UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN

FACULTY OF ART

DEPARTMENT OF HISTORY AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

COURSE CODE: HIS 222

LECTURER'S NAME: PROF. PETER ADEBAYO

STUDENT NAME: KINGSLEY CHIKEZIE OMEJE

MATRIC NUMBER: 22/15CA216

ASSIGNMENT: THE IMPACT OF GLOBALIZATION ON INTERNATIONAL

SYSTEM.
INTRODUCTION

WHAT IS GLOBALIZATION

Globalisation has defined almost every aspect of our society’s growth over the past 100 years. We’ve got
globalisation to thank for the availability of everyday items like avocados (cultural globalisation), annual
events like Black Friday (globalisation of traditions), and even international cinema on Netflix (digital
globalisation).

simple terms, globalisation is the catch-all term for the process by which items and people move across
borders. From goods and services to money and technology, globalisation promotes and speeds up how
we move and exchange things across the world. Globalization is the process of increasing
interdependence and integration among the economies, markets, societies, and cultures of different
countries worldwide. This is made possible by the reduction of barriers to international trade, the
liberalization of capital movements, the development of transportation, and the advancement of
information and communication technologies.[1] The term globalization first appeared in the early 20th
century (supplanting an earlier French term mondialisation). It developed its current meaning sometime
in the second half of the 20th century, and came into popular use in the 1990s to describe the
unprecedented international connectivity of the post–Cold War world.[2]The origins of globalization can
be traced back to the 18th and 19th centuries, driven by advances in transportation and communication
technologies. These developments increased global interactions, fostering the growth of international
trade and the exchange of ideas, beliefs, and cultures. While globalization is primarily an economic
process of interaction and integration, it is also closely linked to social and cultural dynamics.
Additionally, disputes and international diplomacy have played significant roles in the history and
evolution of globalization, continuing to shape its modern form. Though many scholars place the origins
of globalization in modern times, others trace its history to long before the European Age of Discovery
and voyages to the New World, and some even to the third millennium BCE.[3] Large-scale globalization
began in the 1820s, and in the late 19th century and early 20th century drove a rapid expansion in the
connectivity of the world's economies and cultures.[4] The term global city was subsequently
popularized by sociologist Saskia Sassen in her work The Global City: New York, London, Tokyo (1991).[5]

Economically, globalization involves goods, services, data, technology, and the economic resources of
capital.[6] The expansion of global markets liberalizes the economic activities of the exchange of
 goods and funds. Removal of cross-border trade barriers has made the formation of global markets
more feasible.[7] Advances in transportation, like the steam locomotive, steamship, jet engine, and
container ships, and developments in telecommunication infrastructure such as the telegraph, the
Internet, mobile phones, and smartphones, have been major factors in globalization and have
generated further interdependence of economic and cultural activities around the globe.

Between 1990 and 2010, globalization progressed rapidly, driven by the information and
communication technology revolution that lowered communication costs, along with trade
liberalization and the shift of manufacturing operations to emerging economies (particularly China).

2000, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) identified four basic aspects of globalization: trade and
transactions, capital and investment movements, migration and movement of people, and the
dissemination of knowledge.[14] Globalizing processes affect and are affected by business and work
organization, economics, sociocultural resources, and the natural environment. Academic literature
commonly divides globalization into three major areas: economic globalization, cultural globalization,
and political globalization.[15]

Proponents of globalization point to economic growth and broader societal development as benefits,
while opponents claim globalizing processes are detrimental to social well-being due to
ethnocentrism, environmental consequences, and other potential drawback

What is the history of globalisation?

From ancient trade routes to the formation of international organisations, the exchange of ideas and
trade has, in one way or another, existed as long as us.

There is some debate about what stage in history we should call the beginning of globalisation. Some
believe that globalisation has been around since human migratory routes were formed (as early as the
1st century BC). Certainly, humans have been trading goods forever, but when it comes to moving
goods across borders, the creation of the Silk Road is widely acknowledged to be one of the earliest
large-scale examples of globalisation.

The Silk Road was a trade route between China and Europe which saw Chinese goods being sold in
Europe for the first time. From spices to silk, early global trade routes thrived over land and sea into
the 14th century, but it was at the end of the 15th century when global trade truly took off in the Age
of Discovery.
 During this time, European explorers linked the East and West and discovered the Americas, and now
common-place foods like potatoes, tomatoes, coffee, and chocolate became available in Europe.

Whilst these early examples certainly introduced the world to global trade, it is the Industrial
Revolution that historians truly regard as the beginning of globalisation as we know it today.

The Industrial Revolution and Globalisation

Steamships and trains made the trading of goods faster, and technological advancements meant
during the Industrial Revolution, Britain were making textile, iron and manufactured goods that were
in-demand all over the world. After the World Wars, many countries wanted to remove long standing
trade barriers and encourage tomatoes, coffee, and chocolate became available in Europe.

