Globalization, Democratization and Political Violence
Find an article that illustrates concepts surrounding each of these ideas. Give the link, briefly describe the article and focus on explaining how and why your article illustrates each of these concepts.
http://m.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-26815027 This article is about the recent crackdown on corruption by Xi JinPing and the trials of a rich mafia leader. This shows how the Chinese government is trying to stop political violence by targeting the leadership of a company that has been known to use violence such as murder in order to further advance his political standing. He is one of the richest people in China so he has a strong influence in the Chinese economy; however, Xi Jinping is attempting to revolutionize how China is viewed in the world. He is trying to legitimize his position by showing that he can handle and control corruption in his country. In this attempt he is also freeing the people of some fear of these private businesses but that does not mean they are free of the fear from the government.
The article "Bank of Mexico’s Agustin Carstens: Mexico Positioned Well for Rise in U.S. Interest Rates" from the Wall Street Journal describes how Mexico believes it is going to be able to handle the expected increases in US interest rates, in contrast to other less-developed countries. The US dollar has a massive effect on the rest of the world, and the Fed has expressed in the past how it's concern for the US economy and not directly on the effect it has on the rest of the world--feeling that a strong US economy is the best thing other economies could hope for. This effect of the US economy is certainly a reflection of the extent of globalization. This change of interest rates is an example of political violence because it is a tool used to achieve a political goal, namely a strong US economy. Also, the further democratization around the world means a stronger connection to the US economy--the most dominant democratic economy.
http://en.itar-tass.com/russia/725929 Putin orders formation of Ministry for Crimean Affairs
Putin has now decreed that Russia will form a ministry for the oversight of Crimea, showing that Russia now considers Crimea as a full-fledged territory of the Russian Federation. The international communities backlash, including the exclusion of Russia from the G8 demonstrates the role of globalization in the world. Ukraine's failed democratic government and Crimeas vote to join Russia demonstrate a weak form of democratization, and the increased violence in both Kiev and Crimea show the growing role of political violence.
Link: http://en.itar-tass.com/russia/726033 Article Title: Russia refuses to attend UN Security Council’s informal meeting with pro-Kiev activists Just as the title says, Russia refuses to participate in an informal UN meeting because pro-Kiev activists are there. The Federation's mission states, “A get-together of this kind cannot a priori provide whatever unbiased information on the situation in Crimea, a constituent territory of the Russian Federation.” I believe that Russia is slowly pulling itself away from globalization. Because they refuse to join talks about the Ukraine and Crimea situations, violence will continue in those areas as well.
The article "New Rules to Reshape Telecom in Mexico" from the New York Times mentions the intention of breaking monopolies in Mexican telecommunications and promote effective competition to generally benefit the economy. In regards to president Enrique Pena Nieto who makes the effort to destroy such monopolies to remake the economy (reduce prices), a component of globalization in effect is particularly noticed. Although it is a bit of stretch, the alteration in conditions to monopolies like America Movil and Televisa could be influenced by the enforced conditions among other countries like the United States that in turn gain economic benefits. The change in telecommunications is also viewed as an attempt to regulate a use of such communications. This in general is a world view that is an element of globalization.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-26846272 The article, “Nigeria suicide attack 'kills 21' near Maiduguri” describes a recent bombing attack by the Boko Haram group. It explains how the militants attempted to send in vehicles filled with explosives into a checkpoint at a gas station. While unsuccessful in their attempt to destroy the checkpoint, the final vehicle was set off by one of the militants causing an explosion that killed several people. The article also explains how Boko Haram started in 2009, and that it has become more active recently. Since 2009, Boko Haram has been using political violence in order to try to create an Islamic state. By targeting those who do not support them, they hope to scare the rest of the population into giving in.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/iran/10706707/Iranian-woman-spared-stoning-for-adultery.html This article brings news of an Iranian woman previously convicted of adultery and sentenced to death in 2006 who, after speaking about her experience on an international stage, was granted leave and a shorter sentence. I chose this article because it demonstrates the role of a globalized media in one country's inner politics. With international news organizations and most especially the internet, personal stories like Mrs. Ashtiani's are easily spread and publicized. Without the intervention of other countries and civil rights groups on her behalf, Ashtiani probably would have been given her initial sentence. This type of influence by the media is an example of the effect that globalization can have on one state's control over its own society- Iran especially, as a theocracy under religious law, is beginning to be exposed to widespread Western culture as a result of the internet and a new generation of Iranians.
