Globalisation, technology threats to international security

The security implications of globalisation and the threat of terrorism are closely connected to the revolution in communications, according to Professor Sam Makinda from the School of Politics and International Studies.

Professor Makinda, currently on sabbatical at Oxford University, has been investigating a range of security issues with strong relevance to the fight against global terrorism.

During his sabbatical, planned long before the September 11 events, Professor Makinda looked at globalisation and inequality, as well as its political, social, economic and security underpinnings.

“There is no doubt that globalisation has brought enormous benefits to a large part of the world,” said Professor Makinda.

“However, the forces of globalisation have also caused disaffection, disillu-sionment and alienation, thereby breeding resentment among some groups.

“For example, innovations in science and technology have brought about huge improvements in medicine, agriculture, office work and life in general, but these same innovations, including the technology to manufacture chemical and biological weapons, are accessible to individuals, groups and states that seek to disrupt societies.”

Professor Makinda has worked on the relationship between globalisation and security at Murdoch University since 1998.