary Fund came into existence to provide advice and assistance. Conversely, the
World Bank is created to facilitate lending.
7. The major objective of the IMF is to deal with matters related to the financial sector and
macroeconomics. On the other hand, the purpose of the World Bank is to reduce poverty and to
promote economic development.

The IMF and World Bank are the two Bretton Woods Institution, formed in 1944. There
are many things in common, in these two international organizations. Both of them
supports the international monetary and economic system. Almost all the countries
of the world are the members of these two organizations.

13 | P a g e
 Chapter 3: Global Interstate System and Global Governance

UNITED NATIONS

The United Nations (UN) serves as the primary organization for

international cooperation, peace and security.

It was created in 1945 by the Allied Powers, the victors of the Second World
War.

Primary Concern:
Collective military security through the facilitation of peaceful settlement of disputes among
member-states or by commanding allegiance of the entire UN membership; sanctions.

Primary Objective:
To ensure peace and order, the UN as an organization can be a conflict actor in itself or an
instrument for action driven by the interests of particular state.

o Representatives of 50 countries convened at the United Nations Conference on

International Organization, more commonly known as the San Francisco Conference, to
draw up the United Nations Charter.

Six Principal Organs

1) Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)

Primary Objective:
To advance the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable
development.

Composed of 54 elected members by the General Assembly for overlapping three-year

terms

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank (WB) are specialized agencies and
independent organizations that are affiliated with the UN.

2) Trusteeship Council

- The main organ of the UN to provide international supervision of Trust Territories that
are under the administration of seven member-states, to ensure that adequate steps
are being made to prepare the peoples of Trust Territories for self-governance.

3) International Court of Justice (ICJ)

- It is the United Nation’s principal judicial organ. Its role is to settle legal disputes
between states and to provide advisory opinions on legal questions referred by the UN
organs, and specialized agencies

14 | P a g e
4) Security Council (SC)

- It is the most potent organ with the power to make legally binding resolutions.

Composition:
Composed of 15 members
 Five Permanent Members (PM) or Permanent Five (P-5): China, France, Great
Britain, Russia, and the United States
 Ten elected non-permanent members (NPM) elected by the
General Assembly (GA) for overlapping two-year terms - Ten non-permanent
seats are divided among regions:
-five states from African and Asian states
-one seat from the Eastern European States
-two states from Latin American states
-last two from Western European and other States

 Under Article 24 of UN Charter the Security Council is mandated to act on behalf of

the entire UN body to fulfill its primary responsibility for maintaining international
peace and security.

Functions of Security Council: o Investigate any situation that has the potential of
creating international tensions
o Call for military action towards an aggressor or threat o Impose economic
sanctions and other measures
o Determine the existence of a breach of peace and actions to be pursued

 The structural feature on the SC serves as a measure to protect states from

possible threats to independence and to ensure that the UN will not be used to
serve the interest of particular states.
 The structural feature of the UN Charter- veto is a result of an international
compromise allied powers of Second World War.
 The P-5 also act outside the UN Charter and undermine the interest of the larger
UN Body. The over representation and power concentration has resulted in
demands to reform the structure of the SC, which dramatically serves and benefits
of the interests of the P-5.
 To maintain peace and order, the SC adopts a set of instruments such as
sanctions, peacekeeping, and peace enforcement.
 UN peacekeepers are deployed to provide security to populations and political and
peace building support to countries transition from conflict to peace.

5) General Assembly (GA)

- It is the only organ with universal representation, with all 193 members states
represented in the body.
- The GA decides on essential questions with a simple majority, while concerns related
to peace and security, budgetary matters, and new membership admissions require a
two-thirds majority

15 | P a g e
 - The GA meets for annual General Assembly Session and general debate participated by
several heads of state. The body elects a GA President and 21 Vice President every
session for one-year term.

6) Secretariat

- Secretary- General is the chief administrative of the UN Secretariat. In Article 97, the SC
sends a recommendation to the GA which will appoint the Secretary- General for two
five-year terms at most.

Antonio Guterres

- the incumbent Secretary General of United Nations

 Article 99 mandates the Secretary-
General to call for the attention of the members of the SC on threats to international
peace and security, or when the inability of SC members to be responsive or to take
responsibility is present.

