State and Globalization: Who Wins and Who Loses?

This article criticizes the idea of the recession of globalization and the return of the state. Some authors argue that, due to conflicts and pandemics, there is a resurgence of state interventionism, characterized by border closures, a reduction in global value chains, and increased economic protectionism. However, globalization has not come to a standstill. Reshoring is minimal, mainly resembling nearshoring or “friendshoring”. Global trade is on the rise, and, in response to global challenges, like the pandemic, there is enhanced international coordination. The state has not withdrawn previously; therefore, there is no comeback now. Rather, the state has adapted. Despite looking like adversaries, the state and globalization do not necessarily produce winners or losers; it is more of a mutually beneficial process. Concurrently, globalization is influencing the state, and states are seeking cooperation, thereby reinforcing the push towards globalization.