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Theories of Development and Globalization
Name of Theory According to This Theory…
Modernization – Cultural Version
Emphasizes that traditional cultural values hinder societal progress, whereas modern social values, such as individualism and secularism, promote it.
Modernization – Economic Version
Argues that the primary barrier to development is the lack of savings and investment, necessitating both domestic and international investment to spur economic growth.
Liberal (Free-Market) Economics
Provides that excessive government regulation stifles economic activity, advocating for the establishment of private property rights and a free enterprise system as tools to achieve growth.
Neo-institutionalism
Points to extractive institutions, which limit economic opportunities and lead to inequality; inclusive institutions and a commitment to the rule of law are seen as key to enabling equitable economic development.
Economic Nationalism
Critiques international capital and local structural rigidities as barriers, suggesting national policies that counteract international capital flows and promote local growth and industries.
Dependency/ World Systems
Identifies international capitalism or the global system as the main impediment to development; recommends strategies such as socialist revolution or de-linking from the global economy to foster self-sufficiency.
Marxism
Focuses on inequality derived from capitalist accumulation and crisis, proposing a transition to socialism as a means to rectify these injustices, although capitalism is acknowledged as beneficial up to a certain threshold.
Structuralist/ Heterodox Economics
Attributes poor development outcomes to unfavourable policies and a detrimental international context, advocating for pragmatic public policies at both national and international levels to rectify these issues.
Human Development and Capabilities
Highlights insufficient investment in crucial areas like health, education, and gender equality; suggests that improvements in these sectors can enhance human agency and overall development.
Post-modernism
Challenges the very concept of development, arguing that it is a myth and questioning its validity as a goal.
Feminism
Addresses issues of patriarchy and misogyny, advocating for gender equality as a fundamental aspect of genuine development.
Subaltern Studies
Explores the power dynamics at play, arguing that unequal power relations must be acknowledged and addressed by empowering marginalized groups, especially the poor and weak.
Post-colonialism
Critiques development as a colonial myth sustained by neo-colonial practices, advocating for the dismantling of these power imbalances.
Mainstream Environmentalism
Points to the lack of sustainable practices as detrimental to both development and the environment, suggesting a need for sustainable lifestyles and environmentally friendly policies and technologies.
Radical Environmentalism
Contends that development itself is the core problem, urging a fundamental reassessment of what development means and how it impacts the planet.
Our Analytical Focus Should Be On
Economic Growth
Focus on changing traditional cultures and advancing modern values to facilitate growth.
Acknowledges that economic growth is desirable and can be promoted through modern societal values.
Capital formation
Emphasizes the importance of both public and private investment as the cornerstone of development strategies.
Ensuring the free functioning of the market economy
Advocates for minimal government intervention in markets, promoting the idea that markets ideally should operate freely unless necessary.
Institutional change
Suggests building institutions that promote socio-economic growth as an important strategy for development.
How the national economy is structured by local and international forces
Important to consider the role of active regulation in promoting national interest, with a focus on local development.
How global capitalism has created under-development
Advocates for socialist economic planning and de-linking from the global economy as strategies for promoting national development.
The material basis of society, patterns of accumulation
Recommends socialist revolution or a peaceful transition to socialism, followed either by central economic planning or capitalism up to a certain threshold.
Finding where markets do and do not work, and why
Encourages the correction of market failures while prioritizing human development over mere economic growth.
Finding ways to help individuals realize their full set of capabilities and so be free
Advocates that development should center around people and their potential, argue for a view where human development surpasses mere economic metrics.
Understanding the many forms of domination
Recognizes the state and market as spheres of domination, suggesting that economic growth can sometimes perpetuate social injustices.
Gendered social relations and how they interact with other forms of oppression
Calls for promoting gender equality as essential while considering who benefits from growth.
How subalterns resist oppression
Investigates the role of the state in perpetuating unequal power relations and emphasizes the importance of equitable benefit distribution.
Studying how colonial power relations persist and how they can be resisted
Focuses on the critical evaluation of policy choices and their implications on power dynamics.
Humans as part of the biophysical environment
Advocates for sustainable lifestyles and technologies, recognizing past methods of growth as detrimental to environmental health.
Active regulation of the economy in the interest of the environment
Calls for comprehensive state-led initiatives to counteract consumer culture and the dominance of corporate power, linking economic practices to environmental sustainability.
Chapter 2: Key Points from Chapter 2 on International Development:
World-Systems Theory and Development: This theory centers sociology on international development by analyzing the imperialistic characteristics of the global system, which has roots in capitalism from five hundred years ago. It now differentiates between the global north-south division rather than just core-periphery.
Dependency Theory Versions: Dependency theory is comprehensive, including variations like the Dependency Theory by Cardoso and Frank, the World-Systems Theory by Wallerstein, the Dynamic Dependency Theory by Thomas Gold, and the Regularization Theory influenced by Antonio Gramsci.
1980s Development Perspectives: Four prevailing views emerged: liberal mainstream (growth-focused), basic needs model, human development model, and Dependency/World-Systems Theories. Economic stagnation in the West led to liberal economists advocating for free-market reforms, culminating in neoliberal approaches under leaders like Thatcher and Reagan.
Washington Consensus: John Williamson identified key policy prescriptions aimed at resolving economic crises in Latin America, stressing fiscal discipline, trade liberalization, privatization, and deregulation. The Washington Consensus has been criticized for potentially stunting growth in poorer nations.
Post-Washington Consensus: Critics, including Joseph Stiglitz, argue for a more equitable and adaptive framework that integrates the historical experiences of countries while balancing market and government roles.
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs): Adopted in 2000, these goals aimed to eradicate extreme poverty and improve living standards globally, yet faced criticism for not sufficiently addressing human rights and market roles. They concluded in 2015 with mixed success in achieving targets.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Following the Rio+20 summit, 17 SDGs were adopted in 2015, focusing on both people and the planet. They seek to eliminate poverty comprehensively while emphasizing sustainability, health, education, and gender equality.
chap 3
Key Points of Globalization
Definition and Context of Globalization:
Globalization has been a debated term since the 1980s.
Discussions revolve around whether it is a new phenomenon or a continuation of historical processes that began with trade 500 years ago.
The nuances behind regional versus global phenomena are also critically examined.
Multiple Perspectives on Globalization:
Conceptualizations of globalization depend on the sociological, economic, and political lenses adopted by different scholars.
Globalization is not one straightforward process but a complex interplay of interconnected factors.
Appadurai's Scapes of Globalization:
Globalization should be viewed across five dimensions or “scapes”:
Ethnoscapes: Mobility of people and their impacts (e.g., migration patterns, demographic changes).
Technoscapes: The movement and exchange of technology, elucidating disparities between nations in terms of technological advancement.
Financescapes: Flow of capital; how financial transactions affect global wealth, crises, and income disparities.
Mediascapes: Distribution and influence of media in shaping global perceptions and narratives, despite inequalities in access.
Ideoscapes: The flow of political ideologies across borders and their impact on domestic policies and societal values.