Reforming the United nations

- Reform has only been met once in 1963 when the UNGA voted for the expansion of the
UNSC from 11-15 member-states (UNGA Resolution of 1963).
- Reforms have long been raised to change the structure of the security Council to
distribute the concentration of power and to foster inclusive decision making for
marginalized and excluded member-states.

16 | P a g e
 THE GLOBAL INTERSTATE SYSTEM and GLOBAL GOVERNANCE LECTURE
Dr. Simeon B. Abarquez IV

1. Global Interstate System is the whole system of human interactions. The modern
world-system is structured politically as an interstate system – a system of
competing and allying states. Political Scientists commonly call this the
international system, and it is the main focus of the field of International
Relations. ... All world-systems are composed of multiple interacting polities
2. What is the purpose of global interstate system?

To contribute to peace and security by promoting international collaboration

through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms in order to increase universal
respect for justice, the rule of law, and human rights along with fundamental
freedom.

3. Importance of global interstate system

The most important feature of the interstate system is that it is anarchic. Unlike
politics within states, relations between states take place in a Hobbesian 'state of
nature. ' Since an anarchic system is one in which all states constantly face actual or
potential threats, their main goal is security.

4. The global interstate system of globalization

Globalization - results from the removal of barrier s between national economies to

encourage the flow of goods, services, capital, and labor.

Interstate System - it is the fundamental basis of the competitive commodity economy

at the global system level.

5. What is the interstate system in international relations?-

As the international relations between two states are dominated by interstate

relations, so their relations are dominated by coercion, threats, and force.
International violence is shaped by and a consequence of state power
.
6. What is international system?
The term international system may refer to: In politics, international relations. It is
the global constellation of states.

7. Global Interstate System. It is the whole system of human interactions. The modern
world-system is structured politically as an interstate system a system of competing
and allying states. Political Scientists commonly call this the international system,
and it is the main focus of the field of International Relations

17 | P a g e
 8. International Relations – is the study of interconnectedness of politics,economics, and
law on a global level.

The United Nations

Peace, Dignity and Equality on a healthy planet
True place where the world's nations gather together, discuss common problems and
find shared solutions.

In 2017, the UN Global Compact Office in New York, in collaboration with its Local
Networks, created a shared set of values and behaviours to guide the work of every staff
member as we strive to achieve our mission.
Based on the three core values of the United Nations — Integrity, Professionalism and
Respect for Diversity — an additional nine values and behaviours were agreed upon to
serve as the guiding spirit for our work at the UN Global Compact.
By truly embracing and living these values, we will be able to achieve our ambitious
goals.

Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for diversity

Integrity
 Demonstrate the values of UN
 Act without consideration of personal gain
 Resist undue political pressure
 Stand by decisions in the organization’s
interest
 Do not abuse power or authority
 Take prompt action in cases of unprofessional
or unethical behaviour

Professionalism
 Show pride in work and achievements
 Demonstrate professional competence
 Be conscientious and efficient in meeting
commitments
 Be motivated by professional rather than
personal concerns
 Show persistence when faced with challenges
 Remain calm in stressful
Situations

Respect for Diversity

 Work effectively with people from all
backgrounds
 Treat all people with dignity and respect
 Treat men and women equally
 Show respect for diverse points of view

18 | P a g e
 Examine own biases and behaviours
 Do not discriminate against any individual or
group
In this contemporary world, we are governed by a super body, the United Nations.
This is the one who will intervene, hear and resolve disputes among its member
nations. The Philippines is one of the members. There 193 member (South Sudan on 14
July 2011 as the 193rd Member of the United Nations) states of the United Nations (UN).
The United Nation was founded in 1945, just after the Second World War. (The UN’s
Membership has grown from the original 51 Member States in 1945 to the current 193
Member States.)

