Nepali Wanderer

Now that we’re at the grand finale, let’s try one last thought experiment: Imagine a world without nation-states. I know, it’s a daunting task. We find it easy to conjure up sci-fi scenarios like AI taking over or intergalactic tea parties, but when it comes to nation-states, our imaginations often hit a wall.

However, history teaches us that change is inevitable. Just as there were no modern nation-states 200 years ago, the future could usher in a radically different world structure. It’s conceivable that we may witness the emergence of a single global entity or even smaller independent units.

If we view the world as a single entity, one word springs to mind: globalization. This concept is not novel, as glimpses of it can be traced back to historical phenomena such as the Silk Roads, the Mongol Empire, and the Colonial Era. However, in our modern era characterized by flights traversing the globe in mere hours and instant global connectivity via the internet, globalization has become an undeniable reality.

Globalization, in this sense, may pose a challenge to the traditional nation-state model. The influence of transnational organizations is becoming increasingly significant, as evidenced by entities like the United Nations, World Bank, and the European Union. The EU, in particular, operates almost like a unified nation-state, leading to speculation about the potential emergence of similar global entities.

However, an unexpected challenge to nation-states may arise from mega-corporations and tech giants. These companies, deeply integrated into our daily lives through their technology and data, have already begun to exert influence on global politics. With the rise of AI, these corporations could potentially wield significant power over nations, evoking scenarios reminiscent of science fiction.

While the notion of tech giants dominating through AI may seem far-fetched, many large corporations already wield substantial influence over smaller nations. On the surface, it may appear that the dual forces of globalization and corporate power can bring economic growth and development to poorer countries. However, they can also pose significant risks. These corporations often exploit resources and labor in poorer countries, overshadowing local businesses and creating dependencies. This phenomenon has been labeled “Neo-Colonialism 2.0,” where corporate logos replace colonial flags.

Historically, powerful corporations like the Dutch and British East India Companies drove colonialism. While modern corporations aren’t identical, their influence is considerable. Through lobbying and funding politicians, they shape policies even in powerful states. This influence is even more pronounced in weaker nations.

The story of Britain taking control of the Suez Canal from debt-ridden Egypt in 1875 mirrors modern instances of superpowers using debt to control weaker nations’ resources. Cultural influence, often referred to as Coca-Colonization, also plays a role in neo-colonialism, shaping perceptions in smaller nations and contributing to brain drain as individuals seek better opportunities in the West.

Until now, it might seem that our story is heading toward a single entity. However, despite its apparent inevitability, an opposing force has emerged in recent years: nationalism.
Given their opposing nature, it may seem counterintuitive to witness the simultaneous rise of both globalization and nationalism. However, globalization has actually fueled the rise of nationalism in many parts of the world. The fear of losing local traditions and cultures has led to a resurgence in nationalism, often rooted in religion. For countries with colonial pasts, globalization can evoke memories of colonialism, fostering suspicion of external influences.

But here’s where things could take an ironic turn. The very force of nationalism, driven by a desire for a unique identity, might actually lead to the disintegration of nation-states into smaller units—a process known as devolution. Groups with shared culture and identity may strive for their own nation-states, as evidenced by movements among Kashmiris, Kurds, and Catalans. Thus, globalization, nationalism, and potential devolution, though seemingly contradictory, are interconnected and can coexist. Our future may feature smaller decentralized units with strong nationalism, coexisting with a global culture dominated by a few powerful MNCs and superpowers.

Ultimately, religion and money, our dynamic duo, have withstood the test of time. They have witnessed humanity’s journey from the invention of the wheel to the rise of the selfie stick. Whether we end up with nation-states or something entirely different, these two characters will always play starring roles.

So, let’s sit back and enjoy the show.