Models of Globalization Perspectives:
Dobuzinski's Three Worlds of Globalization:
World I: Advocates for unregulated markets that benefit everyone; sees globalization as primarily positive.
World II: Acknowledges globalization’s complexities and inevitabilities but emphasizes the adaptative role of governments.
World III: Critiques globalization as a tool of power dynamics that perpetuates inequality, with voices from both political left and right.
Globalization and the Political Economy:
Hoogvelt links globalization views to international relations theories: realism (importance of nation-states), institutionalism (cooperative relations), and structuralism (class-based perspectives on power dynamics).
These theories shape an understanding of how globalization manifests and the uneven power relations within it.
Neoliberalism's Role:
Neoliberalism dominates contemporary globalization discourse, promoting market-driven policies based on the Washington Consensus since the 1980s.
The uncertainty surrounding neoliberalism raises critical questions about its impacts on global development, capital distribution, and national sovereignty.
Globalization’s Variability:
National adaptation to neoliberal pressures can vary based on political, cultural, and social contexts.
Factors influencing resistance to neoliberal globalization include leftist governance, labour organization strength, and cultural solidarity.
Understanding how developing nations navigate these pressures provides insight into their unique paths toward growth and development, paralleling the historical trajectories of developed countries.
chap 10
Key Points on Indigenous Societies and Economic Structures
Cahokia:
One of the largest pre-contact cities in the world, located along the Mississippi River near St. Louis, Missouri.
United States ancient capital of the Mississippian nation with a five-square-mile downtown area.
In 1000 CE, it was larger than London, England, showcasing the size and significance of Indigenous cities before European contact.
Socio-economic Structure:
Cahokia's economy was based on artistic production and advanced agricultural practices, especially maize cultivation.
The Mississippian society had a well-established system of governance that included laws and a justice system, indicating a high degree of political organization.
Fortified Towns and Social Cohesion:
Major towns like Cahokia, Moundville, and Angel acted as central meeting places for surrounding rural populations, providing social and spiritual activities, arbitration for disputes, and safety during conflicts.
These social structures indicate a complex societal organization that fosters community solidarity and cooperation.
Colonial Narrative and Exclusion:
Historical accounts fail to recognize the structure and significance of Indigenous nations, a result of systemic exclusion from education and historical narratives.
The existence of advanced Indigenous societies challenges colonial justifications for domination and appropriation of lands, including ideologies like the Doctrine of Discovery and European superiority myths.
Colonial Impact:
Colonization involved the destruction of Indigenous cultures, economies, and social structures, resulting in long-lasting consequences for Indigenous peoples in Canada and the US.
The systemic marginalization led to socioeconomic dependency on settler states, alongside the forcible appropriation of lands and resources.
Contemporary Struggles and Persistence:
Indigenous peoples, now referred to as Native Americans, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, continue to resist their rights to self-governance, traditional lands, and economic independence.
There is a call for a decolonization of development practices to enable Indigenous self-determined growth and prosperity.
Issues in First Nations Economic Development:
First Nations societies historically had complex economies and knowledge systems; however, these have been undermined by failed government policies like the Indian Act and residential schools.
Development colonialism further integrates Indigenous economies into market systems, often to their detriment, as these are imposed without genuine consultation or respect for traditional practices.
Strategies for Decolonizing Development:
A shift is needed towards community-driven development in alignment with Indigenous values and systems, conserving unique cultural practices and sustainable economies.
Examples of successful self-determined economic initiatives illustrate the potential for Indigenous communities to thrive when their principles and cultural heritage are respected.
Case Studies of Success:
Whitefish Lake First Nation:
Developed Goodfish Lake Development Corporation to adapt to resource exploitation and regain economic independence through community-driven initiatives.
Carcross/Tagish First Nation:
Created a network of mountain bike trails to promote healthy living among youth and revive traditional practices, which also supported tourism and cultural preservation.
case study 1
ActionCanada was crucial in establishing the post-war international order, with Canadian figures like Lester Pearson and John Humphrey playing significant roles in the UN and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
During the Cold War, Western democracies formed organizations like NATO, OECD, and the G7 in response to ideological struggles against the Communist bloc.
Canada innovated peacekeeping and played leadership roles in treaties banning landmines and child soldiers, as well as environmental efforts like the Montreal and Kyoto Protocols.
Major organizations established post-WWII primarily address peace, security, trade, and finance, but newer global issues may require restructuring of these entities.
International organizations are largely influenced by Western democracies, with leadership mostly from the US and Western Europe, leading to calls for reform from emerging nations.
Emerging economies are creating alternatives to existing organizations, such as the New Development Bank and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, as they seek to assert their influence.
Current global tensions (e.g., Brexit, the rise of nationalism, and changes in US leadership) have complicated international cooperation efforts, raising questions about Canada's role in reforming the international order.
chap 7
Key Points on Non-Governmental Action in International Development
Terminology and Naming
The term "Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)" reflects a negative connotation, leading to the adoption of the term "Civil Society Organization (CSO)" in Canada.
Civil society encompasses all organizations not part of the government or the private sector, which can create confusion as it includes a diverse range of entities from humanitarian organizations to interest groups.
Historical Context
The concept of humanistic service is historical, with roots traceable to various ancient codes and religious texts.
Organized charitable efforts date back to medieval times when the Christian church was pivotal in establishing hospitals and educational institutions.
Theories on the Voluntary Sector
There are competing theories explaining the rise of NGOs: one suggests they emerged from governmental and private sector failures to meet societal needs, while another identifies "voluntary failure" in weak philanthropic cultures that enable state overreach.
Robert Putnam's research highlights the correlation between the efficacy of civil society and democratic governance, especially noted in his study of Italy.
Stages of Development for NGOs
David Korten outlines four generations of NGOs:
First Generation - Focused on relief and welfare.
Second Generation - Emphasizing self-reliant local development.
Third Generation - Adopting a systems-based approach.
Fourth Generation - Characterized by people's movements, especially among Indigenous and labour groups.
Samuel Martin detailed a similar evolution but categorized it into:
Community-based voluntarism.
Institutionalization for an organized response.
Professionalization for higher standards of operation.
A welfare state that supplants the need for voluntary organizations.
Critiques of NGOs
Critics argue that many NGOs perpetuate a paternalistic view of poverty that detaches it from systemic power dynamics and contributes to neoliberal agendas.
Concerns include dependency on government funding and alignment with exploitative industries that preserve existing inequities.
Development of Canadian NGOs
The international NGO landscape has a history linked to Canada, with significant organizations like the Canadian Red Cross and organizations founded post-war to respond to humanitarian crises.
The transformation of domestic NGOs in Canada occurred notably with the establishment of CUSO (Canadian University Service Overseas) and CIDA (Canadian International Development Agency), facilitating involvement in development projects worldwide.
Diversity of Involvement
Canadian NGOs are not purely development-driven; many professional organizations contribute through collaborations with counterparts in other countries (e.g., the Canadian Nurses Association).
Solidarity funds created by labour unions aid in international worker rights, showcasing a different model of engagement.
Distinctions between Humanitarian and Development Assistance
Humanitarian aid is immediate and reactive, responding to emergencies, while development assistance is planned and long-term.