All UN Member States are members of the General Assembly. States are admitted to
membership by a decision of the General Assembly upon the recommendation of the
Security Council
The main organs of the UN are the General Assembly, the Security Council, the Economic
and Social Council, the Trusteeship Council, the International Court of Justice, and
the UN Secretariat.
The UN serves as the primary organization for international cooperation, peace, and
security. It is the only international organization that can authorize the use of force
against an aggressor. Its primary concern is collective military security through the
facilitation of peaceful settlement of disputes among member-states.
António Guterres, Portuguese politician and diplomat and the ninth Secretary-General of the
United Nations, took office on 1st January 2017. A member of the Portuguese Socialist
Party, Guterres served as prime minister of Portugal from 1995 to 2002.

Secretary-General said, “In the end, it comes down to values [...] We want the world our
children inherit to be defined by the values enshrined in the UN Charter: peace, justice,
respect, human rights, tolerance and solidarity.”

19 | P a g e
UNSDG 2030
The Sustainable Development Goals are the blueprint to achieve a better and more
sustainable future for all. They address the global challenges we face, including those
related to poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and
justice. The 17 Goals are all interconnected, and in order to leave no one behind, it is
important that we achieve them all by 2030. Click on any specific Goal below to learn
more about each issue and take action.
1. No Poverty
2. Zero Hunger
3. Good Health and Well-being
4. Quality Education
5. Gender Equality
6. Clean Water and Sanitation
7. Affordable and Clean Energy
8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
9. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
10. Reduced Inequalities
11. Sustainable Cities and Communities
12. Responsible Consumption and Production
13. Climate Action
14. Life Below Water
15. Life on Land
16. Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
17. Partnership

2.1 UNITED NATIONS ORGANIZATIONAL BODY

2.1.1 General Assembly.
 The General Assembly is the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ
of the UN. All 193 Member States of the UN are represented in the General Assembly,
making it the only UN body with universal representation.
 Each year, in September, the full UN membership meets in the General Assembly Hall
in New York for the annual General Assembly session, and general debate, which
many heads of state attend and address. Decisions on important questions,
such as those on peace and security, admission of new members and budgetary
matters, require a two-thirds majority of the General Assembly. Decisions on
other questions are by simple majority.
 The General Assembly, each year, elects a GA President to serve a one-year term of
office.
 Dennis Francis, President of the United Nations General Assembly
 Dennis Francis is a diplomat from Trinidad and Tobago who has served as his
country's permanent representative to the United Nations in New York since 2021. On
1 June 2023 he was elected to serve as President of the United Nations General
Assembly at its seventy-eighth session, beginning his term on 5 September 2023.
2.1.2. Security Council.
 The most potent organ with the power to make legally binding resolutions.
 It is comprised of the strongest military states.

20 | P a g e
  The council is composed of 15 members (5 permanent and 10 non-permanent
members). Each Member has one vote
 The Security Council has primary responsibility, under the UN Charter, for the
maintenance of international peace and security. The Security Council takes the
lead in determining the existence of a threat to the peace or act of aggression. It
calls upon the parties to a dispute to settle it by peaceful means and
recommends methods of adjustment or terms of settlement.
 In some cases, the Security Council can resort to imposing sanctions or even
authorize the use of force to maintain or restore international peace and security.
 The Security Council has a Presidency, which rotates, and changes, every month.
 Subsidiary Organs in the UN Security Council Under Article 29 of the Charter of the
United Nations, the Security Council “may establish such subsidiary organs as it
deems necessary for the performance of its functions”. Here are the following
Commissions and Investigative Bodies.
Sanctions and Other Committees
Standing and Ad hoc Committees
Groups and Panels
International Tribunals
Missions of the Security Council and the Secretary-General
The Peacebuilding Commission
Peacekeeping Missions
Political Missions and Offices
Representatives, Mediators, Coordinators, and Good Offices
Working Groups
Subsidiary Organs Proposed but Not Established

Other Material on Subsidiary Organs

2.1.3. Economic and Social Council.
 The Economic and Social Council is the principal body for coordination, policy
review, policy dialogue and recommendations on economic, social and environmental
issues, as well as implementation of internationally agreed development goals. It
serves as the central mechanism for activities of the UN system and its specialized
agencies in the economic, social and environmental fields, supervising subsidiary
and expert bodies.
 It has 54 Members, elected by the General Assembly for overlapping three-year terms.
It is the United Nations’ central platform for reflection, debate, and innovative
thinking on sustainable development.
2.1.4. Trusteeship Council.
 The Trusteeship Council was established in 1945 by the UN Charter, under Chapter
XIII, to provide international supervision for 11 Trust Territories that had been placed
under the administration of seven Member States, and ensure that adequate
steps were taken to prepare the Territories for self-government and
independence. By 1994, all Trust Territories had attained self-government
or independence.

