TOPIC: GLOBAL DIVIDE : North and the South

Global divide

The term global divide connotes disparities in income and living conditions between the advanced and
developing states.

There are two types of global division:

1. Global North - rich and industrialized countries

2. Global South - poor and developing countries.

1. Global north (rich) - the nations of the world which are characterized by a high level of economic and
industrial development, and are typically located to the north of less industrialized nations. Global north is
composed of first and second world countries. Some of the countries that belong to Global North are United
States of America, Canada, England, Singapore, and Japan.

First world countries

First world nations are those described as highly-developed industrialized, technologically-advanced,

educated, and wealthy. In contrast to developing(second world) and less-developed (third world) countries, the
first world is seen to enjoy many benefits such as a relatively high quality of life and prosperity.

Second world countries

The term "second world" was initially used to refer to the Soviet Union and countries of the communist
bloc. It has subsequently been revised to refer to nations that fall between first and third world countries in
terms of their development status and economic indicators.

2. Global south (poor) -the nations of the world which are regarded as having a relatively low level of
economic and industrial development, and are typically located to the south of more industrialized nations.
Global south is composed of third world countries like India, Pakistan and Indonesia.

Third world countries

The modern definition of “Third World” is used to classify countriesthatarepoor or developing. Countries
that are part of the “third world” aregenerallycharacterized by (1) high rates of poverty, (2) economic and/or
politicalinstability, and (3) high mortality rates.

Significance of Global Divide

in Contemporary World Global divide plays an important role in the Contemporary World because it
balances the cycle of the goods and products in our market to maintain the balance in our economy. We may
see it as an unfair division of countries but it works like a food chain in nature. One needs to be a predator and
the other needs to be a prey in order for the cycle to continue.

Historical background

Origin and historical context of the divide

 in the 1980s the brandt line was proposed by the West German former chancellor Will Brandt. It was
a way of showing how the world was geographically split into relatively richer and poorer nations. Richer
countries are almost located in the northern hemisphere , poorer countries are mostly located in the tropical
regions and the southern hemisphere .

The idea of categorizing countries by their economic and developmental status began during the Cold
War with the classifications of East and West. The Soviet Union and China represented the East, and the
United States and their allies represented the West. The term 'Third World' came into parlance in the second
half of the twentieth century. It originated in a 1952 article by Alfred Sauvy entitled "Trois Mondes, Une
Planète." Early definitions of the Third World emphasized its exclusion from the East-West conflict of the Cold
War as well as the ex-colonial status and poverty of the peoples it comprised.

Colonialism and its impact

Colonialism is a control by one power over a dependent area of people . occurs when one nation
subjugates another , conquering its population and exploiting it, while forcing its own language and cultural
values upon its people. Such control is done by establishing colonies and generally with the aim of economic
dominance. Colonialism was practice by empires such as ancient Greece, ancient rome, ancient Egypt and
Phoenicia.

Western colonial expansion began during the 15th century when Spanish and Portuguese explorers
conquered “new” lands in the West Indies and the Americas. It continued for over 400 years, and ended with
the start of the first World War. By that time western powers such as Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy,
Belgium, Portugal and Spain, spurred on by their competitive desire to acquire new lands and resources, had
colonized the whole of Africa and the areas that we know today as the Americas, Oceania, Australia, New
Zealand, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and many parts of Asia.

The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) likewise embarked on an expansionist period that took
place during the first half of the 20th century. By mid-century, due to lands gained through an aggressive
expansionist policy and through post-World War II treaties, the Soviet Empire gained control of all of Russia
and most of Central Asia and Eastern Europe.

Colonialism's impacts include environmental degradation, the spread of disease, economic instability,
ethnic rivalries, and human rights violations.

Post world war II Developments

After World War II a number of developing countries attained independence from their former colonial rulers.
One of the common claims made by leaders of independence movements was that colonialism had been
responsible for perpetuating low living standards in the colonies. Thus economic development after
independence became an objective of policy not only because of the humanitarian desire to raise living
standards but also because political promises had been made, and failure to make progress toward
development would, it was feared, be interpreted as a failure of the independence movement.

Effect of Global Divide

1. Economic disparities

A. Income-inequality between north and south

- North regions have higher average incomes and greater wealth.
- South regions face lower incomes and widespread poverty.
- Income inequality is a fundamental driver of the global economic divide.
 B. Trade Imbalances
- North regions have higher average incomes and greater wealth.
- South regions face lower incomes and widespread poverty.
- Income inequality is a fundamental driver of the global economic divide.
C. Access to resources
- Access to critical resources like energy, water, and minerals varies significantly.
- The North generally has better resource access.
- The South often faces resource scarcity, leading to unequal development opportunities.

2. Social and Cultural Differences

A. Educational and literacy rates

In the North, higher literacy rates and more accessible education systems, while in the South, limited
access to education due to poverty, inadequate schools, and cultural barriers, resulting in lower literacy rates.
B. Healthcare disparities

In the North, better healthcare infrastructure, well-trained medical professionals, and advanced
technologies lead to higher life expectancy, while In the South, less developed healthcare infrastructure and
limited access to healthcare result in shorter life expectancy, often due to economic challenges.

