How new is globalization

Globalization, as we know it today, is a relatively recent phenomenon. While international trade and cultural exchange have been occurring for centuries, the modern concept of globalization as a globalized economy, society, and culture is a product of the late 20th century.

Here are some key milestones that mark the evolution of globalization:

1. Post-WWII era (1945-1970s): The Bretton Woods system, established in 1944, created a framework for international trade and finance. The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) was signed in 1947, aiming to reduce trade barriers. This period saw the rise of multinational corporations (MNCs) and the growth of international trade.
2. 1970s-1980s: The oil price shocks of the 1970s and the subsequent debt crisis led to a shift towards globalization. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan began to industrialize and export goods, while the United States and Europe became major trading partners.
3. 1980s-1990s: The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 marked the end of the Cold War and the beginning of a new era of globalization. The World Trade Organization (WTO) was established in 1995, replacing GATT. This period saw the rapid growth of international trade, investment, and the emergence of new economic powers like China and India.
4. 1990s-2000s: The rise of the internet and digital technologies accelerated globalization. E-commerce, outsourcing, and offshoring became more common, and the global supply chain became more complex.
5. 2000s-present: The 2008 global financial crisis led to a re-evaluation of globalization, with some countries implementing protectionist policies. However, globalization has continued to evolve, with the growth of emerging markets, the rise of e-commerce, and the increasing importance of services in international trade.

Some key statistics that illustrate the pace of globalization:

• International trade as a percentage of global GDP: 22% in 1990, 60% in 2019 (World Bank)
• Global foreign direct investment (FDI): $100 billion in 1990, $1.7 trillion in 2019 (UNCTAD)
• Number of international migrants: 154 million in 1990, 272 million in 2020 (UN)
• Internet users: 1% of the global population in 1990, 60% in 2020 (ITU)

While globalization is not a new phenomenon, its current form and pace are unprecedented. The rapid growth of international trade, investment, and communication has created a more interconnected world, with both benefits and challenges.