link: http://edition.cnn.com/2014/04/01/opinion/safina-japan-whaling/index.html?hpt=hp_c2 I chose this article because it shows the limitations of globalization in terms of enforcement of rules for individual countries. Although commercial whaling was made illegal by International Whaling Convention in the 1980s, Japanese whalers have still thrived as their government does not enforce the rules, and whalers use the guise of “scientific research.” This is one way that global homogeneity cannot overrule culture, since some countries maintain practices that grow more and more detached from the global norm. However, I think that Japan will have to follow international law, as international environmental agencies crack down, and the global community becomes more critical.
Iran has recently appointed a new U.N. ambassador to represent them in New York. While many of Rouhani's recent decisions have been praised for their moderate leanings, the U.S. is expressing many concerns about the new ambassador. There are apparent ties between the representative and the hostage crisis in 1979; many Americans are demanding the U.S. deny the new ambassador a visa for his work in New York. While Iran's participation in the U.N. shows the atmosphere of globalization and international cooperation, this case also shows how globalization can increase tensions between countries.
http://www.cnbc.com/id/46683675 This article describes the recent megatrend in economic globalization that has been occurring in Asia and explores the possible reasons for why that region in particular has had such tremendous success with globalization, including a larger trend in foreign investment in Asia. The article also discusses the pros and cons of globalization, with cons being a threat to national sovereignty and democracy. This article relates to globalization because it closely examines the characteristics that invite globalization in a region as well as the possible impact it may have.
http://www.atimes.com/atimes/China/CHIN-01-010414.html This article explores the reasons why China can grow and be prosperous without becoming democratic. It is reminiscent of the Eric Li Ted Talk and discusses how many outsiders speculate that China will democratize following its heavy economic globalization. However, the article cites that that is not necessary for China because the people have more trust in their political system than even some of their democratic neighbors. This article is relevant to the idea of democratization because it directly undermines the idea that eventually all countries will become democratic, and that democracy is the "finish line" in political evolution.
http://www.scmp.com/comment/article/1462482/taiwan-protests-view-mainland This article talks about the student protests that have been sparking up in Taiwan in regards to political liberalization. This relates to political violence because although non-violent protests do exist, political protests very frequently have the potential to result in violence as riots break out. When the people of a country are unhappy with the political standings, protests may occur and if they go too far, political violence may result.
my articlw was about the violence in egyp as the hold the vote of referendum to turn democratic and modify their constitution. this illustrates political globalization because there is a strong dislike beween the old and new, and the new want deomcracy and the old want the same regime. this is casuing violence becasue there is a strong distinction caused by the globalization and the powerful people sharing the idea that democracy is the best regardless of the county. they fail to look at the countrys characteristics to decide whats the best and just chose deomcracy. this is causing violece and without the globailzation and spread of democratic ideas would not be happening
This article took a look at the situation occurring in Crimea, and how the land used to be part of Russia, so to them it is no big deal that Russia takes it back. It focuses on East-West relations, and the sanctions begin placed on Russia goods and officials. Sanctions become the main focus of the article about midway through. This relates to globalization through Putin's complete disregard for it, as he is acting with regional interests despite the views of the global community. Democratization and Political violence are also shown in this article, as a supposedly democratic vote took place to have Crimea succeed from Ukraine but the legality and fairness of this vote has been called into question. Russia then took over Crimea by sending in military troops, and has many troops stationed on the border of Ukraine.
http://www.cnn.com/2014/04/01/world/europe/ukraine-crisis/index.html?hpt=wo_c1 Ukraine crisis: NATO suspends cooperation with Moscow
This article details the fact that NATO has decided to suspend "all practical civilian and military cooperation" with Russia because of its annexation of Crimea. This shows a growing East-West conflict, which rivals that of the Cold War in the mid 20th century. A separation from autocracy and a move towards democracy is being attempted; however, Moscow is not backing with its troops. A new update is that the US House is giving its final approval to sanction Russia and provide necessary aid to Ukraine. This can and most likely will create a contention between Eastern and Western powers as Russia is being targeted by a multitude of nations due to its actions with Ukraine. Globalization is occurring as NATO and the US is becoming involved with Russia's political dealings; furthermore, political violence may ensue as Russia refuses to withdraw troops from Ukraine.
