11.4 Transnational activism and global governance institutions
5 min read•july 30, 2024
Transnational activism has reshaped global governance, pushing for change on issues like human rights and climate change. These movements use diverse tactics, from to protests, to influence international policies and norms.
Despite challenges like and , transnational activists have successfully shaped global agreements and mainstreamed important issues. Their work has strengthened civil society and promoted in global governance.
Transnational Social Movements
Emergence and Growth
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- Transnational social movements are networks of activists and organizations that operate across national borders to address global issues and challenges
- The growth of transnational social movements has been facilitated by advances in communication technologies, increased global interconnectedness, and the recognition of shared global problems
- Transnational social movements often emerge in response to perceived failures or limitations of existing global governance structures to address pressing global issues effectively
- Key examples of transnational social movements include the environmental movement (), human rights movement (), women's movement (), and the ()
Organizational Structures and Composition
- Transnational activist networks are composed of diverse actors, including NGOs, grassroots organizations, advocacy groups, and individual activists, working collaboratively across borders
- The organizational structures of transnational social movements are often decentralized, flexible, and based on horizontal networks rather than hierarchical leadership
- Transnational social movements leverage the expertise, resources, and local knowledge of their diverse members to address complex global challenges
- The networked structure allows for rapid mobilization, information sharing, and coordination of actions across different countries and regions
Strategies for Global Influence
Advocacy and Public Awareness
- Transnational social movements employ a range of strategies to influence global governance institutions, including advocacy, lobbying, , and
- Advocacy and lobbying involve engaging directly with policymakers and decision-makers within global governance institutions to promote specific policy changes or reforms
- Public awareness campaigns aim to educate and mobilize public opinion around global issues, generating pressure on global governance institutions to take action
- Transnational social movements use various communication channels, such as social media, documentaries, and public events, to raise awareness and build support for their causes
Coalition Building and Knowledge Production
- Transnational social movements often seek to build coalitions and alliances with like-minded organizations and movements to amplify their influence and leverage collective action
- They engage in knowledge production and dissemination, generating alternative narratives and expertise to challenge dominant discourses and influence policy debates
- Transnational social movements collaborate with academic institutions, think tanks, and research organizations to produce credible evidence and policy recommendations
- They strategically use media and communication technologies to raise awareness, mobilize support, and coordinate actions across borders
Direct Action and Disruptive Tactics
- Direct action strategies, such as protests, demonstrations, and , are used to disrupt the status quo and draw attention to the demands of transnational social movements
- Transnational social movements organize global days of action, coordinated protests, and symbolic actions to create a sense of solidarity and collective power
- They target high-profile events, such as international conferences and summits, to gain media attention and pressure decision-makers
- Direct action tactics can also include , occupations, and creative forms of to challenge the legitimacy of dominant institutions and practices
Impact on Global Norms
Shaping International Agreements and Standards
- Transnational activism has played a significant role in shaping global norms, policies, and practices across various issue areas, such as human rights, environmental protection, and social justice
- Transnational social movements have successfully advocated for the adoption of international treaties, conventions, and agreements that establish global norms and standards
- Examples include the Rome Statute of the , the on climate change, and the
- Transnational social movements engage in long-term advocacy and lobbying efforts to influence the negotiation and implementation of these international instruments
Mainstreaming Issues and Principles
- Transnational activism has contributed to the mainstreaming of certain issues and principles within global governance institutions, such as , , and
- Transnational social movements have pressured global governance institutions to adopt more inclusive and participatory decision-making processes, increasing the representation of marginalized voices and perspectives
- They have successfully pushed for the integration of cross-cutting issues, such as human rights and environmental sustainability, into the policies and practices of international organizations
- Transnational social movements have also influenced the practices of private actors, such as multinational corporations, through campaigns targeting their social and environmental impact and demanding greater accountability
Diffusion of Norms and Strengthening Civil Society
- The impact of transnational activism can be seen in the diffusion of norms and best practices across countries and regions, as well as in the strengthening of global civil society