Humanitarian NGOs often transition into development roles post-crisis but may also work exclusively in emergencies.
Changing Nature of Partnerships
Local civil society organizations have gained prominence in managing development projects, leading Canadian NGOs to shift towards supportive roles rather than direct execution.
New collaboration models reflect respect for local expertise and a focus on sustainability.
Public Engagement and Challenges
Canadian NGOs utilize fundraising, advocacy, and educational efforts to engage the public, facing challenges with traditional fundraising methods that may reinforce negative stereotypes.
Advocacy activities are often limited due to regulations governing registered charities and their political engagement.
Government Funding Dynamics
Canadian government funding for NGOs has evolved, with a structured historical context that includes responsive funding, needs-based funding, and country-focused funding.
Recent changes have led to funding instability and have prompted NGOs to diversify their financial sources away from government dependency.
Current Trends and Future Directions
There is a call for Canadian NGOs to advocate for systemic changes alongside their humanitarian efforts, requiring improved public understanding of development complexities.
Future challenges include adapting strategies to better align with local needs and global interdependence, emphasizing the importance of equal partnerships across borders in addressing poverty and supporting sustainable development.
Key Points on Immigration in Canada
Canada as a Land of Immigrants: Important role of immigration in Canada’s development; as of 2016, foreign-born immigrants represented close to 21% of the population.
Diversity of Immigrants: Immigrants now report birthplace from close to 160 countries, with Canada officially recognized as a multicultural society, adopting multiculturalism as a policy in 1971.
Legislative Framework: The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (1982) guarantees equality before the law, while the Canadian Multiculturalism Act (1988) aims to preserve and enhance multiculturalism and reduce discrimination.
Immigration Policy Objectives (IRPA 2002):
Maximize social, cultural, and economic benefits from immigration.
Strengthen social and cultural fabric while respecting bilingual and multicultural character.
Support economic development across all regions.
Reunite families.
Promote successful integration of permanent residents.
Historical Context: Early immigration policies aimed to attract European settlers for westward expansion and economic growth, but tensions arose with the arrival of diverse groups.
Racialization of Immigration: The rise of racialization in immigration policy and increased discrimination, notably against Asian immigrants, particularly after the economic recession of the late 19th century.
Continuous Journey Regulation: This regulation effectively limited Asian immigration by requiring a direct journey to Canada, which was often not feasible for South Asians, exemplified by the Komagata Mar
chap 14
Key Points on Canada’s Engagement in Afghanistan
Competing Perspectives on Intervention (2001-2011):
Government's View: Prime Minister Stephen Harper and officials asserted that Canada’s involvement in Afghanistan was bold and fairly successful. They claimed that Canada's whole-of-government (WOG) approach helped to consolidate the Afghan government's legitimacy in regions like Kandahar despite the Taliban insurgency. Significant achievements were highlighted, including:
Improved access to education for women and girls.
Refurbishment of infrastructure like the Dahla Dam.
Revitalization of agriculture in the Arghandab River Basin.
Critics' View: In contrast, opposition parties, activists, and scholars argued that, despite financial and military efforts, Canada’s intervention had failed to make significant progress in securing public services, women’s rights, or economic growth. Many suggested that misjudgments about the security-development nexus contributed to these failures.
Historical Context:
Canada’s approach to Afghanistan was influenced by its historical involvement in international conflicts, including a legacy of colonialism and peacekeeping missions. Historical examples showed how colonial powers failed to provide meaningful development and governance while prioritizing their interests, which later shaped Canada’s military and development strategies.
Previous peacekeeping experiences transformed into a perception of Canada as a “helpful fixer” in international conflicts.
Shifts in Policy:
The September 11 attacks and subsequent U.S. military interventions shifted Canadian policy from peacekeeping to a more militarized focus. Canada committed troops to NATO’s International Security Assistance Force and pledged significant aid to rebuilding efforts in Afghanistan.
The Canadian government adapted its peacebuilding efforts by framing interventions under an integrated approach combining security and development, especially concerning women’s rights.
Development Assistance:
Following the Cold War, new frameworks emerged for development assistance, focusing more on coordination between military and humanitarian efforts. Canada adopted a clearer policy on gender equality during this period, integrating it as a cross-cutting priority in international development.
Current and Future Engagement:
By the late 2010s, the results of earlier military interventions led to a re-evaluation of Canada’s approach toward fragile states. There were calls for a more balanced mix of security and humanitarian agendas.
The New Deal initiative focused on national ownership and the rebalancing of strategies for engagement in fragile and conflict-affected states (FCAS). Canada began to reassess its role in FCAS, including a withdrawal from militarized approaches
case study 5
Key Highlights on Canada's Multilateralism
Importance of Multilateralism: Multilateral institutions strive for consensus among members, but often fall short on delivering decisive solutions to critical global issues. Their credibility has been challenged, especially regarding international financial institutions in the late 20th century. Despite these challenges, multilateralism is essential for addressing transnational issues.
Canada's Role and Tradition: Canada has historically played a significant role in establishing the post-World War II multilateral system, considering itself an "honest broker" in international relations. However, there has been a recent trend of disengagement from multilateral engagements, with a renewed commitment from the Liberal government towards re-engagement.
Historical Context: Canadian multilateralism dates back to the League of Nations and Commonwealth Conferences. Throughout the second half of the 20th century, Canada's foreign policy has reflected a middle-power ideal, supporting initiatives with a commitment to progressive philosophies in the multilateral system.
Financial Contributions: Canada's notable contributions to international bodies include the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and various UN agencies. In the 1970s, Canadian funding to multilateral agencies peaked, driven partly to counterbalance U.S. influence. Canada was also the first to ratify the OECD Convention.
Challenges in the 1990s: The economic recession in the early 1990s shifted policy priorities toward conditional funding based on reform. Although multilateralism faced criticism, Canadian leaders defended multilateral institutions in the face of U.S. critiques, exemplified by campaigns against apartheid and their participation in global summits, albeit with financial constraints.
Decline in Engagement: The 1990s and early 2000s saw a downturn in Canada's commitment to multilateralism, with significant cuts in aid contributing to a perception of declining influence on the global stage. Canada began favouring bilateral relationships and prioritizing domestic issues. During this period, Canada adopted an "à la carte multilateralism" strategy, engaging only on select issues that served its interests.
Recent Government Policies: Under Conservative leadership, Canada's multilateral standing continued to erode, with notable withdrawals from key agreements like the Kyoto Protocol. This led to a reputation shift from being a multilateral leader to one characterized by skepticism toward international agreements.
Current Trends and Future Directions: The current Liberal government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has emphasized the need for Canada to re-engage with multilateralism, recognizing its importance for international relationships and developmental effectiveness. This includes acknowledging that Canadian identity is intertwined with participating in multilateral efforts for peacekeeping and humanitarian aid.
Impacts of Multilateralism: Active involvement in multilateral frameworks presents numerous advantages, including longer-term project sustainability, equitable aid distribution, and addressing global challenges like climate change and refugee flows. However, multilateralism also reflects historical inequalities, highlighting power dynamics that can perpetuate colonial legacies.