In the article "500,000 rally at Taiwan's Presidential Office" there is a detailing of the student protests over the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement with China. The students protesting did not agree with the way the government was handling the agreement and instead of just the president deciding, they want there to be a “public constitutional meeting." The students say that they wouldn't mind interacting with china, that's not what the issue is about. “The demonstration today is not just about being against the service trade pact, it is a process in which people strengthen the value of democracy,” especially because the demonstration is led by the people. This was not the first of the protests surrounding the agreement; however, it was the largest rally. asianewsnet.net/500000-rally-at-Taiwans-Presidential-Office-58646.html
The article I read ( http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2012/02/the-two-indias-astounding-poverty-in-the-backyard-of-amazing-growth/253340/ ) describes the rapid development of India as a global power, and yet it still suffers from crippling poverty. The article does well to describe India's increasing globalization, talking Indian businessmen's acquisition of well respected companies, and the constant trade flux present in their economy as they attempt to balance imports and exports. The article also portrays India's government as like a feudal system. It is interesting to see it compared that way, as it truly appears to happen, with the officials exploiting the labor of their specific jurisdiction for great wealth and power. Lastly, the article hints at the possibility of political violence, as the population of India slowly begins to discover what its government is doing through increasing education.
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-26841740 In this article the European Union and the African Union will be joining forces at at a smmit to discuss how to solve the political violence in Central African Repiublic (CAR) between the Christians and the Muslims, which has been going on for over a year. The EU has decided to send 1,000 troops into CAR to fight the Muslim rebels. The article says that the already stationed French troops and the AU are trying to restore stability to the country. Before this article, I did not know that the African Union existed, but not that I have a better understanding of it I know that I cannot equate the AU to the EU even though they are getting involved in the same conflict at this time. The AU is more of a socioculutral intergovernmental organization and does not foster glabalization in Africa as much as the economic-based EU does in Europe, since the euro unites tose countiries, and 'divided' economically the African countries fall. The planning between the two organizations, however, is an example of glabalization since these two continents are unitedly trying to find a solution to the violence in CAR. Also, in a way the EU is fostering the perpspective of more coopertation between Africa and Europe.
http://www.cnn.com/2014/03/31/politics/crimea-explainer/ This article titled, “Is Crimea Gone?” describes the recent annexation of Crimea by Russia and more importantly the recent shift in diplomatic focus towards defusing the threat of violence and eventually instituting free and fair elections in Ukraine rather than reversing the reality of the annexation of Crimea. The change in the diplomatic approach being adopted I think is representative of the globalization trends. Previously, in a bipolar world, drastic steps were often considered legitimate in and necessary in an “us vs. them” type of mentality where the superpowers constantly competed in a quest for world domination. However, the world is obviously different now mainly due to globalization. Now, countries must embrace the interconnectedness between the international powers and avoid taking any actions that may damage international relationships as this would threaten their own survival. This trend is evident in the way in which the issue in Crimea is being handled by most countries such as the United States which are carefully pursuing diplomacy rather than resorting to military action in order to preserve stability. Now, as the article mentions, they are even trying to avoid the issue in Crimea completely to instead focus on the more Western-leaning Ukraine’s problems. Nonetheless, some countries like Russia seem to be oblivious to the globalization trends as they initiate the violence. Also, the conditions of the negotiation demonstrate a move toward democratization. However, the fact that limiting violence is also a condition suggests that before democracy can be effectively implemented, political violence must be eliminated.
http://www.independent.ie/world-news/africa/islamist-suicide-bombers-kill-15-in-oil-field-attack-in-nigeria-30148904.html This article essentially talks about how religious differences in Nigeria had led to widespread terrorist attacks on civilians, along with the risking of Nigeria's most valuable export: oil. In the article, Islamic terrorists planted several bombs, and caused 15 casualties to occur over longheld religious differences, and foreign interests in oil. The casualties and bombings are significant in that they represent a chasm between domestic interests in Nigeria, and its power as a global exporter of oil. Obviously, foreign interaction, or globalization has caused tensions to rise that were already present in the country because of varying factions in religion and class struggle. In terms of political violence, the terrorists are using bombings to coerce people into fearing them, and following their ideals. This violence is getting out of control. The article doesn't really mention democratization, but because of the severity of terrorist forces in the country, and the poverty in Nigeria, the prospects of democracy and liberty are slim. The repressive nature of these attacks I think speaks to this, as the victims are left hopeless until police forces or mediation is presented.