- Transnational social movements facilitate the exchange of ideas, strategies, and resources among activists and organizations working on similar issues in different contexts
- They contribute to the development of a shared language, identity, and sense of purpose among civil society actors across borders
- Transnational activism has helped to create a more vibrant and interconnected global civil society, capable of mobilizing collective action and holding power-holders accountable
Challenges of Global Engagement
Power Imbalances and Limited Access
- Transnational social movements face various challenges and limitations in their efforts to influence global governance structures effectively
- Power imbalances between transnational social movements and powerful states or corporate actors can limit the ability of activists to shape global policies and practices
- The lack of formal decision-making power and limited access to official channels of influence within global governance institutions can hinder the impact of transnational activism
- Transnational social movements often struggle to gain a seat at the table and have their voices heard in high-level policy discussions and negotiations
Resource Constraints and Internal Tensions
- Transnational social movements often struggle with resource constraints, including limited funding, staff, and organizational capacity, which can affect their ability to sustain long-term campaigns and engagement
- Differences in priorities, strategies, and ideologies among diverse actors within transnational social movements can lead to internal tensions and difficulties in building cohesive coalitions
- The complex and multi-layered nature of global governance structures can make it challenging for transnational social movements to navigate and influence decision-making processes effectively
- Transnational social movements must balance the need for unity and coordination with the autonomy and diversity of their constituent organizations and activists
Resistance and Lack of Accountability
- Resistance from powerful actors, such as states or corporations, who may perceive transnational activism as a threat to their interests or sovereignty, can undermine the impact of social movements
- Some governments may restrict the activities of transnational social movements, limit their access to resources, or engage in repression and intimidation of activists
- The lack of accountability and enforcement mechanisms within global governance institutions can limit the ability of transnational social movements to hold actors accountable for their commitments and actions
- Transnational social movements must find ways to leverage public pressure, media attention, and reputational costs to hold powerful actors accountable in the absence of formal enforcement mechanisms
Key Terms to Review (29)
Accountability: Accountability refers to the obligation of individuals or organizations to explain their actions and decisions to stakeholders, ensuring they can be held responsible for outcomes. In the context of various activities like resource management, ethical lobbying practices, governmental relationships, and global activism, accountability fosters trust and integrity by ensuring that actions align with declared goals and standards.
Advocacy networks: Advocacy networks are collaborative groups of individuals and organizations that come together to promote specific causes or influence public policy. These networks often leverage collective resources, knowledge, and social connections to advocate for change, mobilize grassroots support, and establish coalitions aimed at addressing social issues and shaping political agendas.
Amnesty International: Amnesty International is a global non-governmental organization focused on human rights advocacy, established in 1961 to combat injustices and promote the protection of individuals from abuses. By mobilizing public pressure and influencing policymakers, it operates within various cultural contexts, transcending borders to address issues such as torture, freedom of expression, and the rights of refugees. The organization's work illustrates the impact of social movements in shaping public policy and the interconnectedness of transnational activism in an increasingly globalized world.
Boycotts: Boycotts are collective actions taken by individuals or groups to abstain from purchasing or using products, services, or engaging with organizations to express opposition or bring about social or political change. This tactic is often employed in activism to raise awareness and exert economic pressure on companies or governments, aiming to influence their practices or policies. Boycotts can be local, national, or even international in scope, reflecting the interconnectedness of social movements and global governance institutions.
Civil disobedience: Civil disobedience is the active, professed refusal to obey certain laws, demands, or commands of a government or occupying power, typically as a peaceful form of protest against unjust policies. This concept connects deeply to grassroots mobilization, where individuals come together to challenge systemic injustices, often through coordinated efforts. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in protest movements and direct actions, where individuals engage in nonviolent resistance to advocate for social change. Civil disobedience has also been significant in transnational activism, influencing global governance institutions to address human rights violations and promote justice across borders. Lastly, analyzing civil disobedience across different movements helps to compare strategies and outcomes, shedding light on its effectiveness in achieving social objectives.
