Navigating Globalization, Diaspora, Foreign Policy and Sustainability

Globalization has emerged as a defining characteristic of the modern era, fundamentally transforming economic, cultural, and social landscapes across the globe. The interaction and interconnectedness between nations have intensified, resulting in numerous phenomena that can be analyzed from various academic and practical perspectives. This examination elucidates the dual nature of globalization, highlighting the advantages and challenges it presents, with a particular focus on economic growth, technological advancement, cultural exchange, environmental implications, and socioeconomic disparities. On the one hand, globalization has facilitated significant economic growth, primarily through the increase in trade and investment flows. Singh (2024) discusses how globalization has enhanced the movement of commodities, capital, and people across borders, leading to increased economic opportunities and the potential for higher standards of living. As multinational corporations expand their operations globally, they not only drive economic development but also spur technological advancements by fostering innovation through competition and collaboration. This internationalization of markets has transformed native businesses into “born globals,” or firms that begin exporting soon after being established, signaling the integration of global markets and their implications for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The incorporation of a global perspective in business strategy has resulted in a robust engagement with diverse markets, exemplifying how globalization has propelled economic integration. Furthermore, the historical context of globalization reflects its deep-rooted nature, as it is not merely a contemporary phenomenon. Mielants (2015) posits that elements of globalization can be traced back to the sixteenth century, asserting that the division of labor and the organization of world economies have long been influenced by international activity and exchange. This historical perspective provides a foundation for understanding the present-day dynamics of globalization, which are often perceived as novel. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that while globalization has evolved, the core principles guiding economic interactions have persisted throughout time. Despite the positive attributes associated with globalization, challenges abound, particularly concerning cultural homogenization and identity crises that arise in the face of global influences. As nations become increasingly interconnected, the unique cultural identities native to various regions may face pressures to conform to dominant globalized norms. Soelistianto et al. highlight this dichotomy, emphasizing the interactions between globalization and cultural identity. The transformative effects of globalization prompt societies to route the delicate balance between embracing new cultural expressions and preserving their unique heritage. Scholars have noted that the interaction with global forces often leads to cultural exchanges, with local traditions adapting or reshaping in response to international influences. Environmental degradation remains one of the most significant concerns linked to globalization, positioning the phenomenon as a double-edged sword. Advocates argue that globalization can lead to improved environmental standards due to increased economic wealth and the potential for international collaboration on environmental issues (Bu et al., 2016). Conversely, critics assert that globalization exacerbates environmental degradation by transferring pollution-intensive industries to countries with lax regulations. Aluko et al. (2021) provide insights into the complex effects of globalization on environmental quality, revealing that while higher levels of economic globalization may correlate with stricter environmental regulations, the net effect on environmental degradation is contingent upon various factors, including local governance and industrial practices. The connection between globalization and environmental sustainability has become a focal point for researchers examining its complex implications. Evidence suggests that while globalization spurs economic growth, it may simultaneously facilitate patterns of consumption that lead to ecological harm (Aladejare, 2022). Keho (2023) highlights that the impacts of globalization are heterogeneous, indicating that the relationship between globalization and ecological footprints is contingent on specific country conditions. It reinforces the notion that economic prosperity derived from globalization should not overshadow the urgent need for sustainable practices in light of the ongoing consequences of environmental degradation. In the discourse surrounding globalization, the notions of geopolitical dynamics and power relations emerge as critical components. The integration of global markets and the liberalization of trade policies have not necessarily resulted in a more equitable distribution of wealth, but rather a restructuring of power relationships. Benson (2023) reflects on how globalization impacts global governance structures, emphasizing that the phenomenon should not be seen as separate from existing power dynamics. As nations become interlinked through economic exchanges, the exercise of power transforms, influencing security and diplomatic relations on a global scale. This perspective urges scholars and policymakers to consider how globalization intertwines with issues of power and control. Moreover, the role of tourism as both a facilitator of and a reaction to globalization cannot be underestimated. The interplay between tourism, globalization, and environmental degradation presents a complex scenario where economic benefits often come with environmental costs. The classification of tourism as an engine for economic growth is challenged by its potential to exacerbate environmental impacts, particularly in regions lacking adequate sustainability frameworks (Ehigiamusoe et al., 2022). Sharif et al. (2020) suggest that as countries globalize and develop their tourism industries, concurrent pressures on natural resources may lead to heightened ecological footprints, necessitating a careful balance between economic development and environmental preservation. Finally, an examination of globalization reveals its multifold nature, intertwining various factors that collectively shape its trajectory. Historical challenges, economic expansion, cultural shifts, environmental impacts, and power dynamics all play pivotal roles in this intricate web. As we explore the globalization phenomenon, it is crucial to engage with interdisciplinary perspectives, drawing from economics, sociology, environmental science, and cultural studies to develop a comprehensive understanding of its complexities and implications for future development. The phenomenon of diaspora and its involved relationship with identity formation represents a significant area of study in contemporary social sciences. Diaspora communities vary tremendously across cultural, political, and social spectrums, leading to unique processes of identity construction that often unfold within complex transnational frameworks. The diaspora experience not only involves the migration and settlement of individuals in foreign lands but also encompasses the transference and redefinition of cultural identities, attachment to homelands, and interactions with host societies. This examination will synthesize diverse academic perspectives on the dynamics of diaspora and identity, highlighting the multifold nature of these concepts through various case studies and theoretical frameworks.