http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/china-news/political-violence-hit-son-of-chinese-anti-corruption-official-276189.html This article was about the son of the former head of the Chinese Communist Party’s anti-corruption bureau was assassinated in January 2007. Wiki leaks released this in 2011. The murdering of this son was to serve as a warning to the anti-corruption department. Calling out corrupt leaders has risen recently, but wrongful labeling as corrupt can be extremely bad so they must be careful.
http://www.borgenmagazine.com/globalization-in-mexico-part-1-economic-and-social-effects/ This article talks about the effects of globalization on Mexico. It shows both the positive and negative effects of globalization. It illustrates globalization because it talks about Mexico becoming a part of NAFTA. It also shows that this hurts democratization because it is creating an inequality in wealth. It also implies political violence because it talks about how policies involving globalization are hurting certain states and groups of people in Mexico.
This article shows the effect of globalization in the form of England's currency system to Scotland's currency system. Scotlands system of the Euro has become extremely depreciated in comparison to how England's pound becoming very strong. This has caused Carney to come under scrutiny because Scotland's interest rates have stayed the same. While England's have raised disproportionately. This is something that should not happen since the pound is stronger. Carney blames the raise in interest rates on the recovery of the English economy but the people blame it on the fact that he is a supporter of the Euro therefore political violence will insue. This is on par with democratization because the elections for Carney's position are coming up soon and he is desperately trying to hold on to his position and sway public opinion in his favor.
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ReplyDeletehttp://m.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-26815027 This article is about the recent crackdown on corruption by Xi JinPing and the trials of a rich mafia leader. This shows how the Chinese government is trying to stop political violence by targeting the leadership of a company that has been known to use violence such as murder in order to further advance his political standing. He is one of the richest people in China so he has a strong influence in the Chinese economy; however, Xi Jinping is attempting to revolutionize how China is viewed in the world. He is trying to legitimize his position by showing that he can handle and control corruption in his country. In this attempt he is also freeing the people of some fear of these private businesses but that does not mean they are free of the fear from the government.
ReplyDeleteThe article "Bank of Mexico’s Agustin Carstens: Mexico Positioned Well for Rise in U.S. Interest Rates" from the Wall Street Journal describes how Mexico believes it is going to be able to handle the expected increases in US interest rates, in contrast to other less-developed countries. The US dollar has a massive effect on the rest of the world, and the Fed has expressed in the past how it's concern for the US economy and not directly on the effect it has on the rest of the world--feeling that a strong US economy is the best thing other economies could hope for. This effect of the US economy is certainly a reflection of the extent of globalization. This change of interest rates is an example of political violence because it is a tool used to achieve a political goal, namely a strong US economy. Also, the further democratization around the world means a stronger connection to the US economy--the most dominant democratic economy.
ReplyDeletehttp://en.itar-tass.com/russia/725929
ReplyDeletePutin orders formation of Ministry for Crimean Affairs
Putin has now decreed that Russia will form a ministry for the oversight of Crimea, showing that Russia now considers Crimea as a full-fledged territory of the Russian Federation. The international communities backlash, including the exclusion of Russia from the G8 demonstrates the role of globalization in the world. Ukraine's failed democratic government and Crimeas vote to join Russia demonstrate a weak form of democratization, and the increased violence in both Kiev and Crimea show the growing role of political violence.
Link: http://en.itar-tass.com/russia/726033
ReplyDeleteArticle Title: Russia refuses to attend UN Security Council’s informal meeting with pro-Kiev activists
Just as the title says, Russia refuses to participate in an informal UN meeting because pro-Kiev activists are there. The Federation's mission states, “A get-together of this kind cannot a priori provide whatever unbiased information on the situation in Crimea, a constituent territory of the Russian Federation.” I believe that Russia is slowly pulling itself away from globalization. Because they refuse to join talks about the Ukraine and Crimea situations, violence will continue in those areas as well.