Corporate Social Responsibility: Corporate social responsibility (CSR) refers to the ethical obligation of businesses to contribute positively to society and the environment while balancing profit-making with social good. This concept encourages companies to act in ways that benefit their stakeholders, including employees, customers, communities, and the planet, ultimately promoting sustainable development and ethical practices in business operations.
Direct action: Direct action refers to the use of immediate and confrontational tactics to achieve social or political goals, bypassing traditional forms of negotiation or influence. This approach often includes protests, sit-ins, strikes, and other forms of civil disobedience aimed at raising awareness or forcing change.
Gender equality: Gender equality refers to the state in which individuals of all genders have equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities in all aspects of life, including economic, social, cultural, and political domains. This concept emphasizes the need for fairness and justice, ensuring that gender does not determine one’s access to resources or decision-making power. Gender equality is essential for sustainable development and is closely tied to human rights and social justice.
Global environmentalism: Global environmentalism refers to a social and political movement that seeks to address environmental issues on a worldwide scale, advocating for sustainable practices and the protection of the planet. This movement recognizes that environmental challenges, such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, transcend national borders and require collective action through international cooperation. It often involves grassroots activism, transnational networks, and engagement with global governance institutions to influence policies and promote environmental justice.
Global justice movement: The global justice movement is a broad and diverse coalition of social movements and advocacy groups that seek to address issues of inequality, human rights, and social justice on a global scale. This movement challenges the existing power structures created by globalization, particularly those related to economic policies, trade agreements, and environmental degradation, and advocates for a more equitable and just world. By uniting various local and transnational efforts, the global justice movement aims to influence policy decisions and promote human rights at both national and international levels.
Glocalization: Glocalization refers to the simultaneous occurrence of global and local processes, where global influences are adapted to fit local contexts. This concept highlights how cultural, economic, and political phenomena are transformed through local customs, practices, and identities while still maintaining a connection to broader global trends. It emphasizes that while globalization spreads ideas and practices worldwide, these are often modified or reinterpreted at the local level.
Greenpeace: Greenpeace is a non-governmental environmental organization founded in 1971, known for its direct action, lobbying, and research to advocate for environmental protection and sustainability. The organization has played a pivotal role in the global environmental movement by raising awareness on issues such as climate change, deforestation, overfishing, and pollution, connecting grassroots activism with global campaigns that influence public policy and international agreements.
Human rights advocacy: Human rights advocacy refers to the efforts and activities aimed at promoting and protecting the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to all individuals, regardless of nationality, sex, ethnicity, or religion. This advocacy often involves raising awareness, influencing public opinion, and pressuring governments or organizations to comply with international human rights standards. It plays a crucial role in transnational activism, as advocates work across borders to address injustices and collaborate with global governance institutions.
International Criminal Court: The International Criminal Court (ICC) is a permanent tribunal established to prosecute individuals for crimes such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. It operates under the Rome Statute, which was adopted in 1998 and came into force in 2002, representing a significant advancement in global governance and accountability for serious international offenses.
Kofi Annan: Kofi Annan was a Ghanaian diplomat who served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 to 2006. He was the first sub-Saharan African to hold this position and played a pivotal role in promoting global peace, development, and human rights during his tenure, significantly impacting transnational activism and global governance institutions.
Lobbying: Lobbying is the act of attempting to influence the decisions of government officials, particularly legislators and regulators, on behalf of a group or organization. It plays a crucial role in shaping public policy and legislation, allowing interest groups and social movements to advocate for their specific goals and needs.
Naomi Klein: Naomi Klein is a prominent Canadian author, journalist, and activist known for her critical views on globalization, capitalism, and corporate power. Her influential works, such as 'No Logo' and 'This Changes Everything,' address the impacts of neoliberal policies on social movements and environmental issues, linking her ideas to broader conversations about transnational activism and global governance institutions.