Whilst these early examples certainly introduced the world to global trade, it is the Industrial
Revolution that historians truly regard as the beginning of globalisation as we know it today.

The Industrial Revolution and Globalisation

Steamships and trains made the trading of goods faster, and technological advancements meant
during the Industrial Revolution, Britain were making textile, iron and manufactured goods that were
in-demand all over the world. After the World Wars, many countries wanted to remove long standing
trade barriers and encourage free trade, as well as set up global organisations.

Today, technology and economic policy has further reduced the barriers permitting the free flow of
goods, services, and capital.

TYPES OF GLOBALISATION...

Despite the common understanding of globalisation as a solely economic or financial concept,

globalisation relates to our lives in a wide variety of ways. Ideas and traditions from around the world
are traded as cultural globalisation, and we fly from country to country freely due to geographical
globalisation.

Examples of Globalisation
Globalisation is more than just the global exchange of money, technology and goods. Below are some
examples of different types of globalisation.

Economic globalisation

The ongoing development of processes, seizing of opportunities, and solving of the challenges of
economic activity around the world. Examples include the spread of capitalism, an increase in market
trading and exports, and the forming of global economic policies.

Cultural globalisation

The sharing and trading of cultural beliefs, traditions, and ideas. Examples of this include the rise of K-
Pop (Korean pop music).

Digital globalisation

The sharing of data and information on digital platforms that speeds up and improves how we connect
to people around the world. Examples include big tech platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and
YouTube.

Financial globalisation

The rise in global financial systems and the exchanging of money globally. Examples include the global
stock market, which relies on the economy as a whole and where a decline in one market has a knock-
on effect on others.

WAYS GLOBALISATION HAD IMPACTED THE INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM

The impact of globalization on internationalrelationsIntroduction:Globalization has transformed

international relations in many ways, creating new economic opportunities, transforming social and
cultural norms, and changing the dynamics of power and influence. In this essay, we will explore the
impact of globalizationon international relations, including the challenges and opportunities that it
presents.The Impact of Globalization on International Relations.

ECONOMY:
Globalization, the increasing interconnectedness of economies through trade, investment, and
technological exchange, has had a significant impact on the international system. It has fostered
economic growth, increased competition, and created opportunities for new markets and cross-
border knowledge transfer. However, it has also led to concerns about intensified competition,
income inequality, and environmental damage in some regions.

Here's a more detailed look at the economic impacts:

Positive Impacts:

Economic Growth:

Globalization has spurred economic growth by opening new markets, facilitating trade and
investment, and enabling the transfer of technology and knowledge.

Increased Productivity:

Competition and access to global markets have encouraged businesses to innovate and improve their
productivity.

Job Creation: Globalization has led to job creation in both developed and developing countries,
especially in sectors like manufacturing and technology.

Access to Resources:

Businesses can access cheaper raw materials, labor, and more efficient ways to produce goods,
leading to lower costs and increased competitiveness.

Negative Impacts:

Intensified Competition:

Globalization can lead to increased competition, which may be difficult for some businesses,
especially smaller companies, to compete with.

Income Inequality:

Globalization has been linked to increased income inequality, both within and between countries, as
some regions and individuals benefit more from the process than others.

Environmental Concerns:

Increased trade and production can lead to higher pollution levels and resource depletion, posing
environmental challenges.

Brain Drain:
Globalization can lead to a "brain drain" as skilled workers from developing countries migrate to
developed countries in search of better opportunities.

Key Aspects of Economic Globalization:

Trade:

Globalization has increased international trade, with countries specializing in areas where they have a
comparative advantage and exporting their goods and services.

Capital Flows:

Globalization has facilitated the movement of capital across borders, with foreign direct investment
(FDI) playing a crucial role.

Technological Transfer:

Globalization has enabled the transfer of technology and knowledge across borders, leading to
advancements in various fields.

Migration: Globalization has also led to increased migration, with people moving across borders in
search of work, education, or better opportunities.

DYNAMIC IN POWER/BALANCE OF POWER (BOP)

Globalization, by increasing interconnectedness and interdependence among nations, has significantly

impacted the international system's power dynamics. While it hasn't fundamentally altered the
nature of power, it has shifted the means and channels by which it is exercised, leading to a more
diffuse power structure. This has resulted in a more complex balance of power, where states, non-
state actors, and international organizations all play a role.

Elaboration:

Shifting Power Dynamics:

Globalization has allowed non-state actors like multinational corporations and NGOs to gain influence,
impacting international relations beyond the traditional state-centric approach.

Elaboration:

Shifting Power Dynamics:

Globalization has allowed non-state actors like multinational corporations and NGOs to gain influence,
impacting international relations beyond the traditional state-centric approach.