Conclusion: Multilateralism remains a critical strategy for Canada to promote its national interests, exert global influence, and contribute to an effective international community. Balancing economic interests with values-driven leadership is key to restoring Canada’s reputation as a champion of multilateralism.
chap 13
Introduction to Emerging Economies
Definition: Emerging economies are typically defined as low- to middle-income countries, transitioning towards developed market status. Low-income countries have a gross national income (GNI) per capita of less than $1,045, while middle-income countries range between $1,046 and $4,125 (as of 2015).
Characteristics: These economies often move from dictatorship to free-market systems, featuring increased economic freedoms, integration with the Global Marketplace, an expanding middle class, and improved living standards. They are often more socially stable and cooperative with multilateral institutions.
Identification of Emerging Economies
Identifying Countries: A definitive list of emerging economies is challenging to establish. The MSCI Emerging Market Index listed 28 countries as of June 2016, showcasing diverse regions such as Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe.
Countries Included: Examples include China, India, Brazil, South Africa, and Turkey, illustrating the fluidity and variability among emerging economies as market conditions change.
Factors Promoting Growth
Economic Growth: The key factor in becoming an emerging economy is sustained economic growth, allowing transitions from closed economies to open market economies that engage in global trade.
Comparative Advantage: Emerging economies often capitalize on their labour force to produce cost-effective goods and gradually evolve to produce more sophisticated products like electronics and automobiles.
Young Population: Many emerging markets boast young, educated labour pools, leveraging information technology to improve productivity and innovation.
Historical Context: Import Substitution to Export Orientation
Import Substitution Industrialization (ISI): In the post-colonial context, many developing countries initially pursued ISI to foster self-sufficiency and control over critical industries. However, ISI often became economically unsustainable and created inefficiencies.
Transition to Export-Oriented Industrialization (EOI): Due to the limitations of ISI, countries shifted to EOI policies, promoting free trade and competition to integrate better into the global economy and take advantage of larger markets.
International Trade Liberalization
Post-World War II Strategy: The general move post-WWII was towards trade liberalization through GATT and the WTO, enhancing global access for developing economies.
Bilateral Agreements: Development countries, including Canada, engage in multiple trade deals to foster economic ties.
Role of Financial Flows
Investment Flows: Foreign investments and loans have played critical roles in supporting emerging economies, with post-crisis periods showing significant investments flowing into developing Asia.
Impact of Financial Flows: Financial inflows have been associated with rapid economic growth and productivity improvements, often termed the “Asian miracle.”
Development Indicators
Economic Growth: Emerging economies exhibit varied growth rates; Asia leads, particularly with China’s economic expansion. Increases in GDP correlate with rising per capita incomes, demonstrating improved economic conditions.
Human Development Index: Progress in HDI reflects advances in life expectancy, education, and income, with growth in both high and middle-income countries contributing to development, most notably in Brazil, China, and India.
Developmental Challenges
Middle-Income Trap: Many emerging economies face challenges due to rising wages without concurrent productivity growth, necessitating innovation and technological advancement to avoid stagnation.
Income Inequality: Despite rising per capita incomes, inequality remains a significant issue, especially in countries where economic growth has not translated to equitable income distribution.
Environmental Sustainability: Industrial growth among emerging economies has led to increased carbon emissions, necessitating sustainable practices to balance economic growth with environmental health.
Implications for the Global Economy
Rising Economic Power: The collective output of Brazil, China, and India is projected to surpass that of traditional economic powers, indicating a shift in global economic dynamics.
Canada and Emerging Economies: Canada's economic relationship with emerging markets has grown; Canada must adapt its trade and investment strategies to reflect the importance of these economies in the global landscape.
chap 12
Introduction: The Role of the Private Sector in Sustainable Development
Development practitioners and theorists recognize the crucial role of the private sector in achieving sustainable development outcomes, functioning as an employer, taxpayer, service provider, financier, and innovator.
Historical Context
Neoliberal Policies: In the 1980s and 1990s, neoliberal strategies promoted economic growth through deregulation, privatization, and liberalization, aiming to attract private investment.
Focus on Financial Services: The late 1990s emphasized enhancing financial services for the poor, introducing initiatives like microcredit and micro-finance to support individual entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Role of the State Post-Financial Crisis: The 2008 global financial crisis shifted attention towards the state's role in correcting market failures, raising domestic resource revenues, improving food security, and establishing social protection mechanisms.
Contemporary Engagement with the Private Sector
Global Partnerships: Increasingly, development partners view the private sector as a critical ally in realizing the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Significant investments from major foundations and multinational corporations are intended to drive impactful social change.
Involvement of Canada: Since the mid-2000s, Canada has pursued a strategy of engaging with private enterprises, notably in sectors like mining, to bolster development initiatives in Latin America and Africa, along with encouraging innovative financing models.
Issues and Opportunities
Partnerships for Development: While the private sector is seen as integral to development, collaborations aiming to meet both commercial aspirations and social responsibilities pose challenges.
Historical Trends: The private sector’s role in development is rooted in a neoliberal framework, clashing with the contemporary need for an inclusive approach that considers the impacts on marginalized communities.
Evolving Canadian Policies: Canadian approaches to private sector engagement have transformed over decades, with historical policies initially focused on poverty alleviation but shifting towards profit-driven partnerships under recent governments.
Mechanisms of Engagement
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): These long-term contracts involve governments and private firms collaborating on infrastructure projects, and sharing resources to deliver essential services.
Advance Market Commitments (AMCs): These help stimulate investments in research for essential products by promising to purchase them at set prices, thus incentivizing private sector development in crucial areas like healthcare.
Role of Donors: Various donor organizations emphasize leveraging private sector investment and promoting business development in line with international development goals.
Challenges Ahead
Skepticism from Civil Society: Many critiques arise around the potential for corporate interests to overshadow genuine development objectives, suggesting that profit maximization may conflict with social good.
Need for Regulatory Frameworks: Calls for stronger regulations to ensure private sector involvement do not merely reform existing inequities but instead offer sustainable solutions that consider both profit and public welfare.
Balancing Interests: Finding a balance between aiding development and advancing commercial interests remains a significant challenge for policymakers and development practitioners in Canada and globally.
Conclusion
As the international community aims to achieve the SDGs, it is vital to consider how the private sector can contribute to sustainable development positively while mitigating its potential harms. This comprehensive perspective demands a nuanced approach.
links
Key Points on White Saviourism
Definition: The "white saviour complex" refers to the belief that people of colour need saving by white individuals, often manifesting in international development and representation in media.
Historical Context: Writer Teju Cole defined it over a decade ago as an emotional experience that validates privilege, illustrating the power dynamics between the Global North and South.
Kony2012 Example: The Kony2012 campaign was criticized for oversimplifying complex issues and lacking in-depth solutions, showcasing the pitfalls of white saviour narratives.
Aid Workers: Aid workers are often seen as "missionaries of development" who perpetuate capitalist exploitation while claiming to aid those in the Global South.
