Glossary
Environmental Degradation
The deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources, destruction of ecosystems, and pollution, often a side effect of rapid economic development.
Example:
The widespread deforestation in the Amazon rainforest for agricultural expansion is a significant form of environmental degradation that impacts global climate patterns.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
An investment made by a company or individual from one country into business interests located in another country.
Example:
A German car manufacturer building a new factory in Mexico is an example of Foreign Direct Investment, bringing capital and jobs to the host country.
Globalization
The increasing interconnectedness of the world through the flow of goods, services, capital, people, and ideas across national borders.
Example:
The global spread of pop music and fashion trends through social media platforms is a clear illustration of globalization in action.
Multinational Corporations (MNCs)
Companies that own or control production of goods or services in more than one country.
Example:
Coca-Cola, with bottling plants and sales operations in nearly every country worldwide, is a classic example of a Multinational Corporation.
Political and Economic Pressures
The use of diplomatic, financial, or trade-related leverage by one country or international body to influence the policies or actions of another country.
Example:
When a group of countries imposes trade sanctions on a nation due to its human rights record, they are exerting political and economic pressures to compel policy change.
Sovereignty
A country's power to rule itself without outside interference, signifying its independence and control over its own affairs.
Example:
When a nation decides its own tax rates and educational curriculum without approval from any other country, it demonstrates its sovereignty.
United Nations (UN)
An international organization founded in 1945 to promote international cooperation and maintain peace and security among nations.
Example:
Nations often bring disputes over territorial claims to the United Nations to seek a peaceful resolution and uphold international law.