One of the most defining processes of our time, the effects of globalization are observable in numerous areas, among which the theoretical and practical characteristics of gender studies affecting society stand out. In this context, the gender-based equality ensured by gender ideology, which has resulted in significant changes in society, certain communities, and the economy, is globally spreading and can be perceived anywhere in the world. The gender ideology mostly represents unrestricted self-realization and equal participation, primarily in the labour market. This ideology is mostly represented by individualistic societies and is ensured for their community members through participation in activities provided by social infrastructures and institutions, which opportunities naturally also apply to individuals coming from collectivist societies, who primarily arrive in these countries for employment purposes. Nevertheless, these individuals, primarily women, possess such strong collective social and cultural ties that they find it difficult to adapt to the new environment, and therefore mostly live in diasporas that maintain their cultural values. It is important to highlight that these women exhibit numerous symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression, which not only complicate their daily lives but also further hinder their integration into the new environment. Most studies dealing with gender ideology do not address the potential connections between the ideology and certain mental difficulties, which this study analyses in detail based on questionnaires conducted with Thai women who have settled in Hungary from a collectivist society. The study’s results confirm the assumptions that these women possess such strong collectivist cultural and religious roots that make it difficult for them to accept and adapt to individualistic values and norms, and they experience significant stress and anxiety in their daily lives.

Climate change, which is currently further accelerated by increasing global warming, has led to numerous reactions within societies and politics. Within societies, but closely tied to and impacting the political sphere, one reaction to climate change developments is the desire of people, especially young people, to place something against their growing insecurity and fear regarding the future through activism. Observable is the clear need to be able to act, to have agency, in the face of a possibly disastrous future or, perhaps, of a non-future. This contribution considers selected activist groups such as Fridays for Future and the group The Last Generation, which operate in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, to show the variety in which climate activism can be articulated and performed. The (young) activists often see themselves as lone fighters called upon to save the world or as pioneers for a ‘better world’ in which they can live. In this sense, also figuratively in their self-perception, they occupy a diaspora position within European societies as they seem to be a small group of (young) activists who are only supported by a few others, while the majority of society does not join their climate protest in such an intensive manner. This is not to demean what we typically understand as diasporas but to take the concept of diaspora and see how it may apply to the context we elaborate and analyse here. In addition to an examination of both the common and different goals of various climate activist movements in Germany (and Europe), the contribution provides a classification of the origins and the organizational structure of these movements. It thereby considers the influence of global developments on the movements themselves as well as the movements’ global influence on others such as young people who are attracted by the activists’ example to demonstrate climate protection on the streets. Based on the analysis, a further desideratum of this chapter is to formulate an inventory of possible opportunities and challenges for society and politics that arise from these movements, their objectives and actions. In particular, it is important to clarify whether and to what extent some of the actors and goals are or could become extremist. The contribution thus elucidates both opportunities and risks of climate activists’ movements, to offer a more solid basis for potential ways forward in terms of actions and policy.

The phenomenon of globalization has ushered mass migrations across the globe leading to an increase in diasporic populations. The impact of globalization for these diasporic individuals is multifaceted. It has fostered interconnectedness with home countries and host societies, led to advancements in technologies and enhanced cultural exchanges. Increased migration is also accompanied by migration-related mental disorders and several other challenges pertaining to the identity, physical and mental health, discrimination, and unemployment. This chapter explores the interplay of globalization, gender, and sustainability on the psychological well-being of diaspora communities worldwide. It examines the challenges posed by identity formation, acculturation, minority status, and socioecological factors, and highlights the importance of adopting a holistic and intersectional approach to address these challenges.