Networked activism: Networked activism refers to the use of digital technologies, particularly the internet and social media, to organize, mobilize, and coordinate collective action for social change. This form of activism is characterized by its decentralized structure, allowing individuals and groups to connect and collaborate across geographical boundaries, share information rapidly, and amplify their messages to a broader audience. It plays a crucial role in transnational movements and enhances the effectiveness of campaigns directed at global governance institutions.
Paris Agreement: The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty aimed at addressing climate change and limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It was adopted by nearly all countries in 2015 at the COP21 climate conference in Paris and represents a crucial effort in transnational activism and global governance. The agreement relies on nations setting their own climate action plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which reflects a collaborative approach to environmental protection.
Power imbalances: Power imbalances refer to the unequal distribution of power among individuals or groups, which can significantly affect decision-making processes and access to resources. These imbalances can lead to marginalized voices being overlooked, often impacting the effectiveness of coalition building and the dynamics within transnational activism. Addressing power imbalances is crucial for ensuring equitable participation and representation in social movements and governance.
Public awareness campaigns: Public awareness campaigns are organized efforts designed to inform and engage the public on specific issues, aiming to change attitudes or behaviors. These campaigns often use various communication strategies, including advertising, social media, and community outreach, to reach a broad audience and create a sense of urgency around the cause.
Resistance: Resistance refers to the opposition or pushback against established systems, practices, or authority, often manifesting in social movements or activism. It plays a crucial role in challenging injustices and advocating for change, especially in the context of transnational activism and global governance institutions where various groups unite across borders to contest policies that threaten human rights, environmental sustainability, and social equity.
Resource constraints: Resource constraints refer to the limitations that organizations, groups, or movements face regarding the availability of financial, human, and material resources necessary to achieve their goals. These constraints can significantly impact the effectiveness and reach of public interest and citizen groups as they strive to advocate for policy changes or mobilize support. Similarly, in transnational activism, resource constraints may hinder the ability to coordinate efforts across borders, limiting engagement with global governance institutions.
Sustainable development: Sustainable development is a holistic approach to growth that seeks to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This concept balances economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity, aiming for a harmonious coexistence among these elements. It plays a crucial role in transnational activism and global governance institutions by promoting policies that support long-term ecological balance and social justice.
UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is a comprehensive international instrument adopted by the United Nations in 2007, aimed at protecting the rights and cultures of indigenous peoples worldwide. This declaration recognizes their rights to self-determination, cultural preservation, and land, among other fundamental aspects, and emphasizes the importance of global cooperation in addressing the unique challenges faced by indigenous communities.
United Nations: The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945 to promote peace, security, and cooperation among countries. It serves as a platform for dialogue and collective action on global issues, including human rights, development, and environmental challenges, making it a central player in transnational activism and global governance.
Women's march global: The women's march global refers to a series of international protests that advocate for women's rights and equality, originally ignited by the Women's March on Washington in January 2017. These marches have united diverse groups across countries, emphasizing issues such as reproductive rights, gender-based violence, and systemic inequality, creating a powerful transnational movement for social change.
World Social Forum: The World Social Forum (WSF) is a global gathering that serves as a platform for social movements, non-governmental organizations, and activists to discuss and promote alternative approaches to globalization and socio-economic issues. It was founded in 2001 as a counter-event to the World Economic Forum, emphasizing the importance of democratic participation, social justice, and environmental sustainability. The WSF fosters dialogue and collaboration among diverse groups, aiming to create a space for collective action against neoliberal policies.
World Trade Organization: The World Trade Organization (WTO) is an international organization that regulates trade between nations, aiming to ensure that trade flows as smoothly, predictably, and freely as possible. It plays a crucial role in shaping global trade policies, mediating trade disputes, and providing a forum for negotiations, thus linking transnational activism and global governance institutions.