21 | P a g e
  The Trusteeship Council suspended operation on 1 November 1994. By a resolution
adopted on 25 May 1994, the Council amended its rules of procedure to drop
the obligation to meet annually and agreed to meet as occasion required --by its
decision or the decision of its President, or at the request of a majority of its members
or the General Assembly or the Security Council.
2.1.5. International Court of Justice.
 The International Court of Justice is the principal judicial organ of the United
Nations. Its seat is at the Peace Palace in the Hague (Netherlands).
 It is the only one of the six principal organs of the United Nations not located in New
York (United States of America).
 The Court’s role is to settle, in accordance with international law, legal disputes
submitted to it by States and to give advisory opinions on legal questions
referred to it by authorized United Nations organs and specialized agencies.
2.1.6. Secretariat.
 The Secretariat comprises the Secretary-General and tens of thousands of
international UN staff members who carry out the day-to-day work of the UN as
mandated by the General Assembly and the Organization's other principal organs.
 The Secretary-General is chief administrative officer of the Organization,
appointed by the General Assembly on the recommendation of the Security
Council for a five-year, renewable term. UN staff members are recruited
internationally and locally, and work in duty stations and on peacekeeping missions
all around the world. But serving the cause of peace in a violent world is a dangerous
occupation. Since the founding of the United Nations, hundreds of brave men and
women have given their lives in its service.

UNDERTAKINGS OF UNITED NATIONS

Since its establishment in 1945, the United Nations has been active in extensive areas
including peace-keeping, arms control, the North-South problem, social and human
rights issues.
2.2.1. Maintain International Peace and Security. The United Nations came into being
in 1945, following the devastation of the Second World War, with one central mission:
the maintenance of international peace and security. The UN does this by working
to prevent conflict; helping parties in conflict make peace; peacekeeping; and
creating the conditions to allow peace to hold and flourish. These activities often
overlap and should reinforce one another, to be effective. The UN Security Council has
the primary responsibility for international peace and security. The General Assembly
and the Secretary-General play major, important, and complementary roles, along with
other UN offices and bodies.

2.2.2. Protect Human Rights. The term “human rights” was mentioned seven times in the
UN's founding Charter, making the promotion and protection of human rights a key
purpose and guiding principle of the Organization. In 1948, the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights brought human rights into the realm of
international law. Since then, the Organization has diligently protected human rights
through legal instruments and on-the-ground activities.

22 | P a g e
2.2.3. Deliver Humanitarian Aid. One of the purposes of the United Nations, as stated in
its Charter, is "to achieve international co-operation in solving international problems of
an economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian character." The UN first did this in the
aftermath of the Second World War on the devastated continent of Europe, which it
helped to rebuild. The Organization is now relied upon by the international community
to coordinate humanitarian relief operations due to natural and man-made disasters in
areas beyond the relief capacity of national authorities alone

.2.2.4. Promote Sustainable Development. From the start in 1945, one of the main
priorities of the United Nations was to “achieve international co-operation in solving
international problems of an economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian
character and in promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and for
fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion.
”Improving people’s well-being continues to be one of the main focuses of the UN. The
global understanding of development has changed over the years, and countries now
have agreed that sustainable development –development that promotes
prosperity and economic opportunity, greater social well-being, and protection of the
environment –offers the best path forward for improving the lives of people everywhere.

2.2.5. Uphold International Law. The UN Charter, in its Preamble, set an objective: "to
establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from
treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained". Ever since, the
development of, and respect for international law has been a key part of the work of the
Organization. This work is carried out in many ways -by courts, tribunals,
multilateral treaties -and by the Security Council, which can approve
peacekeeping missions, impose sanctions, or authorize the use of force when there
is a threat to international peace and security, if it deems this necessary. These powers
are given to it by the UN Charter, which is considered an international treaty. As such,
it is an instrument of international law, and UN Member States are bound by it. The UN
Charter codifies the major principles of international relations, from sovereign equality
of States to the prohibition of the use of force in international relations.

