N23 Loss of interdependence and identity because of global interactions

Question 1

Intro 1

Answer 1

Global interactions refer to the interconnectedness and interdependence of countries and businesses through trade, communication, technology and cultural exchange. Global interactions have fostered increased economic ties and cultural exchange among nations, but they have also raised concerns about the loss of interdependence and identities.

Question 2

Intro 2

Answer 2

This essay will explore the extent to which countries are losing their interdependence and identity due to global interactions, focusing on trade agreements, global groups, transnational corporations (TNCs), and civil society organisations.

Question 3

Economic Agreements

Point, Evidence

Answer 3

Global interactions have significantly increased economic interdependence among countries, as evidenced by the establishment of trade agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

NAFTA, later renamed the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), was implemented in 1994 and facilitated increased trade and investments between the U.S, Canada, and Mexico.

This agreement led to a surge in foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mexico particularly in manufacturing and export oriented industries.

Question 4

Economic Agreements

Explanation

Answer 4

Supply chains have become more interconnected, particularly in industries like automotive manufacturing, where vehicles manufactured in the U.S. may contain parts sourced from Canada and Mexico.

This economic interdependence highlights how countries rely on one another for goods, services, and labour, fostering a sense of shared interests and mutual benefit.

This suggests that global interactions have strengthened rather than weakened ties between nations.

This has also been effective for LICs in promoting economic interdependence, as evidenced by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), boosting trade and economic cooperation.

Question 5

Wars and conflict

Point, Evidence

Answer 5

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has led to a significant loss of interdependence for Russia, particularly as it has been excluded from various global groups and economic partnerships.

Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Western nations imposed severe sanctions on Russia, leading to its removal from organisations such as the G8 and significant restrictions in its participation in the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Question 6

Wars and conflicts

Explanation

Answer 6

These actions have resulted in a dramatic decline in Russia’s economic interdependence with Western nations.

As a consequence, Russia has found itself increasingly isolated on the global stage, losing access to vital markets and investment opportunities.

This isolation not only undermines Russia’s economic stability but also diminishes its political influence in international affairs.

This illustrates how aggressive actions can lead to a self-inflicted loss of interdependence.

Question 7

TNCs

Point, Evidence

Answer 7

Global interactions facilitated by transnational corporations (TNCs) can lead to cultural homogenisation, resulting in loss of identity.

The global presence of TNCs such as McDonald’s exemplifies how local cultures can be influenced by dominant global cultures.

To adapt to the Indian market, McDonald’s introduced the McAloo Tikki burger, a vegetarian option made that caters to the vegetarian Indian population.

Question 8

TNCs

Explanation

Answer 8

This adaptation, while allowing McDonald’s to thrive in India, also reflects a shift in dietary habits among consumers, particularly younger generations.

As McDonald’s incorporates local spices and flavours into its offerings, it may lead to a gradual decline in the consumption of traditional Indian meals.

The affordability and convenience of fast food may push consumers away from local culinary practices, raising concerns about the loss of cultural identity.

This cultural imperialism highlights the challenges faced by local cultures in maintaining their unique identities amidst global influences.

In an LIC like Malawi, TNCs are unable to glocalise products due to the country’s high levels of poverty and limited consumer spending capacity.

Question 9

Civil society organisations

Point, evidence

Answer 9

Civil society organisations, such as Amnesty International, have been pivotal in advocating for the rights of the Rohingya, a Muslim ethnic minority in Myanmar who have faced systematic discrimination and violence.

Amnesty International’s pointed out how the Rohingya have been subjected to severe restrictions on their rights, including freedom of movement, access to education, and healthcare.

This has nearly caused nearly 1 million people since 2017 to flee to other regions

Question 10

Civil society organisations

Explanations

Answer 10

Amnesty International emphasises the importance of recognising the Rohingya not just as victims of violence but as individuals with a unique history, language, and culture that deserve protection and respect.

This is crucial in preventing the complete loss of their cultural practices and identity, which is threatened by ongoing violence and displacement.

By advocating for the Rohingya’s rights, Amnesty International helps to empower this group and maintains their distinct cultural identity.

Replicating this level of influence in a HIC like the U.S. would likely require adapting the advocacy approach to the local political and economic factors, which may pose additional challenges.