South Korean photographer and artist Onejoon Che has been exploring the relationship between Africa and Asia over the last fifteen years. His internationally renowned projects, exhibitions, and publications cover various aspects of political and individual relations. This chapter provides an insight into his first project, based on the North Korean statues offered to African countries, followed by a film essay based on the life story of Mónica Macías, the daughter of the first president of Equatorial Guinea, who was raised in North Korea. Che further turned his attention to the life stories of African migrant workers in South Korea. His trajectory leads from the documentation of intercultural encounters to mediation processes.

The initiative called the “National Program for Happiness and Wellbeing” is launched by the government of UAE, and aims to get UAE into the world’s top five happiest countries. The whole idea is about bringing more happiness, well-being and positivity into people’s everyday lives. The current study focuses on African migrant students in UAE to understand their sources of meaning that predict the social well-being of African migrant students. The response was collected through an online survey and selected responses from 400 students across five universities in UAE. The results confirmed that most of the explanatory variables significantly correlated with the category of well-being. The findings of this research will encourage policymakers in the UAE to consider these inputs and to introduce the required initiatives to meet their vision of becoming one of the top five happiest countries in the world.

In the year 2023, remarkable economic growth has been noticed at the global level, as Gross Domestic Product reached $105 trillion across 193 nations. Yet, a harsh reality is that a mere seven countries, United States, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Canada, comprised 62.09 percent of global wealth. This disproportionate division of economic growth created a huge economic inequality between the Global North and the Global South countries. This chapter delves into the complex relationship between globalization and the socioeconomic conditions of developing countries, scrutinizing how globalization has impacted poverty and inequality. The aim and objective of this study is to highlight how globalization has increased the gap between global north and global south countries including how negative impact of globalization in developing countries has increased diaspora into the developed countries. This research will examine how globalization affects wealth and resource allocation, which has impacted poverty and inequality in less developed countries. Moreover, the chapter intends to elucidate how diaspora groups can either alleviate or intensify these outcomes via financial support back home, cultural interactions, and social advocacy. The findings of the study reveal that globalization has had a two-faced impact on developing countries. On the one hand, globalization of trade and investments has promoted economic growth, expanded people’s access to contemporary technologies and knowledge, created new job opportunities, and lifted many people out of poverty. On the other hand, globalization is associated with income inequalities, exploitation of workers, and the environment, and most of these effects are felt by vulnerable workers. Thus, the study raises diaspora communities as strategic agents within the homeland’s socio-economic context. Money that is sent by family members living in other countries is normally a vital source of funds for most households in developing countries, and this can reduce poverty levels. Nonetheless, this dependence on remittances may foster reliance issues and amplify talent exodus challenges, further entangling globalization’s effects.

Globalization showing tremendous economic growth led countries to open their boundaries for trade and commerce along with adopting a roadmap to interact with other countries in order to build good relationship by framing a strong Foreign Policy. Today, there are many factors that can influence the foreign policy of any country. Expand in trade and commerce no doubt brought economic growth but the other negative side to it is reflected in the debate and discussion of climate change. Among several issues emerged from Climate Change “Blue Economy (BE)” has drawn attention of the academicians, foreign policy experts, NGOs, various stakeholders, etc. The significance of marine resources and its rational use is the result of over exploitation of resources under water. It has many opportunities to boost economies, improve people’s quality of life, create job opportunities while protecting the sustainability of the ocean ecosystem. African Union is one step ahead to enhance its own economy by effectively implementing the Blue Economy. However, taking different case studies from African Union from different geographical locations like Seychelles and Mauritius, a comparative study can be done for better understanding and overcoming the challenges.

Plenty of literatures are available on Blue Economy, their opportunities and challenges particularly in Africa. But the underexplored area in blue economy is how the Foreign Policy of the African Union can act in an instrumental way and can help to promote their interest and can seek cooperation from other countries to address the challenges. The approach adopted is sustainable development which focuses on the cooperation of developed and developing countries and ensuring to achieve SDG 14. With this approach the article will focus on how the African Union will capitalize on the recent development of Blue Economy by getting support and cooperation from developed countries like Blue Finance, etc., which can only be reflected in the foreign policy.