Link: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/08/business/international/new-rules-to-reshape-telecom-in-mexico.html?ref=mexico
ReplyDeleteThe article "New Rules to Reshape Telecom in Mexico" from the New York Times mentions the intention of breaking monopolies in Mexican telecommunications and promote effective competition to generally benefit the economy. In regards to president Enrique Pena Nieto who makes the effort to destroy such monopolies to remake the economy (reduce prices), a component of globalization in effect is particularly noticed. Although it is a bit of stretch, the alteration in conditions to monopolies like America Movil and Televisa could be influenced by the enforced conditions among other countries like the United States that in turn gain economic benefits. The change in telecommunications is also viewed as an attempt to regulate a use of such communications. This in general is a world view that is an element of globalization.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-26846272
ReplyDeleteThe article, “Nigeria suicide attack 'kills 21' near Maiduguri” describes a recent bombing attack by the Boko Haram group. It explains how the militants attempted to send in vehicles filled with explosives into a checkpoint at a gas station. While unsuccessful in their attempt to destroy the checkpoint, the final vehicle was set off by one of the militants causing an explosion that killed several people. The article also explains how Boko Haram started in 2009, and that it has become more active recently. Since 2009, Boko Haram has been using political violence in order to try to create an Islamic state. By targeting those who do not support them, they hope to scare the rest of the population into giving in.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/iran/10706707/Iranian-woman-spared-stoning-for-adultery.html
ReplyDeleteThis article brings news of an Iranian woman previously convicted of adultery and sentenced to death in 2006 who, after speaking about her experience on an international stage, was granted leave and a shorter sentence. I chose this article because it demonstrates the role of a globalized media in one country's inner politics. With international news organizations and most especially the internet, personal stories like Mrs. Ashtiani's are easily spread and publicized. Without the intervention of other countries and civil rights groups on her behalf, Ashtiani probably would have been given her initial sentence. This type of influence by the media is an example of the effect that globalization can have on one state's control over its own society- Iran especially, as a theocracy under religious law, is beginning to be exposed to widespread Western culture as a result of the internet and a new generation of Iranians.
link: http://edition.cnn.com/2014/04/01/opinion/safina-japan-whaling/index.html?hpt=hp_c2
ReplyDeleteI chose this article because it shows the limitations of globalization in terms of enforcement of rules for individual countries. Although commercial whaling was made illegal by International Whaling Convention in the 1980s, Japanese whalers have still thrived as their government does not enforce the rules, and whalers use the guise of “scientific research.” This is one way that global homogeneity cannot overrule culture, since some countries maintain practices that grow more and more detached from the global norm. However, I think that Japan will have to follow international law, as international environmental agencies crack down, and the global community becomes more critical.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/03/30/us-iran-un-envoy-idUSBREA2T01N20140330
ReplyDeleteIran has recently appointed a new U.N. ambassador to represent them in New York. While many of Rouhani's recent decisions have been praised for their moderate leanings, the U.S. is expressing many concerns about the new ambassador. There are apparent ties between the representative and the hostage crisis in 1979; many Americans are demanding the U.S. deny the new ambassador a visa for his work in New York. While Iran's participation in the U.N. shows the atmosphere of globalization and international cooperation, this case also shows how globalization can increase tensions between countries.
http://www.cnbc.com/id/46683675
ReplyDeleteThis article describes the recent megatrend in economic globalization that has been occurring in Asia and explores the possible reasons for why that region in particular has had such tremendous success with globalization, including a larger trend in foreign investment in Asia. The article also discusses the pros and cons of globalization, with cons being a threat to national sovereignty and democracy. This article relates to globalization because it closely examines the characteristics that invite globalization in a region as well as the possible impact it may have.
http://www.atimes.com/atimes/China/CHIN-01-010414.html
ReplyDeleteThis article explores the reasons why China can grow and be prosperous without becoming democratic. It is reminiscent of the Eric Li Ted Talk and discusses how many outsiders speculate that China will democratize following its heavy economic globalization. However, the article cites that that is not necessary for China because the people have more trust in their political system than even some of their democratic neighbors. This article is relevant to the idea of democratization because it directly undermines the idea that eventually all countries will become democratic, and that democracy is the "finish line" in political evolution.
