Triggers and Barriers of Globalisation, Key Factors, Impact

Published on 18 September 2025 by
Triggers and Barriers of Globalisation

Globalisation is the process of increasing interconnection and interdependence among nations in terms of economy, politics, culture, and technology. It has transformed how goods, services, information, and people move across borders. While globalisation creates opportunities for growth, innovation, and cooperation, it is not a one-way process. It is shaped by both triggers and barriers of globalisation; factors that accelerate integration and those that restrict or slow it down. Understanding these triggers and barriers is essential for exam aspirants because they explain why globalisation progresses unevenly across regions and time periods.

Triggers of Globalisation

The triggers of globalisation are the underlying factors that promote global integration. These drivers make countries more connected and dependent on one another. They can be economic, technological, political, or socio-cultural in nature. Each of these triggers has played a crucial role in speeding up globalisation in the modern era.

Economic Triggers

Economic factors are often the most visible triggers of globalisation because they directly impact trade, investment, and growth. As countries liberalise their economies and open up to global markets, integration becomes faster.

  • Trade liberalisation, through the reduction of tariffs and quotas, has allowed goods and services to flow freely across borders. For example, India’s economic reforms of 1991 opened its markets to foreign investments and imports.
  • The rise of multinational corporations (MNCs) has encouraged cross-border investment and the spread of production networks. For instance, companies like Apple and Toyota rely on global supply chains for efficiency.
  • Global financial markets and institutions such as stock exchanges, IMF, and World Bank ensure real-time movement of capital, connecting economies instantly.

Technological Triggers

Technological progress has been one of the strongest forces behind globalisation. It reduces distance, increases speed, and makes global interaction easier.

  • The internet, mobile technology, and digital platforms have enabled instant communication and real-time transactions across continents. For example, platforms like Amazon and Alibaba connect buyers and sellers worldwide.
  • Innovations in transport such as container shipping, high-speed rail, and affordable air travel make it easier for goods and people to move across countries.
  • Growth of digital finance and e-commerce has transformed how trade is conducted, making it borderless and more accessible even to small businesses.
enrol in UPSC EPFO APFC Online coaching

Political Triggers

Political stability and cooperation among nations create the conditions for globalisation to thrive. International institutions and agreements reduce barriers and encourage collaboration.

  • Organisations like the World Trade Organization (WTO), International Monetary Fund (IMF), and World Bank promote trade facilitation and financial cooperation.
  • The end of the Cold War in the early 1990s reduced ideological barriers, opening Eastern Europe and other regions to global trade and investment.
  • Regional agreements such as the European Union (EU), North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), and ASEAN promote cross-border integration at regional levels.

Socio-Cultural Triggers

Social and cultural changes also play a significant role in making the world more interconnected. These changes increase acceptance and awareness of global integration.

  • Migration of people in search of work, education, or better living standards links countries culturally and economically. For instance, the Indian diaspora has created strong cultural and business ties between India and countries like the US and UK.
  • International tourism has grown rapidly, exposing people to different cultures and generating global awareness.
  • Media, movies, and entertainment industries spread cultural products globally, creating a sense of shared identity—for example, Hollywood films and K-pop music gaining worldwide popularity.

Barriers to Globalisation

While many factors push globalisation forward, several barriers prevent it from achieving its full potential. These barriers highlight the resistance faced due to economic inequality, political opposition, cultural differences, and environmental concerns. Understanding these barriers is crucial because they often explain why globalisation is uneven and contested.

Economic Barriers

Economic challenges often create serious obstacles to global integration.

  • Protectionist policies such as tariffs, import quotas, and subsidies aim to protect domestic industries from foreign competition. For example, the US-China trade war reflects the return of protectionism.
  • Inequality between developed and developing countries limits the benefits of globalisation. Developing nations often become dependent on advanced economies.
  • Currency fluctuations, debt crises, and trade imbalances create instability in international trade relations.

Political Barriers

Globalisation is often slowed down by political decisions and international conflicts.

