UNIT 12 GLOBAL RESISTANCES (GLOBAL SOCIAL MOVEMENTS AND NGOS)*

Question 1

12.2 GLOBAL RESISTANCE
1) Explain how the globalisation and global resistance define the current
century?

Answer 1

Pointer Summary (Keywords)

Resistance to Globalization: Reform and counter global practices.

Key Movements: Participatory democracy, autonomous communities, alternative economies (e.g., Local Exchange Trading Systems).

Protests: Named after dates (e.g., J16) or events (e.g., Battle of Seattle).

Anti-War Roots: Linked to US/UK militarism post-9/11, particularly in West Asia.

Global Civil Society (GCS): Democratizes globalization; promotes global justice, law, empowerment (Mary Kaldor).

GCS Sphere: Beyond family, state, market; focuses on ideas, values, networks.

500-Word Explanation

Introduction

Resistance to globalization is a multidimensional response aiming to counter and reform the global system. It reflects the tension between demands for local autonomy and broader global justice frameworks, propelled by grassroots activism and intellectual movements.

Global Resistance Overview

1. Reform and Counter-Movements:

Resistance targets unregulated globalization while seeking alternatives.

Some promote local democracy and autonomous communities, leveraging alternative economic models like Local Exchange Trading Systems.

Others push for representative global governance structures accountable to citizens.

2. Backdrop:

Post-Cold War democratization demands and intensifying global interconnectedness have driven resistance efforts.

Protest movements often erupt during major international events (e.g., “Battle for Seattle” during WTO meetings).

3. Naming Protests:

Movements are often named after significant dates (e.g., J16 for “June 16th”) or events to symbolize their global resistance.

Post-9/11 Anti-Globalization Movements

The movement expanded to anti-militarist protests targeting US/UK interventions in West Asia.

The resistance aligns with anti-war activism, reflecting broader discontent with globalization’s militarized facets.

Global Civil Society (GCS)

1. Concept and Role:

Defined as a space of ideas, values, networks outside state, market, and familial institutions.

Advocates global democratization, justice, and rule of law.

2. Kaldor’s Perspective:

GCS aims to “civilize globalization” by embedding democratic principles in global processes.

Represents efforts for global empowerment and accountability beyond national borders.

Conclusion

Resistance to globalization combines local and global efforts, striving for equity, accountability, and participatory governance. The role of GCS, as conceptualized by Mary Kaldor, underscores the transformative potential of values-driven global networks in addressing the challenges of unchecked globalization. These movements signify the evolving intersection of grassroots activism and global policymaking, with a shared focus on justice and inclusivity.

Question 2

12.3 UNDERLYING THEORETICAL
FORMULATIONS
1) Discuss theoretical explanations of global resistance?

Answer 2

Pointer Summary (Keywords)

Countervailing Power (J.K. Galbraith): Reaction to corporate domination.

Political Action (Gills): Resistance transforms political systems.

Cultural Reaction (Chin & Mittelman): Resistance as cultural processes.

Struggle for Survival (Md. Nuruzzaman): Broader socio-political-economic context.

Polanyi’s Counter-Movement: Society’s response to capitalism’s disruption.

Gramsci’s Counter-Hegemony: Oppressed groups reclaiming power.

Hardt & Negri’s Empire: Multidimensional global imperial logic.

Friedman’s Lexus vs. Olive Tree: Modernization vs. tradition.

Dynamic Resistance: Movements evolve with technology and crises.

Global Social Justice: Ideology for rights and law advancement.

Third Force (GCS): Bridge between market and state.

Mnemonic

“CPCS-HF-DGT”

C: Countervailing Power

P: Political Action

C: Cultural Reaction

S: Struggle for Survival

H: Hardt & Negri’s Empire

F: Friedman’s Lexus vs. Olive Tree

D: Dynamic Resistance

G: Global Social Justice

T: Third Force (GCS)

500-Word Explanation with Keywords

Introduction

Global resistance to globalization is supported by diverse theoretical formulations emphasizing political, cultural, and societal responses. These theories attempt to unpack the complex interplay between global capitalism, social justice, and emerging civil societies, providing tools for understanding resistance movements.

