Deglobalization: Its Nature and Forms

In a rapidly changing world, the concept of deglobalization is taking on a new meaning. This is not about promoting a more ethical and democratic global order, but rather a shift towards states playing a significant role in geo-economic institutions.

This deglobalization process is evident in various parts of the world. For instance, Europe is building a 'Fortress Europe', while the United States is developing into a 'Fortress America', both exerting influence in their respective regions. Meanwhile, Russia and China are asserting their power over Eastern Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, respectively.

The old rules of free trade no longer apply as the world is now divided into states competing in the global economy. This competition is not just economic but also geopolitical, with a new kind of geo-economic competition replacing the once-dominant western-led institutions and multilateral rules.

One area heavily affected by this shift is the global labor market. The Philippines, for example, is a significant supplier of unskilled, low-skilled, and highly skilled labor. Many of its people, particularly from lower and middle-income backgrounds, are drawn to migration opportunities.

However, this migration has its downsides. Elites in the Global North, including national states, hospitals, and private agencies in countries like Germany, have been criticised for exploiting care workers from the Global South through recruitment programs. Countries like Tunisia, India, and the Philippines are among the top exporters of care workers to the Global North.

The issue of Filipino caregivers and healthcare workers being recruited abroad, leaving a shortage in their own country, is a sensitive issue in the Philippines. The universal human rights, often touted as a global standard, are criticised in the Global South as being Western and imperialist.

As the world navigates this new landscape, it's crucial to address these issues and strive for a more equitable and ethical global order. The principle of subsidiarity and democracy, which emphasises decision-making at the most appropriate level, could play a stronger role in this new world order.