The Impact of Globalization on Conflict Resolution

Introduction

• Discussion on globalization's effects on conflict resolution
• Includes both armed conflicts and general tensions between states

Arguments for Globalization Reducing Conflict

Economic Globalization

• Incentives for Integration:
  • Economic globalization encourages global economic integration
  • Greater prosperity seen with increased integration
  • Economic ties through supply chains discourage conflict (The "Dell Theory" by Thomas Friedman)
• Example: European Union's origins in coal and steel integration to prevent war

Political Globalization

• Diplomatic Resolutions:
  • Political globalization facilitates peaceful resolutions over conflicts
  • International law provides jurisdictions for diplomatic dispute resolution

Counterarguments - Globalization's Detrimental Effects

Economic Disparities

• Wealth Inequality:
  • Uneven distribution of global wealth
  • Disparities between Global North and South leading to tensions
  • Historical and neocolonialism issues contributing to economic inequality

Geopolitical Instabilities

• Political Hostilities:
  • Examples: Trump Administration's foreign policy
  • Reneging on international agreements (e.g., Iran nuclear deal)
  • Hostilities towards international institutions (e.g., ICC, WTO)

Cultural Globalization and Misinformation

• Spread of Dangerous Ideas:
  • Misinformation from extremist groups (e.g., ISIS)
  • Far-right movements spreading conflict
  • Russia-Ukraine conflict as a failure of globalization to prevent war

Conflict Resolution Mechanisms

• International Law and Institutions:
  • International Court of Justice: Adjudicates public international law disputes
  • WTO Dispute Settlement: Resolves trade disputes
  • Other tribunals for specialized disputes (e.g., law of the sea)

Limitations of Globalization in Conflict Resolution

• Existing Conflicts and Tensions:
  • Globalization hasn't fully prevented conflicts (e.g., Russian actions in Ukraine)
  • Historical agreements like the Helsinki Accords being violated

Conclusion

• Arguments for and against globalization's role in conflict prevention
• Next Lesson: Impact of Globalization on the Environment