2.3. OTHER INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

2.3.1.The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
The OECD is an organization providing a forum for developed countries which
share fundamental values and principles of politics and economy to freely discuss a
broad range of topics other than politics and military affairs. Serving as the world
opinion leader, the OECD has been searching for ways to ensure sustainable
development of the world by identifying and analyzing potential problems which may
confront the international community in the future. For instance, the OECD
became concerned with the global environmental problem long before the problem
came to attract attention worldwide as seen today. Accordingly, it has studied the
problem from all angles by giving full play to its expertise in economic analysis. Also,
the OECD has recently established the Center for Cooperation in Changing European
Economies and is about to play a leading role in integrating East European countries
into the world economy by providing these rapidly changing countries with
knowledge and know-how on the market economy of OECD member countries.
Japan, highly appreciating such roles by the OECD, has actively taken part in
all discussions at the OECD and extended financial contributions comparable to

23 | P a g e
those of the United States. Thus, Japan has played a leading role matching its
international presence

LECTURE: Global Interstate System and Global Governance 11/09/2023

The global interstate system refers to the framework of interactions and relationships among
sovereign states on a global scale. It encompasses the network of diplomatic, economic, political,
and social interactions that characterize the international order. This system is often shaped by
treaties, alliances, trade agreements, and international organizations, and it plays a crucial role
in determining the dynamics of international relations. Key features of the global interstate
system include:

1. *Sovereign States:*
The fundamental actors in the global interstate system are sovereign states. Each state is
considered an independent political entity with its own government, territory, and population.

2. *International Organizations:*
Entities like the
United Nations, World Trade Organization (WTO), and International Monetary Fund (IMF)
contribute to the global interstate system by providing platforms for diplomatic negotiations,
fostering cooperation, and addressing global issues.

3. *Diplomacy and Foreign Relations:*

Diplomacy is a central aspect of the global interstate system, involving the formal representation
of states and the negotiation of agreements to advance mutual interests or resolve conflicts.

4. *International Law:*
Treaties, conventions, and agreements form the basis of international law, guiding the behavior
of states in areas such as human rights, environmental protection, and conflict
resolution.

5. *Trade and Economic Relations:*

Global economic interactions, including trade agreements and economic alliances, are integral
components of the global interstate system. These interactions influence economic development,
prosperity, and geopolitical dynamics.

6. *Security Alliances:*
Military alliances, such as NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) and regional security
organizations,
contribute to the security ,dimension of the global interstate system.

7. *Power Dynamics:*
Power dynamics among states, whether in terms of military strength, economic influence, or
diplomatic
leverage, shape the hierarchical structure of the global interstate system.

Understanding the global interstate system involves analyzing the complex web of relationships,
agreements, and conflicts that characterize interactions among sovereign states on the world
stage. It serves as the foundation for studying international relations and geopolitics. Global
governance within the United Nations refers to the mechanisms, structures, and processes

24 | P a g e
through which international cooperation and coordination are facilitated to address global
challenges and promote collective decision-making. The United Nations, as a key player in global
governance, provides a platform for member states to come together, discuss issues of common
concern, and work towards shared goals. Here are some key aspects of global governance within
the United Nations:

1. *Multilateral Cooperation:*
The UN serves as a forum for multilateral cooperation, where member states engage in dialogue,
negotiations, and joint decision-making to address global issues. This includes
discussions within various UN bodies, such as the General Assembly, Security Council, and
specialized agencies.

2. *International Law:*
The UN plays a crucial role in the development and promotion of international law. Treaties,
conventions, and agreements negotiated within the UN framework form the basis of legal norms
that guide state behavior in areas such as human rights, environmental protection,
and arms control.

3. *Peacekeeping and Conflict Resolution:*

The UN is involved in peacekeeping operations and conflict resolution efforts worldwide. The
Security Council, a key component of global governance, authorizes peacekeeping missions to
address conflicts and maintain international peace and security.

