The global north and south are categories used to describe the uneven distribution of wealth, resources, and power across the world. The global north comprises the wealthy industrialized nations in the northern hemisphere, including the United States, Canada, Western Europe, and Japan. On the other hand, the global south includes countries with lower levels of economic development and lower standards of living, primarily in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
The relationship between the global north and south has long-lasting effects on the global economy and politics. Here are some ways how:
1. Economic Dominance: The global north dominates the world economy, controlling most of the world's financial resources. This control allows them to influence the rules of international trade and investment to their advantage, hindering economic development in the global south.
2. Exploitation of Resources: As a result of economic dominance, the global north often exploits the natural resources of the global south. This leads to environmental degradation and further economic inequality.
3. Political Influence: The global north holds significant political influence in world affairs. They use this power to shape global policies that further their interests, leading to a lack of representation and voice for the global south.
4. Migration: Poverty, unemployment, conflict, and environmental degradation in the global south have led to large-scale migration to the global north, where labor is in demand. This migration further fuels the economic growth of the global north and often leads to social and cultural tensions.
In summary, the unequal distribution of resources and power between the global north and south has significant impacts on the global economy and politics, perpetuating global inequality and poverty.