Body

1. Countervailing Power (J.K. Galbraith):

Global civil society emerged as a reaction to corporate domination and neo-liberal policies in globalization.

Resistance reflects the backlash against neo-liberal triumph (Buzan, 2004).

2. Political Action (Gills):

Resistance functions as a transformative political tool.

It works to represent broader societal interests and provide alternatives to current systems.

3. Cultural Reaction (Chin & Mittelman):

Movements shape and are shaped by cultural processes, resisting the homogenizing tendencies of globalization.

Resistance is not solely political but deeply rooted in cultural identity.

4. Struggle for Survival (Md. Nuruzzaman):

Resistance is contextualized within political, economic, and social struggles.

It is viewed as a multifaceted struggle beyond isolated political or cultural reactions.

5. Polanyi’s Counter-Movement:

Resistance is likened to societal self-defense against capitalism’s polarizing effects.

Seeks to reclaim markets and mitigate industrial capitalism’s disruptions.

6. Gramsci’s Counter-Hegemony:

Focuses on actions by subaltern groups to challenge ruling-class power structures.

Resistance aims to democratize state control and realign global political relations.

7. Hardt & Negri’s Empire:

Globalization represents a new imperial logic with decentralized power systems.

Resistance addresses complex processes involving economy, technology, and sovereignty.

Criticism: Fails to address US exceptionalism and militarism comprehensively.

8. Friedman’s Lexus vs. Olive Tree:

Contrasts modernization (Lexus) with tradition (Olive Tree).

Criticized for underestimating the oppressive features of globalization.

9. Dynamic Resistance:

Movements adapt to technological innovations, global crises, and socio-political changes.

Highlights the evolutionary nature of resistance amid global challenges.

10. Global Social Justice:

Advocates human rights, international law, and citizen networks to monitor global governance.

Emerges as a middle force between markets (TNCs) and states.

11. Third Force (Global Civil Society):

Acts as a bridge between state and market, focusing on global ethics and justice.

Conclusion

Theoretical perspectives on global resistance showcase diverse reactions to globalization’s impact. From countervailing powers and cultural responses to dynamic adaptations, these frameworks underscore the evolving struggle for global equity and justice. Global civil society emerges as a pivotal force, bridging the gap between state-centric and market-driven global systems, fostering a more balanced global order.

Question 3

12.4 RESISTING GLOBALISATION

Answer 3

Pointer Summary (Keywords)

Resistance: Response to neoliberal reforms’ effects on economy, politics, and culture.

Core Values: Non-violence, democracy, justice, inclusiveness, peace, equality, secularism, solidarity.

Transnational Actions: Global movements influencing governance and norms.

Historical Parallels: Chipko, Ogoni, Zapatistas, IMF riots, African nationalism.

Technology Use: Internet and media aiding modern resistance.

World Social Forum (WSF): Platform for alter-globalist ideals and justice campaigns.

Mnemonic

“RCTHW-W”

R: Resistance

C: Core Values

T: Transnational Actions

H: Historical Parallels

T: Technology Use

W: World Social Forum

500-Word Answer with Keywords

Introduction

Resistance to globalization encapsulates the collective efforts of social groups and individuals countering the adverse effects of neoliberal reforms. These movements challenge globalization’s dislocating impacts on economy, politics, and culture while advocating for alternative governance and social justice ideals.

Body

1. Resistance and Core Values

Aimed at addressing neoliberalism’s negative consequences.

Advocates for non-violence, democracy, social justice, inclusiveness, peace, and equality.

Opposes patriarchy, discrimination, and chauvinism in all forms.

2. Transnational Actions

Movements work beyond borders to influence international governance.

Examples: Narmada Movement in India halted dam construction via local and global coalitions.

Activists engage in persuasion, information dissemination, and moral pressure for reform.

