MODULE 5: Contemporary Global Governance

CONTEMPORARY WORLD

Introduction Global governance represents the intricate web of mechanisms, both formal and informal,
that orchestrates the provision of public goods on a worldwide scale in the absence of a
global government. This multifaceted concept encapsulates a rich tapestry of ideas,
norms, policies, and organizations that guides various actors - encompassing states,
international governmental organizations (IGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs),
non-governmental organizations (NGOs), transnational corporations (TNCs), and
individuals - in comprehending and addressing issues transcending national borders. At
its core, global governance is a set of inquiries that elucidate how the world has been, is
currently, and could be governed. It is a discourse on the evolution and transformation
of governance patterns, from grand global strategies to the subtle shifts in decision-
making processes (Weis, 2013).

Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/

Yet, today, a glaring disparity looms between the surging global challenges we face - from
climate change and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction to terrorism,
financial volatility, and pandemics - and the archaic political structures governing
international affairs, structures that have endured for centuries. These challenges
necessitate a recalibration of our global governance mechanisms to align with the
demands of the contemporary world, underscoring the imperative of adapting our
institutions and practices to address the pressing issues of our time.

Lesson Understand the concept of global governance.

Outcomes
Determine the challenges of global governance in the 21 st century; and

Propose possible approaches to settle international disputes.

Content In the post-Cold War era, a profound shift towards decentralized governance has taken
place on the global stage. The United States, grappling with significant setbacks in

Prepared by: R.B. E. Abiva, MA-MP (C)1 | P a g e

conflicts like the Gulf War and Afghanistan, has witnessed the emergence of regional
alliances led by rising powers such as China, Russia, and Brazil. This transformation,
often referred to as "The Post-American World" by Zakaria (2008), marks a transition
where the US retreats while the rest of the world gains economic and political influence.

This transition challenges the traditional notion of the sovereign territorial state or nation-
state, which has long served as a model for political and social development in the
Western world. The fundamental elements of the nation-state, as described by
Hobsbawm (1996), are being redefined in the face of various factors, including the
dissolution of the Soviet Union, the rise of transnational movements (e.g., Catalonia's bid
for independence), and global crises demanding international solutions (such as Covid-
19 and the Russo-Ukraine War of 2022).

Source: https://epthinktank.eu/2023/01/12/latest-on-russias-war-on-ukraine-what-think-tanks-are-thinking-2/

These challenges weaken the traditional power and function of nation-states, opening the
door for supranational and infra-national forces to exert influence. This transformation
occurs through the creation of supranational economies, the proliferation of regional and
global institutions like the EU, ASEAN, and the UN, and the blurring of territorial borders
due to technological advancements.

Furthermore, the rise of non-state actors in both the public and private sectors has
reshaped global governance. These organizations, driven by lofty goals, engage in multi-
sectoral partnerships and operate with greater efficiency than the bureaucracies of
nation-states. As Weis (2013) suggests, the proliferation of non-state actors has ushered
in an era of global partnership between public and private entities.

Prepared by: R.B. E. Abiva, MA-MP (C)2 | P a g e

 Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/24/world/americas/what-is-the-united-nations.html

Among these non-state actors, the United Nations (UN) plays a pivotal role in shaping
world affairs. Its five branches, including the General Assembly, Security Council,
International Court of Justice, Economic and Social Council, and Secretariat, work
collectively to enforce international law, ensure security, promote human rights, foster
economic development, and facilitate social progress worldwide.

Additionally, the G20+ has emerged as a new framework for global cooperation, with a
primary focus on preserving global economic stability and promoting inclusive growth
for all nations and peoples. Its functions encompass facilitating dialogue, promoting
economic reform, and responding to global economic crises.

Source: https://www.nalandaopenuniversity.com/g20-summit-2023-schedule-venue-dates/

Prepared by: R.B. E. Abiva, MA-MP (C)3 | P a g e

 In this evolving landscape of global governance, the traditional sovereignty of nation-
states is being redefined and reshaped by a multitude of actors, including emerging
powers, supranational institutions, and non-state organizations. Adaptation to these
changes is imperative for addressing the complex challenges of our interconnected world.
Activity and Critical/ Reflective Essay
Assessment
Gather news articles from the internet tackling the global crises, like the current situation
in Ukraine-Russian War. Examine and explore how the Philippines, as member of the
global community, can help to resolve the issue.

Write your ideas in 150-300 number of words, Arial, size 12, and must be in PDF format.
Print and submit your paper on our next face to face class. Please elaborate and defend
your answer.

References 1. Bhargava, Vinay (2006). The Role of the International Financial Institutions in
Addressing Global Issues. In Global Issues for Global Citizens: An Introduction to
Key Development Challenges. Pp. 393-409.
2. Botor, Nephtaly Joel B., Peralta, Eric Paul D., Ferrer, Raphael M., Amparo, Jennifer
Marie S., Laude, Terie-Marie P., and Pawilen, Greg T. (2020). A Course Module for
The Contemporary World. Rex Bookstore, Manila.
3. Dreher, A (2009). IMF Conditionality: Theory and Evidence. Public choice, 141 (1-2).
233-267.
4. Rajan, R.G. (2010). Rebalancing the Global Economy. New Perspectives Quarterly 27,
No. 4 (2010):7-9.
5. Velocity Global. Globalization Benefits and Challenges.
https://velocityglobal.com/blog/globalization-benefits-and-challenges/
hat-is-globalization

Prepared by: R.B. E. Abiva, MA-MP (C)4 | P a g e