http://www.scmp.com/comment/article/1462482/taiwan-protests-view-mainland
ReplyDeleteThis article talks about the student protests that have been sparking up in Taiwan in regards to political liberalization. This relates to political violence because although non-violent protests do exist, political protests very frequently have the potential to result in violence as riots break out. When the people of a country are unhappy with the political standings, protests may occur and if they go too far, political violence may result.
http://www.cnn.com/2014/01/14/world/africa/egypt-referendum/index.html
ReplyDeletemy articlw was about the violence in egyp as the hold the vote of referendum to turn democratic and modify their constitution. this illustrates political globalization because there is a strong dislike beween the old and new, and the new want deomcracy and the old want the same regime. this is casuing violence becasue there is a strong distinction caused by the globalization and the powerful people sharing the idea that democracy is the best regardless of the county. they fail to look at the countrys characteristics to decide whats the best and just chose deomcracy. this is causing violece and without the globailzation and spread of democratic ideas would not be happening
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/18/world/europe/us-imposes-new-sanctions-on-russian-officials.html?_r=0
ReplyDeleteThis article took a look at the situation occurring in Crimea, and how the land used to be part of Russia, so to them it is no big deal that Russia takes it back. It focuses on East-West relations, and the sanctions begin placed on Russia goods and officials. Sanctions become the main focus of the article about midway through. This relates to globalization through Putin's complete disregard for it, as he is acting with regional interests despite the views of the global community. Democratization and Political violence are also shown in this article, as a supposedly democratic vote took place to have Crimea succeed from Ukraine but the legality and fairness of this vote has been called into question. Russia then took over Crimea by sending in military troops, and has many troops stationed on the border of Ukraine.
http://www.cnn.com/2014/04/01/world/europe/ukraine-crisis/index.html?hpt=wo_c1
ReplyDeleteUkraine crisis: NATO suspends cooperation with Moscow
This article details the fact that NATO has decided to suspend "all practical civilian and military cooperation" with Russia because of its annexation of Crimea. This shows a growing East-West conflict, which rivals that of the Cold War in the mid 20th century. A separation from autocracy and a move towards democracy is being attempted; however, Moscow is not backing with its troops. A new update is that the US House is giving its final approval to sanction Russia and provide necessary aid to Ukraine. This can and most likely will create a contention between Eastern and Western powers as Russia is being targeted by a multitude of nations due to its actions with Ukraine. Globalization is occurring as NATO and the US is becoming involved with Russia's political dealings; furthermore, political violence may ensue as Russia refuses to withdraw troops from Ukraine.
In the article "500,000 rally at Taiwan's Presidential Office" there is a detailing of the student protests over the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement with China. The students protesting did not agree with the way the government was handling the agreement and instead of just the president deciding, they want there to be a “public constitutional meeting." The students say that they wouldn't mind interacting with china, that's not what the issue is about. “The demonstration today is not just about being against the service trade pact, it is a process in which people strengthen the value of democracy,” especially because the demonstration is led by the people. This was not the first of the protests surrounding the agreement; however, it was the largest rally.
ReplyDeleteasianewsnet.net/500000-rally-at-Taiwans-Presidential-Office-58646.html
The article I read ( http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2012/02/the-two-indias-astounding-poverty-in-the-backyard-of-amazing-growth/253340/ ) describes the rapid development of India as a global power, and yet it still suffers from crippling poverty. The article does well to describe India's increasing globalization, talking Indian businessmen's acquisition of well respected companies, and the constant trade flux present in their economy as they attempt to balance imports and exports. The article also portrays India's government as like a feudal system. It is interesting to see it compared that way, as it truly appears to happen, with the officials exploiting the labor of their specific jurisdiction for great wealth and power. Lastly, the article hints at the possibility of political violence, as the population of India slowly begins to discover what its government is doing through increasing education.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-26841740
ReplyDeleteIn this article the European Union and the African Union will be joining forces at at a smmit to discuss how to solve the political violence in Central African Repiublic (CAR) between the Christians and the Muslims, which has been going on for over a year. The EU has decided to send 1,000 troops into CAR to fight the Muslim rebels. The article says that the already stationed French troops and the AU are trying to restore stability to the country. Before this article, I did not know that the African Union existed, but not that I have a better understanding of it I know that I cannot equate the AU to the EU even though they are getting involved in the same conflict at this time. The AU is more of a socioculutral intergovernmental organization and does not foster glabalization in Africa as much as the economic-based EU does in Europe, since the euro unites tose countiries, and 'divided' economically the African countries fall. The planning between the two organizations, however, is an example of glabalization since these two continents are unitedly trying to find a solution to the violence in CAR. Also, in a way the EU is fostering the perpspective of more coopertation between Africa and Europe.
