Making Globalization Socially Sustainable

There is a shared sense that globalization is a powerful engine that has already contributed to lifting many out of poverty and that, if properly harnessed, could further promote growth and development to the benefit of all. For many years, however, concerns have been raised regarding certain effects of globalization on jobs, wages and job insecurity. The employment effects of offshoring, the impact of trade on inequality in both developed and developing countries, the persistence of a large informal economy in developing countries, or the perceived increase in job insecurity have all figured prominently in the public debate. Globalization has also been blamed for the recent financial crisis and its effects on employment. In this context, a number of observers have come to question the sustainability of globalization from a social point of view. If globalization is perceived as a source of insecurity for many and a source of benefit only for the happy few, it will no doubt generate resistance. As a result, calls for a more inclusive globalization have become more frequent, but only few concrete proposals have been put forward. The objective of this joint book project is to contribute to the elaboration of relevant policy proposals. The papers in the volume analyze the various channels through which globalization affects jobs and wages and examine whether and how trade and employment policies should be accommodated to make globalization socially sustainable.

Project symbol

GLO/10/03/ICC

Admin unit

ED/EMP/MSU

Start date

17/05/2010

End date

31/10/2011

Total allocation

129942

Total expenditure

Status

Closed

129942

Development Partners

International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Research Foundation

Country/Countries

Global

Outcomes

Employment Promotion