4. *Humanitarian Assistance:*
Through agencies like the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the
World Food Programme (WFP), the UN coordinates humanitarian assistance to address crises
such as natural disasters, conflicts, and refugee situations.

5. *Sustainable Development:*
The UN promotes sustainable development through initiatives like the Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs). Memberstates collaborate to address global challenges, including poverty,
inequality, climate change, and access to education and healthcare.

6. *Specialized Agencies:*
Various UN specialized agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), International
Labour Organization (ILO), and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO), contribute to global governance by focusing on specific areas of
expertise and fostering international
collaboration.

7. *Global Economic Coordination:*

The UN facilitates discussions on global economic issues through bodies like the Economic and
Social Council (ECOSOC) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), promoting international
economic cooperation and development.

8. *Adherence to Universal Values:*

The UN upholds universal values such as human rights, equality, and justice, fostering a
shared commitment among member states to uphold these principles in their domestic and
international policies. While the UN is a central actor in global governance, it is important to
note that the concept extends beyond the UN to include other international organizations,
regional bodies, and non-state
actors contributing to the governance of global affairs. Global governance aims to address
interconnected challenges that transcend national borders and require collaborative solutions.

The
25 | P a g e
various councils within the United Nations, each playing a distinctive role in addressing global
challenges and maintaining international peace and security.

1. *Security Council:*
*Purpose:*
The Security Council is entrusted with maintaining international peace and security.
*Composition:*
It consists of 15 member states, with five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the
United Kingdom, and the United States) possessing veto power.
*Functions:*
The Security Council can authorize peacekeeping operations, impose sanctions, and, in extreme
cases, authorize the use of force.

2. *General Assembly:*
*Purpose:*
The General Assembly serves as a forum for all UN member states to discuss and coordinate on
international issues.
*Composition:*
All 193 member states have representation in the General Assembly.
*Functions:*
It deliberates on global issues, adopts resolutions, and establishes policies on a wide range of
subjects, including development, human rights, and international law.

3. *Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC):*

*Purpose:*
ECOSOC focuses on international economic, social, and related issues.
*Composition:*
It consists of 54 member states elected by the General Assembly.
*Functions:*
ECOSOC coordinates the work of 14 specialized UN
agencies, commissions, and functional committees, working towards sustainable
development and addressing social challenges.

4.*International Court of Justice (ICJ):*

*Purpose:*
The ICJ is the principal judicial organ of the UN, settling legal disputes between states.
*Composition:*
It comprises 15 judges elected by the General Assembly and the Security Council.
*Functions:*
The ICJ issues advisory opinions and settles legal disputes based on international law,
contributing to the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

5. *Human Rights Council:*

*Purpose:*
Focused on promoting and protecting human rights worldwide.
*Composition:*
Consists of 47 member states elected by the General Assembly.
*Functions:*
Reviews the human rights records of UN member states, addresses violations, and makes
recommendations to promote and protect human rights globally.

6. *UNESCO - United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization:*

*Purpose:*
UNESCO aims to build a just, inclusive, peaceful, and open knowledge society.
*Composition:*
Member states and associate members form the General Conference and Executive Board.
*Functions:*
Promotes international collaboration in education, science, culture, and communication to

26 | P a g e
 foster intellectual dialogue and understanding. These councils and organizations within the
United Nations work collaboratively to address multifaceted global challenges, reflecting the
organization's commitment to fostering international cooperation and sustainable development.

Global governance within the United Nations refers to the mechanisms, structures, and
processes through which international cooperation and coordination are facilitated to address
global challenges and promote collective decision-making. The United Nations, as a key player in
global governance, provides a platform for member states to come together, discuss issues of
common concern, and work towards shared goals.

Chapter 4: Global Divides: The North and South

North- South divide can be related to an economic division between richer and poorer
countries.

This explains the reason why it is considered to be more of a socio political and economic
classification.
The Global North
- It is generally viewed to be more affluent and economically stable countries and generally
includes the United States of America, Canada, the member nations of the G8(Group of 8),
the four permanent members of the UN Security Council.
- This includes countries that lie below the equator namely Australia and New Zealand.
- We could find in the North the More Economically Developed Countries (MEDCs) in the
world. Some countries which lay in the North part of the divide are Canada, United States,
Greenland, and Russia. They are considered the “richer” and more stable countries.