http://www.cnn.com/2014/03/31/politics/crimea-explainer/
ReplyDeleteThis article titled, “Is Crimea Gone?” describes the recent annexation of Crimea by Russia and more importantly the recent shift in diplomatic focus towards defusing the threat of violence and eventually instituting free and fair elections in Ukraine rather than reversing the reality of the annexation of Crimea. The change in the diplomatic approach being adopted I think is representative of the globalization trends. Previously, in a bipolar world, drastic steps were often considered legitimate in and necessary in an “us vs. them” type of mentality where the superpowers constantly competed in a quest for world domination. However, the world is obviously different now mainly due to globalization. Now, countries must embrace the interconnectedness between the international powers and avoid taking any actions that may damage international relationships as this would threaten their own survival. This trend is evident in the way in which the issue in Crimea is being handled by most countries such as the United States which are carefully pursuing diplomacy rather than resorting to military action in order to preserve stability. Now, as the article mentions, they are even trying to avoid the issue in Crimea completely to instead focus on the more Western-leaning Ukraine’s problems. Nonetheless, some countries like Russia seem to be oblivious to the globalization trends as they initiate the violence. Also, the conditions of the negotiation demonstrate a move toward democratization. However, the fact that limiting violence is also a condition suggests that before democracy can be effectively implemented, political violence must be eliminated.
http://www.independent.ie/world-news/africa/islamist-suicide-bombers-kill-15-in-oil-field-attack-in-nigeria-30148904.html
ReplyDeleteThis article essentially talks about how religious differences in Nigeria had led to widespread terrorist attacks on civilians, along with the risking of Nigeria's most valuable export: oil. In the article, Islamic terrorists planted several bombs, and caused 15 casualties to occur over longheld religious differences, and foreign interests in oil. The casualties and bombings are significant in that they represent a chasm between domestic interests in Nigeria, and its power as a global exporter of oil. Obviously, foreign interaction, or globalization has caused tensions to rise that were already present in the country because of varying factions in religion and class struggle. In terms of political violence, the terrorists are using bombings to coerce people into fearing them, and following their ideals. This violence is getting out of control. The article doesn't really mention democratization, but because of the severity of terrorist forces in the country, and the poverty in Nigeria, the prospects of democracy and liberty are slim. The repressive nature of these attacks I think speaks to this, as the victims are left hopeless until police forces or mediation is presented.
http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/china-news/political-violence-hit-son-of-chinese-anti-corruption-official-276189.html
ReplyDeleteThis article was about the son of the former head of the Chinese Communist Party’s anti-corruption bureau was assassinated in January 2007. Wiki leaks released this in 2011. The murdering of this son was to serve as a warning to the anti-corruption department. Calling out corrupt leaders has risen recently, but wrongful labeling as corrupt can be extremely bad so they must be careful.
http://www.borgenmagazine.com/globalization-in-mexico-part-1-economic-and-social-effects/
ReplyDeleteThis article talks about the effects of globalization on Mexico. It shows both the positive and negative effects of globalization. It illustrates globalization because it talks about Mexico becoming a part of NAFTA. It also shows that this hurts democratization because it is creating an inequality in wealth. It also implies political violence because it talks about how policies involving globalization are hurting certain states and groups of people in Mexico.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/bank-of-england/10742248/Mark-Carney-says-rate-rise-could-happen-before-election.html
ReplyDeleteThis article shows the effect of globalization in the form of England's currency system to Scotland's currency system. Scotlands system of the Euro has become extremely depreciated in comparison to how England's pound becoming very strong. This has caused Carney to come under scrutiny because Scotland's interest rates have stayed the same. While England's have raised disproportionately. This is something that should not happen since the pound is stronger. Carney blames the raise in interest rates on the recovery of the English economy but the people blame it on the fact that he is a supporter of the Euro therefore political violence will insue. This is on par with democratization because the elections for Carney's position are coming up soon and he is desperately trying to hold on to his position and sway public opinion in his favor.