C. Cultural Differences

Culture shapes societal norms in both North and South. In the South, traditional cultural norms can affect
gender equality, education, and healthcare choices. In the North, there’s a greater emphasis on gender
equality and individual rights, with evolving cultural norms towards inclusivity and diversity.

3. Political and Geopolitical Factors

A. Influence of superpowers
Global Superpowers defined as state which are powerful on the global stage, both explicitly
through their role in global institutions such as UN and implicity through their influence. This section
discusses the rolw of major global superpowers such as the United States, China and Russia in
shaping international politics and how their influence impacts the North and South global divide.

The economic policies and trade agreements of superpowers can affect the economic
relationships between North and South countries influencing disparities in income and resources.
The total wealth of the world is 280 trillion. The global north is controlling the 80% total income of
the world. Inversely, the global South only controlling the 20% total income of the world.

Global North

- Economy: Industries and major businesses, commerce and finance

- Textiles, lumber clothing, machinery, leather and wooden goods.

- Railroad constructions

Global South

- Source of the raw materials of the North

- Cotton production
 - Depended entirely on cotton and agricultures

B. Conflicts and their impacts

This part explores conflicts that arise between regions such as the Middle East or Africa can disrupt
trade, displace populations, hinder development efforts, or consequences for economic, social and political
aspects.

The idea of categorizing countries by their economic and developmental status began during the Cold
War with the classification of East and West.

Countries can be classified into 3 types

1. Most Developed Countries (MDC’s)
2. Less Developed Countries (LDC’s)
3. Least Developed Countries (LLDC’s
There are reasons why there is a conflict on each regions;
1. Colonialism – many countries became poor because they exploited of the richest countries.
2. Trade
3. Debt

C. Role of international organization

Based on the study the United Nations has also established its role in diminishing the divide
between North and South through the Millennium Development Goals, all of which were to be achieved
by 2015. These goals seek to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger, achieve global universal
education and healthcare, promote gender equality and empower women, reduce child mortality,
improve maternal health, combat HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases, ensure environmental
sustainability, and develop a global partnership for development. There were replaced in 2015 by 17
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs, set in 2015 by the United Nations General
Assembly and Intended to be achieved by the year 2030, are part of a UN Resolution called “The 2030
Agenda”.

4. Environmental Concern
A. Climate change and its effects

Introduction
2020 was the warmest year on record, and human economic activities are the main cause of global warming.
Different countries have contributed different amounts to greenhouse gas emissions over time.

The wealthiest countries are responsible for half of all carbon emissions since the Industrial Revolution. Their
lifestyles produce 100 times more emissions than those of the poorest countries. In 2019, the top 10% of
global emitters (771 million individuals) were responsible for about 48% of global CO2 emissions, while the
bottom 50% (3.8 billion individuals) were responsible for almost 12% of all emissions.

The ecological crisis brings global inequalities to the surface

Climate change impacts are not uniform across the globe, with the poorest countries being the most
vulnerable. This is due to existing inequalities that put these countries at a disadvantage. Climate change
widens these inequalities, driving more people into poverty.
Climate change deepens within-country inequalities, hitting the poorest communities, BIPOC, women, and
children hardest. Smallholder farmers provide up to 75% of the food supply in developing countries but are
undermined by climate-related disasters. Indigenous environmental defenders are often exposed to the most
direct adverse effects of climate change and face extreme violent attacks for defending their home and the
planet. In 2020, 227 environmental and land defenders were killed in the Global South.

The need for more active inclusion of Global South actors and voices

The Global South and the Global North face different climate realities, with the Global South having less
capacity and resources to adapt. Recognizing these differences and the different responsibilities based on
historic pollution is essential to addressing the climate crisis.

 We need to reconsider history and decolonize the climate narrative. This means recognizing that
climate change is a result of colonialism and that we need to challenge the modern idea of economic
progress that harms the environment.
 We need to actively include the voices of the Global South in climate discussions.
 While we cannot undo historic pollution, we can focus on dealing with climate change in a more
inclusive and equitable manner.
 Every action counts, from increasing the representation of Global South authors in climate research to
opening debates on production patterns and changing your consumption patterns.

What small step can you begin with today?

 Educate yourself about climate change and its impacts.

 Support businesses and organizations that are working to address climate change.
 Make changes to your own lifestyle to reduce your carbon footprint.

Environmental Policy

I. Historical context

 Developed countries in the North have historically been responsible for the majority of global
greenhouse gas emissions.
 They have also benefited from the exploitation of natural resources in the South.