File
Photo: G8 member states

Why are the countries in the North considered MEDC?

The countries are considered MEDC because of: o Economic

Stability
o Better standard of living and quality of life
o High life expectancy o Free quality education o Free universal
healthcare

The Global South

- It includes most nations located in Africa, Latin America, and the developing parts of Asia
with the exception of Japan.

27 | P a g e
 - The area below the North-South Divide is known as the South/developing, or “Poor side.”
These countries are known as developing countries, meaning the GDP, HDI and general
standard of living within these countries are considered inferior to that of countries in the
“North”. Some examples of these countries include Somalia, Vietnam, Haiti and India.

Why are countries in the South considered LEDCs?

The countries in the south may be considered LEDCs because of: o Unstable
government o Poor economy
o Contain citizen who have a poor standard of living and quality of life
o Low Gross Domestic Product (GDP) o Low Human Development Index
(HDI)

Why is the South at such a disadvantage?

Of the many possible reasons for the south’s woes, the one factor that stands out is
colonization. When the countries that are considered MEDC are listed down, it becomes
apparent that the most of these countries were, at some point in history, imperialists. From
the 13th century, most countries that were powerful have stayed powerful, such as France
and the United Kingdom. And therefore, most countries that were inferior have stayed
inferior. However, like any aspect in history, there is always an exception, as the United
States, a former British colony, has developed into the most powerful country in the world.
(Guttal, 2016).
It can be argued that the division goes beyond merely geographical since not all states
found north of the equator belong to the Global North and in the same manner, not all
states that lie south of the equator form part of the Global South
One attempt to produce an objective classification uses the UNDP’s Human Development
Index to differentiate.
In brief, the Global North consists of those 64 countries which have a high HDI (mot of
which are located north of the 30 th northern parallel), while the remaining 133 countries
belong to the Global South

First, Second and Third Worlds

 First World
- Drawn upon political ideologies and alliances with the US and much of the Western
world who preached for Democracy and Capitalism.

 Second World
- The Communist bloc led by USSR (Union of Soviet Socialist Republic)/ Russia, China
and other states who employed Marxist principles.

28 | P a g e
 Third World
- Non-aligned states, the underdeveloped nations and states that have unstable political
and economic conditions.
- Serves as “ready and willing markets” - Coined by a French scholar Alfred Sauvy.

Flashpoints and Perspectives of the Divide

As underdeveloped countries become more visible, they are frequently referred to under
the collective label the “Global South”.
This designation offers as a synthesizing term and consider it ambiguous because it uses
simple geographical criteria to describe a complex social situation which distinguishes
poor countries from the wealthiest.

Global South
- is normally used to mean countries that are faced with social, political and economic
challenges.

- it should be added also that the term rids itself of the negative political and economic
labeling that Third World had before as it is generally seen to be more apolitical.

Three factors by Jean Grugel (1990) that direct the economic development of states within the
Global South are:
– elite behavior within and between nation states
– integration and cooperation within geographic areas
– resulting position of states and regions within the global world market and related
political economic hierarchy

BRICS
- acronym for an association of five major emerging
national economies
- originally the first four were grouped as “BRIC”
- known for their significant influence on regional
affairs and all are members of G20.

In effect, Global North-South is actually seen by many economist as a result of

international free trade and unhindered capital flows across countries which could
definitely catapult development in the South.
Closing the divide has been a goal for many developmental initiatives.
United Nations has developed a program dedicated to narrowing the divide through its
Millennium Development Goals aimed at Sustainable development.
IMF, World Bank and other progressive Northern countries also provides loans and grants
to the Global South countries in order to attain development.

Just a Quick Recap!

 The Global North-South divide is a categorization of nation states based on factors like
economic development, political stability as well as living standards.

29 | P a g e
 This division was fashioned out of the Cold war era categorization of countries into the
First, Second and Third World.
 The Global North-South divide is not simply based on geographical orientation for there
are Asian countries that belong to the Global North.
 The term South was branded out of the Brandt report in 1983.
 The perspective as well as countries that fall under such categorization is in a state of flux
and is constantly changing.

30 | P a g e