The economics, safety, and way of life of its littoral states depend on the Indian Ocean. India has been a major theater of world geopolitics. It is the inevitable lifeline of the global economy. One-third of the world’s populace lives in the rim countries, which face challenges with economic and sustainable development because they significantly rely on ocean resources for food. Consequently, the ocean’s resources are put under heavy pressures like that of marine degradation, habitat destruction, pollution, and over-exploitation. But if marine resources livelihoods and food security are to be secured, as well as sustainable development goals, then increasing blue economy through sustainable and all-inclusive development of ocean’s possessions must be bestowed as topmost priority of the region. The mammoth potential of the blue economy should start to dawn on diplomats striving for a “blue diplomacy.” To overcome gravity and guarantee sustainable development in the area, this chapter offers ways to improve the blue economy. This chapter is articulated in the following manner: Section I presents literature review of Blue Economy; Section II Sustainable Development Goals in Context of Blue Economy; Section III Geostrategic Location of India and Indian Ocean: Potentialities and Opportunities for India; Section IV Indian Diplomacy Through Blue Economy.

The Armenian Diaspora and the state of Armenia have a complex relationship that can sometimes be confrontational. The fundamental issue is the divergence of interests between the established state and the diaspora, mainly in the current reaction to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Despite the differences, the diaspora has a solid connection to the homeland, particularly its history and national identity. The diaspora despite its presence before the genocide of 1915, the Armenian Genocide has been seen as the starting point of the diaspora. The diaspora has, over time, since then, had a decisive say in various initiatives of the Armenian state across the international arena, particularly in the assistance of the Genocide recognition. Armenian Genocide recognition is an integral part of the Armenian Foreign policy. Therefore, the diaspora, through various initiatives, including the use of pressure groups in their home state, ensured support for the recognition of the genocide and enhanced the foreign policy initiatives of the Armenian state. The diaspora involvement is not limited to the Armenian Genocide recognition; it also contributes to and assists in understanding the current conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. The Armenian diaspora also enhances the relationship with the home nations, mainly where the diaspora is highly influential in the political and societal sphere.

Globalization has both good and bad effects. Among its positive impacts, it has caused a revolution in the environment leading to a major crisis. Quick growth in industry and cities has harmed nature, wildlife, movement of people across the globe, and their health. The damage to our planet and changing weather have put global health and life at risk. Current studies clearly show how the environmental crisis hurts people’s health through polluted air, food scarcity, and unsafe water. However, there is a lack of knowledge about the impact of globalization and the environmental crisis on people’s minds and communities. Globalization-induced changes have led to an environmental degradation and several mental and social problems. According to the World Migration Report (2019) 3.6% of all people on Earth are migrants from other countries, which is about 281 million people. These groups that reside away from their home countries are more vulnerable to dangers resulting from changing world politics, increased conflicts, lack of natural resources, and economic hardships in a new country. Sometimes governmental policies may also push these groups to the side lines. This may limit their access to various services leaving them exposed to the effects of environmental crises. Additionally, a lack of social support, money troubles, and the loss of social and cultural identity can worsen these issues. This can make it harder for them to fit into their new societies and also affect their mental health. The present chapter aims to review the current research to highlight the challenges that diaspora and migrant communities face as a result of environmental crises caused by globalization. It not only focuses on the resulting mental and social stresses but also provides suggestions for policy and treatment.

India’s commitment to global sustainable solutions is evident through its active participation in international fora such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Smart Cities Mission (SCM). The ISA, co-founded by India and France, mobilizes resources for solar energy deployment globally. These initiatives aim to transform urban spaces into environmentally friendly hubs, enhance quality of life, and contribute to global sustainability objectives. India’s efforts demonstrate its commitment to addressing environmental challenges and collaborating with other nations to drive sustainable development and combat climate change. However, besides highlighting India’s initiatives and strategies on the international forum to promote sustainable solutions at the global and national levels, the chapter critically examines and analyzes the policy gaps and challenges in realizing the stated goals within a stipulated time frame.

The chapter argues that despite being guided by noble values and pressing determination to achieve the objectives, the two initiatives differ in their scope and implementation strategies. Moreover, particular emphasis is given to the latter to explore the efficacy of India’s national efforts and development commitments, given that development discourse centered on the performance and achievements of Smart City Projects (SCPs) has gradually disappeared from public and political spaces. Hence, the study is significant in India’s evolving governance challenges, which are affected by domestic electoral politics and the dynamics of the country’s federal structures.