  • The rise of nationalism and populism in many countries has created resistance to free trade and immigration. Brexit is a prime example where political will restricted integration.
  • Geopolitical tensions, wars, and sanctions often disrupt global supply chains and trade flows, as seen in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
  • Weaknesses in international institutions sometimes prevent them from resolving disputes effectively, reducing trust in global governance.
attempt UPSC EPFO APFC + EO/AO Mock tests

Socio-Cultural Barriers

Social and cultural differences sometimes act as invisible walls against globalisation.

  • Fear of cultural homogenisation makes societies resist foreign cultural influences, fearing loss of identity.
  • Migration often faces opposition due to xenophobia or concerns about job security, creating tensions in host countries.
  • Language barriers, religious differences, and cultural misunderstandings limit smooth communication and cooperation.

Environmental Barriers

Globalisation has major environmental consequences, and concerns about sustainability can act as barriers.

  • Climate change and rising pollution due to industrialisation have forced governments to impose stricter regulations on industries.
  • Global disagreements over sustainable development strategies often slow down international cooperation.
  • The demand for eco-friendly practices sometimes restricts trade and raises production costs.

Impact of Triggers and Barriers on Globalisation

The triggers and barriers of globalisation interact constantly to shape its pace and direction. When triggers are stronger, globalisation expands quickly, creating opportunities for growth and cooperation. On the other hand, when barriers dominate, the process slows down, becomes uneven, or even faces reversals. This balance explains why globalisation benefits some regions more than others.

Positive Impacts when Triggers Dominate

The positive impacts are:

  • Economic Growth: Trade liberalisation and foreign investment increase market access, boosting production and employment. For example, India’s IT sector flourished after liberalisation.
  • Cultural Exchange: Migration, tourism, and media spread cultural ideas and practices worldwide, enriching diversity.
  • Technological Innovation: Global competition pushes firms to innovate, leading to advancements in communication, healthcare, and transport.
  • Global Cooperation: International organisations like WTO or UN promote dialogue and problem-solving on issues such as trade disputes or health crises.
Attempt Sectional mock tests for UPSC EPFO APFC + EO/AO

Negative Impacts when Barriers Dominate

The negative impacts are:

  • Slowdown in Trade: Protectionist policies, tariffs, and quotas reduce the flow of goods and services, shrinking global markets.
  • Geopolitical Tensions: Wars, sanctions, or conflicts disrupt supply chains, as seen in the Russia-Ukraine war impacting global energy trade.
  • Unequal Benefits: Developing nations may fall behind due to inequality in resources, technology, and bargaining power.
  • Environmental Costs: Concerns over climate change and unsustainable practices restrict global industrial growth.

Balancing Globalisation

For globalisation to be sustainable and inclusive, there needs to be a balance between its triggers and barriers. Nations cannot ignore domestic concerns while pursuing global integration. Policies should therefore:

  • Promote fair trade practices that benefit both developed and developing nations.
  • Strengthen international institutions to resolve conflicts and build trust among nations.
  • Focus on sustainable development, ensuring that globalisation does not harm the environment.
  • Encourage cultural diversity while promoting openness to global ideas and innovations.

By balancing triggers and barriers of globalisation, countries can ensure that integration benefits a wider population while addressing its challenges effectively.

get UPSC EPFO Notes for exam preparation

FAQs on Triggers and Barriers of Globalisation

Q1: What are the main triggers of globalisation?
Ans: The main triggers include trade liberalisation, technological advancements, international institutions, and cultural exchanges that promote integration.

Q2: What are the major barriers to globalisation?
Ans: Barriers include protectionist policies, political conflicts, cultural resistance, and environmental concerns that limit global cooperation.

Q3: How do technological triggers promote globalisation?
Ans: Technology reduces distance and time through digital platforms, faster communication, and efficient transport, making cross-border interaction easier.

Q4: Why are political barriers significant in globalisation?
Ans: Political barriers like nationalism, conflicts, and weak governance hinder trust and cooperation, slowing the pace of global integration.

Q5: How can globalisation be balanced?
Ans: Balancing globalisation requires fair trade, sustainable development, strong institutions, and respect for cultural diversity.