3. Historical Parallels

Linked to earlier resistance movements like:

Chipko movement: Environmental activism in India.

Ogoni People Movement: Opposed Shell Oil in Nigeria.

Zapatistas: Mixed violent and non-violent methods, used media innovatively.

IMF Riots: Protests against financial exploitation in multiple continents.

Tiananmen Square: Democracy protests in China.

These movements resisted colonial influences and unrestrained capitalism.

4. Technology Use in Modern Resistance

Internet and social media are pivotal tools for mobilization.

Resistance movements adopt digital platforms (e.g., Facebook, forums) for:

Disseminating information.

Building solidarity.

Coordinating protests globally.

5. World Social Forum (WSF)

A response to the World Economic Forum, representing alter-globalist ideals.

Motto: “Another World is Possible.”

Inclusive platform with participants from 100+ countries advocating for global social justice.

Functions as a pedagogical space fostering learning, networking, and collaboration.

6. Shift in Resistance Approaches

Emphasis on global solidarity rather than localized activism.

Movements combine modern technology and grassroots participation to address systemic issues.

Conclusion

Resistance to globalization represents a multifaceted struggle encompassing economic, political, and cultural challenges. Movements like the WSF and historical precedents reflect a shared vision for a more equitable global order. Leveraging core values, transnational actions, and technology, these resistances aim to redefine globalization as a platform for justice and inclusiveness rather than exploitation. The evolving nature of resistance underscores its resilience and adaptability in addressing globalization’s challenges.

Question 4

12.5 Global Social Movements
12.5.1 Resistance Movements: Types of Social Movements

Answer 4

Pointer Summary (Keywords)

Social Movements: Resistance to status quo and rights violations.

State Interaction: Complex reliance and opposition dynamic.

Alter-Globalisation Protests: Opposition to financial globalization (WTO, IMF).

Local Movements: Grassroots resistance to livelihood threats (e.g., Plachimada).

National Movements: Organized protests by trade unions and farmers (e.g., SEZ resistance).

Global Movements: Transnational coalitions (e.g., World Social Forum).

Mnemonic

“SIS-LNG”

S: Social Movements

I: State Interaction

S: Alter-Globalisation Protests

L: Local Movements

N: National Movements

G: Global Movements

500-Word Answer with Keywords

Introduction

Global social movements reflect resistance against various impacts of globalization, ranging from economic exploitation to political marginalization. Defined as community mobilizations, these movements oppose the status quo and advocate for fundamental rights. Their actions, ranging from grassroots activism to transnational coordination, target economic inequality and environmental degradation.

Body

1. Social Movements and Resistance

Resist violations like displacement and loss of livelihood.

Demand access to basic human rights like shelter, land, and services.

Defined by political engagement with governments and elites.

2. State Interaction

Movements balance opposition to and dependence on the state.

Interaction with governments is strategic, aiming for institutional changes.

Politicized movements adopt innovative and radical tactics, sometimes breaking laws to achieve objectives.

3. Alter-Globalisation Protests

Began with the Seattle WTO protests (1999), targeting global economic policies.

Movements oppose organizations like the WTO, IMF, and World Bank.

Forums like the World Social Forum (Porto Alegre, 2001) mobilize transnational networks and influence policy discussions.

4. Levels of Resistance Movements

Local Movements: Focus on localized effects of globalization.

Plachimada Movement: Adivasi and Dalit-led effort against water exploitation by Coca-Cola in Kerala.

Koorachund Farmers: Resisted market penetration by Pepsi and Coca-Cola in Kozhikode.

National Movements: Engage in larger-scale organized protests.

Examples include Indian farmers’ resistance to Special Economic Zones (SEZs).

Global Movements: Counter globalization at international forums.

Examples: Protests at Seattle, Cancun, Genoa, and Davos.

5. Challenging Globalization from Below

Resistance emerges from individuals and small groups.

Examples:

Jose Bove in France opposed McDonald’s expansion.