Power Dynamics: White saviourism is rooted in unequal power structures and the assumption that non-whites cannot manage their affairs.
Research Insights: Conversations with Global South contributors highlighted issues such as racism, colonial attitudes, and a lack of accountability within international development.
Decolonizing Aid: The phrase "decolonizing aid" has emerged as organizations aim to address racial biases and structural issues within international development.
Need for Change: There is a call for Global South aid workers to gain more control and dismantle the structures of white saviourism.
Key Points from The Three Languages of Politics (check your blind spots)
Different Political Lenses:
Liberals see issues as battles between victims and oppressors.
Conservatives view them as battles between civilization and barbarism.
Libertarians frame them as struggles between freedom and coercion.
Dysfunctional Political Discourse:
Political discussions are hindered because groups speak from fundamentally different perspectives.
This leads to a lack of understanding and moral self-righteousness among groups.
Blind Spots in Political Views:
Liberals:
Risk dehumanizing victims by denying their agency, and treating them as objects rather than capable individuals.
Conservatives:
May demonize immigrants and overlook the struggles of poor individuals, forgetting that many seek a better life diligently.
Libertarians:
Often romanticize free markets and fail to acknowledge situations where some are exploited or poorly served.
The Complexity of Social Issues:
Reducing political problems to a single perspective oversimplifies complex social issues. Various cultural, economic, and individual factors must be considered.
Key Points on Carl Sagan and the Baloney Detection Kit
Overview of Carl Sagan: Carl Sagan (1934-1996) was a highly regarded thinker known for promoting reason and critical thinking.
The Demon-Haunted World: In his book, Sagan emphasizes the need for skepticism and rational thought, especially in the face of untruths and propaganda.
Baloney Detection Kit: Sagan introduces a set of cognitive tools and techniques to defend against falsehoods. This kit is not just for scientists; it can be used by everyone in their daily lives.
Sagan's Nine Tools:
Independent confirmation of facts.
Substantive debate on evidence from knowledgeable people.
Authority skepticism: Recognize that authorities can make mistakes.
Multiple hypotheses: Consider various explanations before settling on one.
Attachment to hypotheses: Don’t hold onto a hypothesis just because you created it.
Quantification: Use measurable data to compare hypotheses.
Chain of argument: Ensure each link in an argument is valid.
Occam's Razor: Favor simpler explanations when they equally explain the data.
Testability of hypotheses: Each hypothesis should be falsifiable.
Logical Fallacies: Sagan outlines common pitfalls in reasoning, including:
Ad hominem attacks
Arguments from authority
Appeals to ignorance
Begging the question
Non sequitur reasoning
Slippery slopes
Confusion of correlation and causation
Conclusion: Learning the tools of reason is crucial, as is recognizing and avoiding logical fallacies. Sagan’s work encourages continual questioning and critical evaluation of the world around us.
Key Points on Globalization and COVID-19
Definition: Globalization is the interconnectedness of national economies and the integration of various elements such as information, goods, labour, and capital.
Recent Criticism: Growing discontent towards globalization due to political events (e.g., Trump’s election, Brexit) and the impact of COVID-19.
Pandemic Impact:
Economic Globalization: Significant downturn in merchandise trade and foreign direct investment (FDI) due to COVID-19.
Social Globalization: Travel restrictions affected migration, tourism, and remittances, disrupting social interactions internationally.
Political Globalization: Initial negative impacts on international cooperation, but subsequent collaboration seen during the pandemic (e.g., support from China to Italy).
Economic Resilience: Despite pessimistic forecasts, recovery from the pandemic has been quicker than anticipated, hinting at robust global trade systems.
Inequality and Globalization: The pandemic exposed deep-seated inequalities that globalization failed to address, emphasizing the need for equitable distribution of benefits.
Future of Globalization: Ongoing digital connections and international cooperation are essential for addressing future global health crises and ensuring equitable access to vaccines and resources.
Canada in the world
Radical Misrepresentation of History: The Complete Canadian Curriculum presented a skewed view of Indigenous peoples moving to reserves, omitting the violent realities of settler colonialism in Canada.
Ideological Underpinning of Colonialism: Canada's history is marked by the ideology that European settlers were superior, which justified oppressive colonial practices against Indigenous peoples.
Canada’s Colonial Foundations: The establishment of Canada was rooted in the destruction of Indigenous societies and the establishment of a capitalist state driven by wealth accumulation, often at the expense of Indigenous lives and cultures.
Enduring Legacy of Colonialism: The effects of colonialism have persisted beyond Confederation, underlining a continuous and systemic engagement in oppressive practices towards both Indigenous peoples and people globally.
Canada and International Relations: Canada's engagement with the world has often mirrored its colonial attitudes, where the desire to protect capitalist interests was prioritized over humanitarian concerns, often supporting oppressive regimes while undermining liberation movements.
Post-Colonial Attitudes: Despite changes in policies and public narratives, the fundamental ideologies driving Canadian actions in the world have often remained rooted in colonial and white supremacist thought processes.
Key Points on Integration in Forced Migration:
Definition Variability: The term 'integration' is contested and varies based on speaker and context; it can refer to either changes in newcomers or society as a whole.
Dimensions of Integration: Most definitions distinguish between material integration (economic aspects) and social integration (social aspects).
Societal Imaginaries: Some definitions reflect unacknowledged views of a homogenous society and can be used to justify excluding specific newcomer groups.
Bill 96 in Quebec: A law requiring government communication in French may hinder integration by limiting access to services for newcomers.
Public Discourse and Policy Influence: Integration discourses influence policies surrounding refugees and asylum seekers, often based on social constructions of newcomers.
Economic Integration: Employment and income are considered key indicators of integration success; however, refugees often face barriers to achieving these due to disrupted lives.
Social Integration: Involves participation in social networks and subjective feelings of belonging, which can be hampered by perceived differences between newcomers and the host society.
Intersectionality: Integration experiences differ based on individual characteristics (e.g., gender, age) and social contexts, influencing goals and pathways.
Two-Way Process: Successful integration requires efforts from both newcomers and the host community, challenging assimilationist assumptions.
Holistic Measures: Integration should be assessed through multiple dimensions, including emotional attachment, social networks, and access to resources.
Community Engagement: Policies should centre on refugee experiences and needs, and refugees should have a role in shaping integration policies and definitions.
The an urgent need for Canada to diversify.
Canada needs to diversify its trade beyond the United States due to its vulnerability; 75% of exports go to the U.S.
Economic growth has shifted significantly to emerging markets, particularly in Asia, while the U.S. share of global growth has halved over the past two decades.
Canada is underexposed to emerging markets, with only 9% of trade directed to faster-growing economies compared to higher percentages in peer countries (Germany: 20%, Japan and U.S.: 30%, Australia: 40%).
Competitors such as China have gained a larger share of the U.S. import market, diminishing Canada's position.
There has been a significant decline in Canada’s share of the world export market, decreasing from 4.5% to about 2% in 15 years.
The focus should shift to Asia’s major economies like India and China, leveraging sectoral agreements rather than waiting for comprehensive agreements due to risks associated with U.S. economic policies.
