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Assignment Activity Unit 1

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Song Benard
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POLS 1503-01 Globalization - AY2025-T2

Assignment Activity Unit 1

University of the People

Prince Dieu-Donne Fonu (Instructor)

NOVEMBER 14, 2024


Title: Key Issues in Globalization

Introduction

Globalization represents a complex phenomenon that has transformed economies, cultures, and

societies worldwide. This essay aims to investigate significant aspects of globalization through

the analysis of a case study presented in The Global Citizen Issue 2: Globalization. Pier, D.,

Mehling, K. C., Zerzan, R., Friedman, T., Auguston, A., &Wolfe, T. (2014). By exploring the

ways in which globalization has affected lives, contributed to conflicts, and recognizing possible

solutions, we can gain a deeper insight into its intricacies and consequences.

Case Study Overview

In this assignment, I will concentrate on the case study that examines the effects of globalization

on local farmers in developing nations. This case illustrates the significant transformations

induced by globalization, especially within the agricultural industry.

A. How Globalization Changed Some People’s Lives

Globalization has profoundly transformed the circumstances of local farmers by connecting them

to international markets. This integration has enabled many farmers to reach broader markets for

their goods, which may lead to enhanced earnings. For example, farmers in nations such as

Kenya have successfully exported fresh flowers and vegetables to European markets, yielding

greater profits than those achieved through local sales. Minot, N., & Ngigi, M. (2004).

Nevertheless, this integration presents challenges, including heightened competition from larger
agricultural enterprises and price volatility influenced by global demand. Consequently, while

globalization has created new prospects, it has also brought about risks for small-scale farmers.

B. Globalization Led to Conflict

In the selected case study, globalization has resulted in various conflicts, especially concerning

land utilization, labor rights, and environmental sustainability. Multinational corporations, in

their pursuit of profit maximization, frequently favor extensive agricultural operations over

traditional farming methods, which consequently displaces local communities and undermines

their livelihoods. Pier, D., Mehling, K. C., Zerzan, R., Friedman, T., Auguston, A., &Wolfe, T.

(2014). Suggested resolutions to these issues involve the adoption of fair trade practices that

guarantee just compensation for farmers, as well as the encouragement of sustainable agricultural

techniques. Additionally, it is essential to advocate for more robust regulations to safeguard local

farmers from exploitative practices.

C. Avoiding Future Conflicts

To mitigate the occurrence of similar conflicts as globalization progresses, it is crucial to

emphasize community involvement and empowerment. Pier, D., Mehling, K. C., Zerzan, R.,

Friedman, T., Auguston, A., &Wolfe, T. (2014). This may include the development of policies

that assist smallholder farmers, such as facilitating access to credit and offering training in

sustainable agricultural methods. Furthermore, establishing collaborations between local farmers

and international businesses can help ensure a more equitable distribution of the advantages of

globalization. Promoting transparency within supply chains and enhancing consumer awareness

regarding the origins of products can additionally encourage ethical practices.


D. Regional Impact of Globalization

In recent years, Nairobi, Kenya, has experienced a significant increase in globalization,

characterized by enhanced trade, cultural interactions, and the rapid advancement of technology.

Nzau, M. (2023). Local enterprises now have the opportunity to access international markets via

e-commerce platforms, enabling them to market their products beyond local confines. The

phenomenon of cultural globalization is reflected in the extensive presence of global media and

diverse culinary options, which not only enrich the local culture but also prompt concerns

regarding the potential erosion of traditional practices.

E. Current Visibility of Globalization's Results

The effects of globalization are evident today in numerous ways. For instance, the expansion of

multinational corporations has contributed to job opportunities in urban centers, yet it has also

given rise to income inequality. Pier, D., Mehling, K. C., Zerzan, R., Friedman, T., Auguston, A.,

&Wolfe, T. (2014). While certain communities flourish, others find it difficult to compete with

larger businesses. Furthermore, the impact of global culture is reflected in the widespread

adoption of international brands and lifestyles. Nevertheless, in some regions, the advantages of

globalization may not be as visible due to entrenched inequalities and obstacles to access.

F. Conclusion

Globalization offers both prospects and difficulties. Through the examination of local farmers as

a case study, we can better understand how globalization affects lives, incites conflicts, and

presents potential solutions for a more just future. Pier, D., Mehling, K. C., Zerzan, R.,

Friedman, T., Auguston, A., &Wolfe, T. (2014). As we navigate the intricacies of globalization,
it is essential to implement strategies that emphasize sustainability, equity, and community

empowerment, ensuring that the advantages of this global trend are accessible to all.

815 Words

References

 Pier, D., Mehling, K. C., Zerzan, R., Friedman, T., Auguston, A., &Wolfe, T. (2014). The

Global citizen Issue 2: Globalization. United Nations Association of the United States of

America.

 Minot, N., & Ngigi, M. (2004). Are horticultural exports a replicable success story?:

evidence from Kenya and Côte d'Ivoire. Intl Food Policy Res Inst.

 Nzau, M. (2023). The Impact of Globalization in Kenya. In The Palgrave Handbook of

Contemporary Kenya (pp. 305-315). Cham: Springer International Publishing.

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