Diplomacy has been an essential tool of any country’s foreign policy in the international system. Through diplomacy, nations conduct their international affairs; however, with the changing times, the nature of diplomacy has been widening, and health diplomacy has been one of the significant tools of any country to establish cordial relations with nations worldwide. To put this in place, it has emerged as one of the crucial components of “soft power.” Moreover, it is a vital conduit for international cooperation in addressing global health challenges, particularly advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3)—ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all. This chapter explores the intersection of health diplomacy, particularly India’s involvement, and the crucial role of mental health within SDG 3. It explains health diplomacy as a form of soft power and its importance in governing global health.

The chapter discusses SDG 3’s goal of ensuring overall well-being, stressing the significance of mental health due to its profound impact on our lives. Tracing the history of India’s Health diplomacy, it further discusses how it aligns with SDG 3 and strategies to maintain progress, particularly amidst challenges like Coronavirus. It explores India’s efforts to promote mental health in the nation and across the country. The conclusion offers recommendations to strengthen India’s health diplomacy efforts. It emphasizes the need for global efforts to support SDG 3 and mental well-being, alongside improving health outcomes within India. The chapter advocates for recognizing “health diplomacy” as a tool for building peace and urges a holistic approach to integrating mental health into global health discussions.

This chapter inspects the complicated relationship between Globalisation 2.0 and environmental sustainability and governs whether the current globalisation trends are friendly to environmental protection. In the era of a digital revolution, it examines the impact that international trade, trade liberalisation, and economic integration have on the environment. The research employed a qualitative approach to understand this causal effect. This study utilised a detailed review of literature, theoretical investigations, and the various concepts that highlight the research areas. On the basis of interdisciplinary research approaches that integrate political economy, international relations, and environmental theory, this study draws on historical evidence, theory, and modern case studies. Some models, such as David Ricardo’s Comparative Advantage and the Pollution Haven Hypothesis, form the basis of analysis of the link between trade policy, economic development, and the environment. Additionally, World Bank data are used to provide information on the world’s increasing trade, FDI, and CO₂ emissions. While liberalisation of trade has the advantage of bringing in resource efficiency and technology transfer, which are good for sustainable development, it also has the risk of environmental degradation from increased industrialisation. This chapter concludes with an urge to create international trade policies that will make economic progress go hand in hand with environmental responsibility, thus making globalisation sustainable.

Many stakeholders have been more interested in the previous few decades due to the diaspora’s involvement in topics typically related to development, such as trade, poverty reduction, economic growth, and post-crisis recovery. People are increasingly acknowledged for participating in transnational activities and their sympathies and connections to their countries of origin and destination. Governments are looking for ways to work more closely with diaspora populations to help them fulfil their goals and reach their full potential. This potential encompasses a wide range of resources that can be mobilised through international networks, not just financial remittances. The term “diaspora” has no universally agreed definition, and it refers to a vast range of phenomena. The chapter’s main objective is to demonstrate how each element contributes to development and the possible theoretical and practical effects on society. The author shows the benefits of transnationalism, diaspora, and intercultural communication within societies. These benefits include the sharing of knowledge, ideas, and values that positively impact the lives of the diaspora community’s counterparts in the country of origin and empowerment of the local countries through financial and non-financial diaspora remittances. As a result, this chapter helps readers understand how different forms of development contribute to improving civilisation in modern times.

The high-altitude area of Ladakh in the northern Himalayan region faces various climate challenges, including glacial retreat, volatile weather conditions, and water scarcity, which create threats for the regional ecosystem, livelihoods, and cultural practices. This chapter delves into the very complex interplay between environmental vulnerability, traditional indigenous adaptation strategies, and global climate change requirements. Field data shows Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) functions as a linchpin of climate resilience because it provides water conservation strategies, sustainable agriculture practice, as well as community-driven initiatives. Additionally, the chapter analyses the policy landscape, advocating an inclusive governance model that amalgamates traditional indigenous knowledge with relevant scientific advancements. By scrutinising Ladakh’s rare socio-environmental dynamics, this chapter reinforces the pressing need for adaptive strategies that prioritize cultural preservation alongside environmental sustainability. Finally, the findings of the chapter offer valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners focusing to develop potent climate resilience frameworks for vulnerable ecosystems world-wide.