Key Points Putting Knowledge to Work
Transformation of Ecosystem: The ecosystem for international development has undergone significant changes, requiring Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to adapt and innovate.
Importance of Knowledge: Knowledge is essential for CSOs to maintain their relevance and effectiveness in navigating new funding landscapes and partnerships.
Funding Dynamics: There is a critical relationship between donors and recipients, influencing agenda-setting in development partnerships, especially in North-South collaborations.
Collaboration Between CSOs: The book explores collaboration among different types of CSOs and their need to build mutual capacities.
Influencing Local Practices: North-based CSOs are increasingly working with South-based CSOs to influence local practices and policies, recognizing the need for context-specific approaches.
Learning and Adaptation: CSOs are engaged in self-reflection and learning processes to improve their methodologies and effectiveness.
Emerging Players: New actors, including private foundations and corporate investors, are becoming influential in the development landscape, changing competition dynamics for traditional CSOs.
Call for Research: There is a lack of published research on the real-world challenges and solutions faced by CSOs, highlighting an avenue for further study and documentation.
Introduction
Host: Rick Harp from Toronto, Media Indigenum, Episode 336
Topic: Colonial carbon culpability and its impact on climate justice.
Source: Study by Carbon Brief analyzing 170 years of emissions regarding climate justice.
Key Focus: Historical responsibility for climate change and the role of colonial rule.
Key Findings from the Carbon Brief Study
Title of Study: "How colonial rule radically shifts historical responsibility for climate change."
Main Contribution: Adds a critical dimension to the understanding of historical emissions and their implications for today's climate crisis.
Findings:
The former British Empire significantly increased the UK's carbon emissions contribution—nearly doubling the responsibility attributed to them due to extractive practices during colonial rule.
The study aimed to highlight who has contributed to global warming and by how much, emphasizing accountability.
Colonial Legacy and Climate Justice
Historical Context:
Climate change is a cumulative problem; every ton of CO2 emitted since the Industrial Revolution contributes to current warming.
The urgency to reach net-zero emissions is to limit warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius, with only a limited carbon budget remaining.
Motivation:
Understanding whose actions have led to current emissions and their consequences.
Framing colonial actions as part of the historical narrative leading to today's climate issues.
Discussion with Special Guest Simon Evans
Background on Simon Evans: Deputy editor and senior policy editor at Carbon Brief, engaged in climate policy discussions.
Emissions Measurement:
The study’s starting point at 1850 due to increased fossil fuel emissions and changes in land use.
Canonical emission reports focus on cumulative data from this time onwards.
Modelling Responsibility:
Past emissions are tied to current countries based on historical colonial control.
Emphasized the importance of using accurate data from fossil fuel records and land-use changes for accountability.
Implications for Policy Discussions
COP28 Insights:
Climate justice is seen as an underlying issue in formal climate negotiations, though often understated.
Conversations regarding responsibility and reparations amidst discussions of climate finance.
Colonial Emissions and Global Emissions:
Results show that countries like India and Indonesia, under colonial rule, now face questions about responsibility for past emissions.
Perspective shifts with research showing a need for broader acknowledgment of the colonial impact on present emissions.
Analyzing Canada's Role in Emissions
Canada's Position:
Ranked 10th globally for historical emissions, with only a slight portion attributed to colonial history.
Per capita emissions place Canada 5th, reflecting significant individual responsibility.
Complexity of Culpability:
The debate over attributing emissions from the colonial era to modern nations is nuanced, leading to varying interpretations of responsibility.
Call for Equity in Climate Responsibility
Addressing Climate Justice:
The need for developing nations to have a say in emissions standards and reparations tied to colonial history.
Importance of discussing potential reparations and more extensive measures to address climate injustice as a society.
Future Considerations in Climate Policies
Solutions:
Emphasizing the need for substantial reductions in fossil fuel reliance while exploring carbon capture technologies with caution.
Advocating for progressive nations like the UK and Canada to enhance efforts in cutting emissions and aiding developing nations.
Final Thoughts:
The conversation around climate justice and colonialism must continue to evolve, challenging the sustainability of current models of development while acknowledging historical injustices.
Introduction
This book provides a comprehensive analysis of forced migration in and to Canada.
Forced migration shapes Canada's federal state and is a significant issue of the 21st century.
Aims to present critical analysis tools and a variety of perspectives on forced migration.
Why Care About Forced Migration?
In 2022, nearly 100 million people were forcibly displaced globally, impacting both internal and external migration.
Factors leading to increased forced migration include violence, global inequities, and climate change.
The book examines the right to asylum and the realities faced by migrants, including various forms of discrimination in Canada.
What is Forced Migration?
Distinguishes between voluntary migration and forced migration.
Forced migration includes various legal categories (refugees, internally displaced persons, etc.) based on their reasons for migration.
The UN Refugee Convention defines a refugee and the legal circumstances required for this status, which differs slightly in Canada.
Importance of Forced Migration in Canada
The history of Canada includes Indigenous displacement and its ramifications.
Canada engages with global refugee resettlement efforts while facing domestic migration issues, including environmental displacement.
Current Issues and Trends
Global political consensus is growing for cooperation on forced migration, but challenges remain.
The rise in climate-related displacement poses problems as affected persons are often not recognized under existing refugee definitions.
Structure of the Book
The book is organized thematically around forced migration experiences, intersectionalities, and processes in Canada.
It includes diverse perspectives and frames the discussions within historical and present contexts.
Conclusion
The book calls for acknowledgment of Indigenous perspectives and the intersection of various lived experiences, urging better protection of displaced people's rights and livelihoods.
Key Points: Canada must use its ‘soft power’ to champion global human rights
New Global Challenges: The world is facing significant threats that include climate change, inequality, populist movements, ethnic nationalism, and global epidemics, which challenge international solidarity and human security.
Shift in Economic Paradigms: There is growing disenchantment with neoliberalism and unregulated capitalism, prompting a reevaluation of international development priorities beyond mere income growth.
Redefining Development: The focus is shifting from GDP expansion to models of development that prioritize human rights, freedoms, and well-being, acknowledging the interconnectedness of global issues.
Human Security Concept: The UN promotes human security, advocating for health, food, and environmental safety over traditional territorial security, reflecting the global nature of threats.
Canada's Role: Canada has the potential as a leader in international development, but its recent reduction in foreign aid raises questions about commitment to long-term solutions and addressing root causes of underdevelopment.
Need for Ethical Leadership: A call for genuine global leadership, particularly from middle-power countries like Canada, is essential to promote ethical norms and ensure global security and human survival.
Key Points on AI Image Generators and Biases
The functionality of AI Image Generators: AI generators like Midjourney and DALL-E 2 create images based on text inputs using machine-learning models that rely on large datasets. They primarily use a diffusion process to generate images by adding and removing noise from data.
Influence of Input on Output: The outputs of AI generators can be heavily influenced by the specifications given in user prompts, leading to potential biases based on race, gender, age, and class.
Types of Biases Observed:
Ageism and Sexism: Non-specialised roles tend to feature younger individuals, while older individuals shown in specialized roles are predominantly men.