Increased Interdependence:
The interconnectedness of global markets and societies means that actions in one country can have
significant consequences in others, leading to increased interdependence.

New Channels of Power:

Globalization has provided new avenues for states and other actors to exercise power, including
through trade, technology, and cultural exchange.

Complex Balance of Power:

The rise of non-state actors and the increased interdependence have made the balance of power
more complex and less easily defined.

Impact on National Governance:

Globalization has pressured national governments to adapt their policies and governance structures
to accommodate global pressures, potentially undermining national sovereignty.

Globalization and Conflict:

While globalization can foster cooperation and trade, it can also exacerbate existing tensions and
create new ones, particularly in resource-scarce areas or regions with differing political systems.

CULTURE.

Globalization, with its increasing cultural exchange, has significantly altered the international system.
It's led to both the spread of cultural ideas and the potential homogenization of cultures, impacting
international relations, diplomacy, and global awareness. Furthermore, it can create both
opportunities for cultural understanding and challenges for preserving cultural diversity.

Key Impacts of Cultural Globalization:

Increased Cultural Exchange:

Globalization facilitates the movement of cultural products (movies, music, books) and ideas across
borders, leading to greater awareness of different cultures and ways of life.

Potential for Homogenization:

The dominance of certain cultures, particularly Western cultures, can lead to the erosion of local
traditions and norms, potentially creating a more homogenous global culture.
Impact on International Relations:

Cultural globalization can influence how countries interact, with diplomats and politicians needing to
navigate a diverse international landscape.

Shifting Cultural Identities:

Individuals and communities may experience changes in their cultural identities as they interact with
and adopt aspects of other cultures.

Cultural Diplomacy and Understanding:

Globalization can also facilitate cultural diplomacy, where countries promote their cultures and
engage in cultural exchange to build stronger relationships and foster mutual understanding.

Challenges to Cultural Preservation:

The dominance of global popular culture can pose a challenge to the preservation of minority cultures
and traditions.

New Forms of Identity:

Globalization can lead to the emergence of hybrid cultures and new forms of identity that blend
influences from different cultural backgrounds.

TECHNOLOGY

Globalization, intertwined with technological advancements, has profoundly reshaped the

international system, fostering interdependence, accelerating communication, and altering the
dynamics of trade, diplomacy, and culture. Technology facilitates international trade, cultural
exchange, and the spread of information, while also presenting challenges like the digital divide and
cybersecurity concerns.

Here's a more detailed look:

1. Interdependence and Integration:

Globalization, fueled by technology, has made the world more interconnected and interdependent.

Cross-border trade, investment, and information flows have significantly increased, leading to greater
economic linkages between nations.

This has resulted in a shift from nation-state centric approaches to more collaborative and multilateral
solutions for global challenges.

2. Technological Advancements:
Technology, particularly digital platforms, has revolutionized international trade and commerce,
making it easier for businesses to expand and reach new markets.

Digital documentation systems and blockchain technologies are streamlining compliance with
international regulations, reducing trade barriers.

Instant communication tools have facilitated direct interaction between people, organizations, and
cultures, changing how nations communicate and collaborate.

3. Impact on Diplomacy and Communication:

Technology has enabled faster and more direct communication between diplomats, facilitating
negotiations and crisis management.

Digital platforms are used for public diplomacy, enabling governmentsto engage with global
audiences and shape international perceptions.

This has led to a shift in how international relations are conducted, with technology playing an
increasingly important role in shaping diplomatic processes.

4. Cultural Exchange and Understanding:

Technology has facilitated cultural exchange and understanding by connecting people from diverse
backgrounds and promoting the sharing of ideas and traditions.

Media globalization and the spread of information via digital technology have fundamentally changed
how cultures view and interact with each other.

However, the potential for cultural homogenization and the dominance of certain cultural narratives
also exist.

5. Challenges and Concerns: The digital divide, the unequal access to technology and the internet,
remains a significant challenge, particularly in developing countries, creating disparities in
opportunities and benefits.

Cybersecurity and privacy concerns are becoming increasingly important as the global digital
landscape becomes more interconnected and vulnerable to cyber threats.

The rapid pace of technological change can also lead to job displacement and economic disruption in
certain sectors.

6. The Future:

Globalization and technology are expected to continue to shape the international system, with
advancements in areas like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy likely to have
profound implications for global trade, development, and security.
 Understanding the complex interplay between globalization and technology is crucial for navigating
the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

LAWS:

Globalization, with its increasing interconnectedness across national borders, has significantly impacted
the international legal system, leading to the rise of specialized regimes like human rights,
environmental, and trade law, and the increasing prominence of rules enacted by intergovernmental
organizations and transnational corporations. This shift has blurred the traditional distinction between
state and global law, challenging the concept of state sovereignty.

