Globalization at a Crossroads: Balancing Economic Integration with National Sovereignty
- Chukwuemeka Steve Abiakam
- DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.14993885
- ISA Journal of Business, Economics and Management (ISAJBEM)
Globalization has significantly reshaped the global economic, political, and social landscape, fostering unprecedented levels of interconnectedness. However, this integration comes with complex challenges, particularly for developing nations striving to balance the benefits of global engagement with the preservation of national sovereignty. This study examines the dynamic relationship between economic integration and sovereignty, with a specific focus on Nigeria—a resource-dependent economy heavily integrated into global oil markets. Drawing on theoretical frameworks such as liberalism, dependency theory, and embedded liberalism, the research explores the opportunities and vulnerabilities associated with globalization. It critiques the asymmetrical benefits of global economic integration, highlighting how structural inequalities and institutional weaknesses constrain Nigeria’s ability to assert its sovereignty in global governance. Furthermore, the study identifies gaps in existing literature, including the underrepresentation of resource-dependent economies in globalization discourse and the limited exploration of strategies to balance globalization with domestic development. Through an interdisciplinary approach, this research emphasizes the urgent need for Nigeria to diversify its economy, strengthen institutions, and adopt policies that mitigate globalization’s risks while maximizing its benefits. The findings contribute to the broader understanding of globalization’s evolving dynamics and offer actionable insights for developing nations navigating the crossroads of economic integration and sovereignty.