Boycotts of global brands like Coca-Cola and Walmart.

Religious groups like the Taliban and ISIS resist globalization to uphold ideological purity, albeit controversially.

6. Global Movement Platforms

World Social Forum: Advocates for a fair globalization model under the banner of “Another World is Possible.”

Focus on creating global justice ideals, influencing domestic and international political systems.

Conclusion

Global social movements showcase a spectrum of resistance against globalization’s impacts. By engaging locally, nationally, and globally, they attempt to protect livelihoods, challenge unjust systems, and propose alternative governance models. Movements like the World Social Forum exemplify how resistance can be organized at multiple levels to achieve transformative societal and political goals. These movements continue to evolve, using innovative strategies and forums to address globalization’s ever-changing challenges.

Question 5

12.6 SOCIAL MOVEMENTS AND NGOS
1) What are the roles of NGOs in social movements?

Answer 5

Pointer Summary (Keywords)

Global Civil Society: NGOs transcend borders, promote democracy, transparency, accountability.

Key NGOs: Amnesty International, Greenpeace, Oxfam, Médecins Sans Frontières.

Role of NGOs: Advocacy, governance, fair trade campaigns, global governance (e.g., WTO).

Battle of Seattle (1999): Anti-globalization movement emergence.

NGOs vs. Social Movements:

NGOs: Structured, fixed priorities, mission-driven.

Social Movements: Ad hoc, fluid, reactive, member-dependent.

Social Movement Organizations (SMOs): Evolve from movements to structured entities.

NGOs in Global Economy: Policy influencers, create global governance networks, challenge state control.

NGOs-IGO Dynamics: Collaboration central to global governance.

500-Word Answer with Keywords

Introduction

The relationship between social movements (SMs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) has gained prominence in the era of globalization. NGOs, as part of global civil society, play a significant role in promoting democracy, transparency, and accountability, often serving as a counterbalance to market and state power. They contribute to advocacy, governance, and policy-making on issues such as fair trade, human rights, and environmental protection.

Body

1. NGOs and Global Civil Society

Organizations like Amnesty International, Greenpeace, and Médecins Sans Frontières operate transnationally.

They foster dialogue, disseminate information, and advocate for greater inclusiveness in governance.

NGOs are integral to global governance, offering alternative models to state-centric systems.

2. Battle of Seattle and NGO Engagement

The 1999 WTO protests marked the rise of the anti-globalization movement.

NGOs criticized global economic systems as exclusionary and environmentally destructive.

In response, institutions like the WTO began incorporating NGOs into policy discussions, aiming for democratic legitimacy in trade governance.

3. NGOs vs. Social Movements

NGOs:

Structured, mission-driven, fixed priorities.

Membership optional; not dependent on individuals for legitimacy.

Social Movements:

Ad hoc, fluid, and reactive.

Member-dependent, relying on active participation for legitimacy and mobilization.

Overlap: Social movements may evolve into Social Movement Organizations (SMOs), combining NGO-like structures with movement ideologies.

4. NGOs in Global Governance

NGOs influence global policy-making in collaboration with inter-governmental organizations (IGOs).

Examples: Advocacy networks addressing child labor, GM crops, and trade policies.

They challenge state sovereignty, ensuring the flow of information and forming transnational advocacy networks.

5. Challenges and Critiques

Critics argue that NGOs often lack the radicalism of social movements.

Some NGOs become institutionalized, distancing themselves from grassroots activism.

Despite this, NGOs remain critical actors in balancing market, state, and civil society interests.

6. Global Economy and NGO Influence

NGOs form networks that mediate relationships between business, government, and civil society.

Their involvement strengthens global governance systems by ensuring accountability and inclusiveness.

Conclusion

NGOs and social movements are central to global governance in a rapidly globalizing world. While their approaches and structures differ, both play vital roles in advocating for equity, human rights, and sustainability. NGOs’ ability to bridge gaps between local activism and global policy-making underscores their importance in fostering democratic accountability and addressing globalization’s challenges.