What is the relation between politics and globalization?- Minjee Kim 김민지

 

1) Summary

Politics and globalization are closely linked, and the connection has grown more complicated over time. In the early stages of globalization, most attention was given to trade, cultural exchange, and the spread of technology. Political factors were present, but they did not dominate the discussion. Today, however, politics often determines the direction and limits of globalization. Governments increasingly view global connections not only as opportunities but also as potential risks that must be managed.

This shift is especially clear in several areas: global governance, international institutions, technology, and security. Countries use political tools—such as sanctions, alliances, and regulatory policies—to protect national interests while competing for influence on the global stage. Likewise, global issues like climate change, migration, or digital governance cannot be solved by a single country, so states must cooperate while protecting their sovereignty. In this sense, globalization does not simply weaken political power; it reshapes how political authority is exercised across borders.

Politics, therefore, is not outside globalization. It is one of the main forces that structure global interactions, influencing how countries collaborate, compete, negotiate rules, and adjust to global challenges.

2) What I Learned

While exploring this topic, I realized that globalization is not only about economic integration—it is fundamentally political. I used to think that political conflicts mostly happened within national borders. But now I understand that political power extends across global networks, affecting how states interact and how global norms are created.

One important insight is that globalization strengthens both cooperation and rivalry. For example, international organizations like the UN or WHO encourage collective action, but at the same time, powerful states use global influence to shape rules in their favor. As a result, globalization becomes a space where political claims, values, and interests constantly collide.

Another thing I learned is how political decisions can reshape global flows. A single policy—like restricting semiconductor exports or banning specific platforms—can influence global supply chains and communication networks. This made me realize that globalization is fragile and heavily dependent on geopolitical stability. I also found it interesting that non-state actors, such as NGOs or multinational companies, now participate directly in global political processes. They raise public awareness, push for environmental standards, and pressure governments. Their involvement shows that political globalization is not limited to states anymore.

3) Discussion

One question I keep thinking about is how much political control over globalization is necessary—or even desirable. States often justify restrictions on trade, technology, or digital platforms as measures to protect national security. But at the same time, excessive control can isolate societies, reduce openness, and limit the benefits of global cooperation.

For example, when countries block certain technologies or international exchanges, they may prevent security risks but also slow the movement of ideas, data, and innovation. This raises a deeper question: How can we balance global cooperation with national interests? And who should have the authority to make decisions that affect global networks—governments, international organizations, or non-state actors?

I would like to discuss this with classmates, especially the idea of whether a “fair global governance system” is possible. If powerful countries dominate global rules, smaller countries may lose influence. But if decisions rely too heavily on global networks or NGOs, questions of legitimacy and accountability arise. The challenge is finding a structure where states, civil society, and international institutions share responsibility without undermining each other.

4) References

Held, D., McGrew, A. (2007). Globalization Theory: Approaches and Controversies.
Steger, M. (2013). Globalization: A Very Short Introduction.

5) Using AI

I received GPT-5’s help only when translating or refining certain English expressions.
The overall structure, main ideas, and paragraph composition were done on my own.