resistance to globalization after 1900 unit 9.7 

Introduction to Globalization Resistance Movements

• Globalization has not universally benefited all nations; resistance movements have emerged in response to its adverse effects.

The Bretton Woods Conference (1944)

• Held in 1944, this conference was led by the United States with capitalist nations to establish a stable post-World War II economic order.
• Aim: To avoid economic crises that contributed to World War II.

Key Institutions Established

1. World Bank
   • Originally focused on reconstructing Europe post-war.
   • Shifted to providing loans and assistance to developing countries for reducing poverty and promoting sustainable economic growth.
2. International Monetary Fund (IMF)
   • Facilitates monetary cooperation between member states.
   • Promotes free trade and stable currency values, often linked to the U.S. dollar.

Impact of Bretton Woods System

• The economic order created post-1944 promoted significant global economic growth but did not distribute benefits equally.
• Critics argue the system marginalizes the global South, drawing parallels to older imperialist practices that exploit economies for the benefit of the global North.

Exploitation by Multinational Corporations

• Multinational corporations leverage the global economic policies to exploit labor in developing nations with fewer regulations.
• This economic framework undermines local economic autonomy in favor of a homogenized global order.

Anti-Globalization Movement

• In response to perceived injustices caused by global economic policies, a visible anti-globalization movement emerged.
• Battle for Seattle (1999)
  • A pivotal protest during the WTO meeting in Seattle.
  • Over 40,000 protestors from diverse backgrounds galvanized against globalization.
  • Police response included tear gas and rubber bullets, highlighting tensions.
  • This event marked the rise of a larger resistance movement representing marginalized voices.

Cultural Resistance to Globalization

• Globalized culture, stretched by social media, faces resistance from states fearing cultural dilution.
• Case Study: China
  • Responded to social media’s influence by banning platforms like Facebook and Twitter to control the flow of information.
  • Cited social media as responsible for unrest, specifically the 2009 riot between Han and Uighur populations.
  • Introduced domestic platforms (e.g., Weibo) to provide social media services while filtering out undesirable content.

• The content underscores the complexities of globalization, illustrating economic disparities and cultural tensions that provoke resistance globally.