Here's a more detailed look at the impact:

1. The Rise of Global Norms and Specialized Regimes:

Globalization has fostered the development of international laws and norms in areas previously
considered the exclusive domain of states, such as human rights, environmental protection, and
international trade.

This has led to the creation of new international institutions and legal frameworks, such as the
International Criminal Court, which deal with issues like international crimes and human rights
violations.

For example, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, while not a legally binding treaty, has become a
powerful moral and political force, influencing national legal systems and international law.

2. Increased Influence of Non-State Actors:

Globalization has led to the rise of non-state actors, particularly transnational corporations, which have
a significant influence on international trade, investment, and even shaping international legal norms.

These actors often have their own internal rules and regulations, which can conflict with or complement
international law.

For example, multinational corporations can exert pressure on governments to adopt specific policies or
regulations that benefit their interests, potentially impacting international law.

3. Blurring of State and Global Law:

The traditional understanding of state sovereignty, which emphasizes the exclusive jurisdiction of states
over their territory and affairs, has been challenged by globalization.

International law increasingly regulates activities that take place across national borders, such as trade,
investment, and migration, impacting the domestic legal systems of states.
This has led to a blurring of the lines between national and international law, as international norms and
regulations increasingly influence domestic legal frameworks.

4. Challenges and Opportunities:

Globalization presents both challenges and opportunities for the international legal system.

While it has facilitated the development of new laws and norms, it has also created challenges in
enforcing these laws and holding non-state actors accountable.

Moreover, globalization can exacerbate existing inequalities, as it can lead to increased competition and
pressure on developing countries, potentially undermining their legal and economic systems.

On the other hand, globalization can also be a force for good, promoting cooperation and shared values,
such as human rights and environmental protection.

NON GOVERMENT ORGANISATION.

Globalization, through its effects on NGOs, has significantly impacted the international system by
increasing the number and influence of NGOs, fostering greater international cooperation, and altering
the relationship between states and non-state actors. NGOs have become crucial actors in global policy-
making, impacting areas like human rights, development, and international trade.

Elaboration:

Increased Influence of NGOs:

Globalization has facilitated the growth and internationalization of NGOs, leading to their increased
participation in international decision-making.

Globalized Relationship between States and NGOs:

Governments increasingly view NGOs as partners and implementers of programs, integrating them into
public discourse and policy-making processes. Shift in International Power Dynamics:

NGOs have become non-state actors and transnational actors, influencing global policy construction
across various sectors.

Impact on Global Governance:

NGOs play a role in promoting international cooperation, advocating for specific policies, and mobilizing
public support for international initiatives.

Complex Relationship with State Authority:

While NGOs can contribute to state legitimacy and address shortcomings in areas like development,
they can also create problems for states by competing for resources and weakening their human
resource potential, according to Global Journal of Human-Social Science.

Influence on Global Social Contract:

NGOs have a demonstrable impact on the construction of global social contracts, advocating for issues
like labor standards and access to medicine, says

Influence on Global Social Contract:

NGOs have a demonstrable impact on the construction of global social contracts, advocating for issues
like labor standards and access to medicine.

In essence, globalization has transformed NGOs into powerful actors within the international system,
influencing global policy, shifting the power dynamics between states and non-state actors, and
contributing to the evolution of global governance.

SOVEREINTY OF STATES

Globalization has impacted state sovereignty in several ways:

- *Erosion of State Control*: Globalization has led to a decline in state control over economic and social
processes, as multinational corporations and international institutions play a larger role in shaping global
policies.

- *Increased Influence of International Institutions*: International institutions such as the World Trade
Organization (WTO), International Monetary Fund (IMF), and United Nations (UN) have gained more
influence over state policies, potentially limiting state sovereignty.

- *Free Flow of Information and Ideas*: The spread of information and ideas across borders has created
new challenges for states to control the narrative and maintain their authority.

- *Human Rights and International Law*: Globalization has led to increased emphasis on human rights
and international law, which can limit state sovereignty in areas such as human rights, environmental
protection, and labor standards.

- *Global Governance*: Globalization has created a need for global governance, which can lead to a
pooling of sovereignty among states to address common challenges.
However, some argue that:

- *States Still Hold Significant Power*: Despite globalization, states still retain significant power and
authority, particularly in areas such as national security, law enforcement, and social welfare.

- *States Can Adapt to Globalization*: States can adapt to globalization by developing new strategies
and policies to maintain their sovereignty while still benefiting from global economic integration.

The impact of globalization on sovereignty is complex and multifaceted, and its effects can vary
depending on the specific context and state in question.

IN CONCLUSION

Globalization is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has both positive and negative impacts.
While it has created new opportunities for economic growth and cultural exchange, it has also
exacerbated inequality and environmental concerns. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected,
it's essential to address these challenges and ensure that the benefits of globalization are shared by all.