Racial Bias: Generated images often default to light-skinned individuals, reflecting a lack of racial diversity in training data.
Classism and Conservatism: Generated figures typically lack modern or unconventional appearances, favouring conservative attire.
Urbanism: AI assumes an urban context for images despite a significant portion of the global population living in rural areas.
Anachronism: Contemporary technology is often underrepresented, with older technological representations being more prevalent.
Implication of Biases: These biases can shape societal perceptions and reinforce stereotypes. It is essential to consider these factors when generating images or interpreting AI outputs.
Key Points on Artificial Intelligence in International Development
The potential of AI: AI has significant potential to address major international development challenges, like improving agriculture, predicting disease outbreaks, and enhancing urban livability.
Ethical Considerations: The use of AI raises unique ethical concerns, including issues of fairness and inclusion, transparency, accountability, data limitations, and privacy and security.
Algorithmic Decision-Making: AI systems that replace human decision-making in bureaucracies can lead to biased outcomes if not carefully managed.
Bias: Both system-level and data-level bias can perpetuate unfair outcomes, which is particularly concerning in development contexts.
Transparency and Accountability: Lack of transparency in AI systems can complicate accountability when they make decisions affecting people’s lives.
Data Limitations: Developing countries often lack the comprehensive data needed to effectively implement AI, leading to challenges in building accurate models.
Privacy and Security: Ensuring the protection of personal data and maintaining privacy is crucial, especially in contexts with weak data security laws.
Involvement of Stakeholders: Active involvement of affected communities and local stakeholders in the development of AI systems is necessary to ensure the tools are relevant and ethically deployed.
Principles for Responsible AI: The paper outlines principles for the ethical use of AI in development, including assessing the appropriateness of AI solutions, establishing openness and accountability, and defining clear roles and responsibilities in projects.
The UN and the multilateral system are in crisis – what the Global South must do.
The current global climate emergency and war in Ukraine have highlighted a crisis in the UN and multilateralism.
The absence of leaders from France, the UK, Russia, and China at the UN General Assembly raises concerns about global governance.
The UN was created in 1945 to prevent future wars, supported by the US and allied nations.
The UN system has grown to address various global issues but faces criticism and challenges in effectiveness.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine illustrates the UN's difficulties in responding adequately to crises, marking a decline in multilateralism.
The balance of power within the UN is skewed due to the veto power of the P5 members (US, UK, France, Russia, China).
Global governance mechanisms facilitate international cooperation, but face resistance from emerging nations and radical right movements.
For Latin America, a multilateral approach remains essential for diplomatic conflict resolution and asserting influence.
Lula emphasizes the need for reforming the UN to better address inequality and power asymmetries.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, includes:
17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Urgent call for action by all countries to end poverty, improve health and education, reduce inequality, spur economic growth, and tackle climate change.
Building on Previous Frameworks: The SDGs build on decades of work, including Agenda 21 from the Earth Summit (1992), the Millennium Declaration (2000), and the Johannesburg Declaration (2002).
Rio+20 Conference: In 2012, the UN Conference on Sustainable Development led to the adoption of "The Future We Want" and the establishment of SDGs.
Post-2015 Development Agenda: The negotiation process began in January 2015, culminating in the adoption of the 2030 Agenda at the UN Sustainable Development Summit in September 2015.
Landmark Year: 2015 saw the adoption of major agreements including the Sendai Framework, Addis Ababa Action Agenda, the Paris Agreement, and the 2030 Agenda.
High-level Political Forum: Acts as the central platform for reviewing the SDGs.
Division for Sustainable Development Goals (DSDG): Offers support and capacity-building for the SDGs, playing a key role in evaluating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Broad ownership and commitment from all stakeholders are essential for making the agenda a reality.
Geopolitical chess game: Why India Has no interest in Serving as a Western Pawn
Canada’s accusation that India was responsible for the murder of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar has deepened the divide between the two nations, exposing the West's empty rhetoric about democracy and international order.
Limited support from Western allies for Canada indicates India’s importance in the geopolitical landscape, especially in efforts to contain China.
India has become a regional rival to China, surpassing it in population and ranking as the third-largest economy by purchasing power parity.
The U.S. seeks to shift global resources from China to India, viewing India as a ‘safe’ partner due to shared democratic values.
Under Modi's regime, India's liberal democracy has been undermined by Hindu supremacist policies, leading to violence against religious minorities and the suppression of dissent.
Indian author Arundhati Roy warns that India is moving towards fascism, while India criticizes Western hypocrisy regarding extraterritorial assassinations.
India is not a pawn of the U.S.; it is pursuing its interests, which include maintaining relationships with Russia.
Chinese scientists are increasingly shaping the future of the Arctic amid China’s rising presence.
Despite tensions and a major border dispute with China, there is potential for improved bilateral relations through diplomacy and mutual benefits.
The U.S. benefits from tensions between India and China, yet if the two nations cooperate, it could complicate American interests.
As India rises in power, it will demand privileges akin to those of Western allies, challenging the concept of a rules-based international order.
Canada’s investigation into Nijjar’s murder is unlikely to yield results as India remains crucial to Western strategies against China.
Scientists play a significant role in educating about the Arctic's unique ecosystem and geopolitical dynamics.
Scientific research helps determine continental shelf boundaries for resource exploitation by Arctic states.
Arctic and non-Arctic states invest heavily to document territorial claims.
Research submitted to the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf for territorial ownership recommendations.
Non-Arctic states like China, India, and South Korea seek observer status on the Arctic Council through scientific research.
China's growing presence and technological advancements raise concerns about its Arctic ambitions, especially in international waters.
China signed a moratorium on commercial fisheries in the central Arctic Ocean, focusing on sustainable guidelines.
Increased Chinese publications in Arctic research, with a five-fold rise in the percentage of total articles from 2000 to 2024.
Significant focus on the central Arctic Ocean and Gakkel Ridge, with implications for regional fisheries management and mineral exploitation.
Chinese scientific research often operates independently, with a high percentage of authorship by Chinese researchers in Chinese-run publications.
Declining Arctic state presence in scientific publications suggests increasing knowledge escape and foreign influence in Arctic research.
A new UN report offers businesses a template for achieving true sustainability
Fragility of natural ecosystems: The ongoing impact of extractive economic activities on ecosystems is a persistent concern.
Historical warnings: The Club of Rome warned back in 1972 that infinite economic growth is incompatible with life on Earth.
Inadequate progress: Despite historical conferences, environmental progress in the last three decades is insufficient to address climate change.
Biodiversity loss: Human and industrial activities greatly impact biodiversity, which is crucial for Earth's self-regeneration and protection.
Paradigm shift: A true sustainability approach in business is necessary, which must be genuine and authentic.
Authentic Sustainability Assessment report: Released in November 2022, it provides a guide for business-oriented sustainability reporting using planetary limits as reference points.
Sustainable Development Performance Indicators (SDPIs): A new approach to measure sustainability performance without relying on outdated resource extraction assumptions.
