GLOBALISATION UNDERMINED NATIONAL SOV

Question 1

1)HOW HAS GLOBALISATION MADE STATES INTERDEPENDENT-

Answer 1

FOR-Global Issues Force Cooperation and Undermine Unilateral Action

Hyperglobalisers argue that globalisation reshapes the world into an interdependent system, where cooperation is essential.
Transnational challenges like climate change (Paris Agreement) and the COVID-19 pandemic showed the need for global coordination.
Similarly, financial crises (2008) required IMF and G20 cooperation. This pressures states to surrender aspects of sovereignty to bodies like WHO and the UN.
Liberals argue this fosters peace and prosperity by reducing incentives for conflict.

Against: States Still Have Internal Sovereignty
Sceptics argue states still control key functions: Australia’s Operation Sovereign Borders shows control over immigration, and Canada’s USMCA renegotiation protected its dairy industry.
Realists claim IGOs lack power to force compliance; states still pursue self-interest.
Judgement: Globalisation constrains unilateral action but doesn’t erase sovereignty — powerful states retain substantial autonomy.

Question 2

2) IMPACT ECONOMIC GLOBAL SOV-

Answer 2

FOR: Globalisation Limits State Economic Control
The rise of MNCs like Apple and Amazon allows corporations to influence domestic policy — e.g. Apple’s favourable tax deal in Ireland (effective rate as low as 0.005%).
States rely heavily on global markets — the 2008 financial crisis showed how interconnectedness undermines economic sovereignty.
IMF and World Bank often tie loans to free-market reforms, especially in weaker states, reducing their autonomy.

Against: States Retain Economic Tools
Some states actively protect key sectors: China controls tech and SOEs while benefiting from global trade; the US used tariffs in the US-China trade war.
Other examples include Japan and India’s agricultural subsidies.
Transformationalists argue globalisation affects states unevenly — powerful states adapt and thrive while weaker ones lose control.

Judgement: Economic globalisation undermines most states’ sovereignty, though powerful states can shield parts of their economy.

Question 3

3) IMPACT OF POLITICAL GLOBALISATION

Answer 3

FOR - Political Globalisation Constrains States
International frameworks limit sovereignty through binding rules (trade, human rights, conflict resolution).
Weaker states face enforcement: e.g. Greece fined €425m by the EU, and Libya intervention (2011) saw the UN override sovereignty to protect civilians.
Liberals argue this erosion of sovereignty is vital to uphold global norms.

Against: States Choose Participation & Can Opt Out
States voluntarily join IGOs and can leave — e.g. Brexit or refusal to ratify the ICC by the US, China, and Russia.
Powerful states also ignore rulings: China rejected the 2016 South China Sea ruling.
Realists argue IGOs serve the interests of powerful states, not genuine global cooperation.
US lobbying for TRIPS protected its industries, showing how global rules often reflect rich countries’ interests.

Judgement: Political globalisation undermines weaker states’ sovereignty but powerful states largely retain autonomy.