The erosion of the liberal international order, due to inadequate domestic support and protections, created a political space for far-left and far-right parties to gain traction and promote economic nationalism.
The rise of anti-globalism and nationalism in the West is influenced by factors such as job losses due to automation, fears about immigration, and the failure of Western governments to balance globalization with domestic economic security.
Deep dives
The Rise of Anti-Globalism in Western Countries
The rise of anti-globalism in Western countries can be traced back to the erosion of the liberal international order. The order was built on domestic institutional arrangements that supported policies like free trade and multilateralism. During the Cold War, the competition between the Soviet Union and the United States reinforced the authority of centrist parties in Western democracies. Additionally, the development of the social welfare state provided economic security and support for international trade. However, with the end of the Cold War and the rise of globalization, domestic support and protections were not adequately addressed. This created a political space for far-left and far-right parties to gain traction, promoting economic nationalism and exploiting concerns about immigration.
Multiple Factors Contributing to Anti-Globalization Sentiment
The rise of anti-globalism and nationalism in the West is influenced by multiple factors. Automation and technological innovation have contributed to job losses and economic insecurity. Immigration has become a hot-button issue, with far-right parties exploiting fears and falsely associating it with job losses. While trade and globalization are part of the story, it is essential to recognize the failure of Western governments to keep pace with the commitment to both globalization and domestic economic security. These factors, combined with frustrations about perceived sovereignty costs and elite capture, have fueled anti-globalization sentiment.
The Need to Reimagine the Liberal International Order
Restoring and strengthening the liberal international order requires a reimagining of the relationship between foreign and domestic policies. Reconnecting policies in the international realm with tangible benefits for working families is crucial. This includes addressing spatial inequities and ensuring economic security and inclusiveness. It is important to strike a balance between international openness and safeguarding domestic interests, avoiding over-correction or a race to the bottom. Furthermore, garnering buy-in from countries in the global south, such as India and Nigeria, is necessary. However, competition with China adds complexity to the effort, as these countries can forum shop between great powers. Overcoming the challenges and renewing international engagement requires innovative thinking and a renewed commitment to inclusive growth at home.
Peter Trubowitz, a professor of international relations and director of the Phelan U.S. Center at the London School of Economics and an associate fellow at Chatham House, sits down with James M. Lindsay to discuss the reasons for the rise of anti-globalism in Western countries and its consequences for world order.