Sustainability thresholds: Businesses should compare their impact against scientific thresholds to assess true sustainability.
Disclosure requirements: Increasing pressure on businesses to disclose sustainability impacts, especially with regulations like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive in Europe starting in 2024.
Millennium Development Goals (MDG) - 8 goals developed to help the globally progress over the next 15 years. The goals were set into place for the poorest, most underdeveloped nations, where wealthy nations would provide support to help get rid of billions dollars of debts.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) - 17 goals to help develop a more sustainable world for all people. The SDG involve all countries working together to help create a more sustainable world to live in.
Development
Something progressing; improvement of societal, social and economic factors in a given environment; growth;
International development
Development on a global scale; countries sharing and using international resources; partnership among organizations and nations to ensure growth;
More often than not the growth is not equal
Infrastructure
Necessities of life (water, education, access to food)
Globalization
The interdependency of countries and individuals on global scales; the way things develop globally to make the world a more connected space;
Colonialism
The act of taking over (or taking power over) another place or group of people; the occupation of another place; colonialism has been used in the development of countries. Forceful change in the way of life of the colonized region.
White saviourism
When people from the western world (white people) assume that people of colour need their help or see non-white people or places as less developed; a superiority complex assigned to western people which can lead to an imbalance in power structures
(missionaries as example)
Indigenous, First Nation, Métis, Inuit
Indigenous:Government/legal term to describe all First Nation, Métis, or Inuit peoples in Canada
First Nation:Indigenous person that is neither Métis or Innuit
Métis: person born or both european and indigenous descent - typically of french european
Inuit: indigenous person that lives in the north - more specifically in the Arctic region
Settler
A person that invades a land to “illegally” set permanent routes. With this, there is often assimilation or expulsion of the native population. The institutions of the native population are taken over and replaced by those of the settlers.
historically in Canada Often white european immigrants that moved to Canada to farm lands of the west of Canada (thanks to John A. Macdonald's campaign to populate the west and the Transnational Railway)
Took over the lands of Indigenous peoples to farm
People in Canada who are no Indigenous are
technically settlers
The historical role of settlers in the west was to
assimilate indigenous peoples. In return Indigenous peoples
were sent to residential schools, forced into reserves, and
had many other genocidal acts committed against them
Theory (partial and general)
A scientific explanation that explain something using facts and and predictions.
Partial: looks at the international sphere
General: is less specific and looks at inter-state relations
Modernization theory
Modernization theory is a theory that was created in the 1950s to 1960s based on a number of different theories to try and explain the evolution of countries until they become “developed”. There are 5 steps to this theory:
Rural and traditional
Transitional stage
Take off
Drive to maturity
Age of mass consumption
Economic growth
Economic growth is when there is an increase of both qualitative and quantitative goods and services produced.
New buildings
Gross Domestic Product
Neoliberalism
Focuses on deregulation, eliminating control on cost, low trade barriers, capitalism, and reduction in government spending.
Highly focused on spending and costs and less focused on human rights
Policy model that works to transfer “economic factors” from government to the private sector.
Potential danger to democracy and often give corporations too much power and therefore we experience economic inequality.
SAP
Structural adjustment programs were loans given to developing countries in hopes they would lead to reform. They hoped this program would lead to economic stability, sustainable growth, and close the gaps between developing countries and developed countries.
Dependency theory
Definition : Dependency theory looks at understanding economic underdevelopment by looking at the restraints on countries by the global, economic and political orders. It describes the global economic system and how developing countries rely on developed countries for economic success.
SDG and MDG
Millennium Development Goals (MDG) - 8 goals developed to help the globally progress over the next 15 years. The goals were set into place for the poorest, most underdeveloped nations, where wealthy nations would provide support to help get rid of billions dollars of debts.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) - 17 goals to help develop a more sustainable world for all people. The SDG involve all countries working together to help create a more sustainable world to live in.
Developed and developing
Definition :
Developing - “in progress” of attaining a certain standard or goal, implying there is still work to be done and room for improvement.
Developed - it has been elaborated and reached the goal. Which could be economic, political, sociological, etc.
Global South and Global North
Definition :
Global South consists of the countries that are still “developing” in terms of economy and power.
The Global North is considered “further developed” in terms of economy with more wealth and power.
Defining Development and Globalization in the Context of Emerging Economies
Development refers to the process of improvement in social, economic, and political aspects of a country, striving for better living standards, governance, and quality of life. It encompasses various measures and factors, including infrastructure, education, health care, and economic opportunities.
Globalization is the interconnectedness of national economies and cultures, facilitating the flow of goods, services, information, and people across borders. It plays a crucial role in shaping markets and influences how emerging economies engage with global trends and practices.
Importance of Development and Globalization:
Understanding development and globalization is critical for characterizing emerging economies as it helps assess how these economies navigate global markets and their unique challenges, such as income inequality, employment, and environmental sustainability.
Emerging economies often experience economic growth due to globalization; however, they may also face vulnerabilities associated with dependency on more developed nations.
Multilateral Solutions for Development Issues:
Issues like climate change illustrate the necessity of multilateral agreements that bring together nations to tackle shared challenges. Effective solutions require collaboration and recognition of the historical context of development, including the impacts of settler capitalism.
Settler capitalism involves structures that exploit resources and communities, often perpetuating inequities; thus, multilateralism must strive for inclusivity and equity to ensure that the voices of marginalized populations are amplified in discussions surrounding development strategies.
Connecting Women, Peace and Security with Canada and Migration
Women, Peace and Security (WPS): This framework seeks to address the disproportionate impact of conflict on women and aims to amplify women's roles in peacebuilding and security processes. It emphasizes the need for gender equality in all areas of peace and security, including conflict resolution, humanitarian response, and post-conflict recovery.
Canada's Engagement: Canada has taken an active role in promoting the WPS agenda globally, committing to integrate gender considerations into foreign policy, development assistance, and peacekeeping missions. This reflects Canada's understanding of the essential role that women play in building and sustaining peace.
Migration Context: Migration often becomes a critical aspect when addressing the WPS agenda. Women who are migrants or refugees frequently face heightened vulnerabilities during conflicts, including gender-based violence, loss of social networks, and limited access to resources. Addressing the intersection of migration and the WPS agenda offers a pathway to enhance the protection and empowerment of women in migration contexts.
Connecting the Topics:
Health and Security: Highlight how Canadian policies could improve health and security for women migrants, ensuring access to essential services protected against conflict-related disruptions.
Participation in Peace Processes: Explore how the inclusion of women migrants in peace and security dialogues enhances representation and leads to more robust and inclusive solutions.
Educational Initiatives: Discuss the importance of educational programs for women in conflict-affected migration settings that promote the WPS principles, fostering skills that enable women's participation in peacebuilding processes.
Humanitarian Response: Emphasize Canada's commitment to implement the WPS agenda within its humanitarian responses to migrant populations affected by conflict, ensuring that their unique needs are met.
Policy Advocacy: Advocate for an integrated approach in Canada that combines migration policies with WPS initiatives to foster a more comprehensive response to the complexities faced by women affected by conflict and migration.
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