Impact of environmental policy on the global divide

 Environmental policy has often exacerbated the global divide by:

o Allowing developed countries to continue polluting while providing inadequate financial
assistance to developing countries to help them reduce their emissions and adapt to climate
change.
o Protecting the economic interests of developed countries at the expense of developing
countries, e.g., through trade agreements with environmental provisions that make it difficult for
developing countries to export their products.
III. Examples of specific environmental policies that have affected the global divide
  Climate change finance: Developed countries have pledged to provide $100 billion per year to
developing countries to help them mitigate climate change and adapt to its impacts. However, this
pledge has not yet been met.
 Technology transfer: Developed countries have also pledged to transfer climate-friendly technologies to
developing countries. However, this transfer has been slow and inadequate.
 Trade and environment: Trade agreements often contain environmental provisions that make it difficult
for developing countries to export their products to developed countries. This can hinder their economic
development and make it more difficult for them to address environmental problems.
 Environmental dumping: Developed countries sometimes export their hazardous waste to developing
countries, where it is often disposed of in an unsafe and environmentally damaging manner.
 Access to natural resources: Developed countries often have privileged access to natural resources in
developing countries. This can lead to deforestation, water pollution, and other environmental problems
in developing countries.

IV. Conclusion

 The global divide between North and South is not static. Developing countries are becoming
increasingly aware of their environmental rights and are demanding greater equity in environmental
policy.
 It is important to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve sustainable development.


B. Resource depletion and environmental degration

I. Historical context

 Developed countries in the North have historically consumed more resources than developing
countries in the South.
 They have also benefited from the exploitation of natural resources in the South.
 This has made developing countries disproportionately affected by the negative impacts of
resource degradation.

II. Impact of resource degradation on the global divide

 Resource degradation has a significant impact on the global divide by:

o Reducing food security in developing countries.
o Negatively impacting human health in developing countries.
o Leading to conflict and instability in developing countries.

III. Specific examples of how resource degradation has affected the global divide

 Land degradation
 Water pollution
 Air pollution
  Natural resource extraction

IV. Conclusion

 The global divide between North and South is not static. Developing countries are becoming
increasingly aware of the importance of protecting their natural resources and are taking steps
to address resource degradation.
 However, developing countries need support from developed countries in order to achieve this.

Efforts to the Bridge of Divide

A. Foreign aid and development programs:

Foreign aid from Northern countries to the South, along with development programs. Is aimed at
reducing economic and social disparities. These initiatives provide financial assistance and expertise to help
less developed regions.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) works with countries around the world to
implement development projects in areas such as healthcare, education, and sustainable economic growth.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) . It provides foreign aid to support
economic development, disaster relief, and health initiatives in various countries.
B. Global initiatives and organizations:

Various international initiatives and organizations, like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and
Non-Governmental Organization (NGOs), work towards reducing the global divide by addressing poverty,
education, healthcare, and other critical issues on a global scale.

Non-Governmental organization (NGOs)- voluntary group of individuals or organizations, usually not

affiliated with any government, that is formed to provide services or to advocate a public policy.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)- the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future
for all. They address the global challenges we face, including those related to poverty, inequality, climate
change, environmental degradation, peace and justice. The 17 Goals are all interconnected, and in order to
leave no one behind, it is important that we achieve them all by 2030.

Goal 1: No poverty

Goal 2: Zero hunger

Goal 3: Good health and well-being

Goal 4: Quality education

Goal 5: Gender equality

Goal 6: Clean water and sanitation

Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy

Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth

Goal 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Goal 10: Reduced inequalities

Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities

Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production

Goal 13: Climate action

Goal 14: Life below water

Goal 15: Life on land

Goal 16: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Goal 17: Partnerships for the goals

C. Grassroots and community- level initiatives:

At the local level, grassroots organizations and community driven projects play a role in bridging the
divide. These initiatives address speaks challenges faced by communities in the South and aim to empower
individuals and local groups to improve their living conditions.

UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)- was established and given the mandate to
support economic development in countries of the Global South and push for a more just and rational
international economic order.

Assist developing countries, particularly the least developed countries, and countries in transition in
generating trade-supporting services such as customs, transportation, banking and insurance,
telecommunications or business information which are adapted to their particular requirements, with a
particular focus on services

addressing the needs of micro, small and medium-sized enterprise sectors”

These examples demonstrate how foreign aid, NGOs, and regional initiatives play essential roles in
bridging the global North-South divide by addressing various socioeconomic challenges.

VII. FUTURE OUTLOOK

A. Trends in global development on the global division of North and South:

Anticipated changes in the way the world develops, including economic growth, technology, and
geopolitics, which will affect the North-South global divide.

B. Potential solutions and challenges on the global divide: North and the South:

Possible ways to reduce the disparities between the North and the South, along with the difficulties and
obstacles that may be faced.

C. The role of technology and innovation in the global divide: North and the South:
 The impact of technological advancements and innovation on narrowing or widening the global divide
between the North and the South.

Summary/Conclusion

The two groups are often defined in terms of their differing levels of wealth, economic development,
income inequality, democracy, and political and economic freedom, as defined by freedom indices. States that
are generally seen as part of the Global North tend to be wealthier and less unequal.