Climate - True Globalisation Priority

We increasingly debate the merits of Globalisation versus Nationalisation.

It is politically popular to chase electoral success by promoting the prioritising of National interests. Realistically, no Government will prosper if it does not put National interests first, however the realities of being a part of a wider world order generally benefit National interests. Think trade for example.

 
The election of Donald Trump was on the back of the “Make America Great Again” mantra combined with blaming his various predecessors’ involvement in Global matters as the reason for middle America's challenges.

The Brexit result was also largely due to the perception particularly by the Baby Boomers of  Britain’s challenges being due to being a part of free European markets and the free flow of people across borders.

 

In France, a similar message from Marine Le Pen appealed to the former Industrial areas in the North, propelling her to the final run off for the Presidency.

The signing of the Paris climate accord was an example of Globalisation. It was the coming together of world leaders to make a collective agreement to reduce carbon emissions.

Significantly, the major industrial countries agreed to emission reductions for the benefit of all the world. They did so in the knowledge that if there is not a bipartisan approach Domestically, signing the accord may not be popular.

To gain a local political benefit. President Trump withdrew the United States from the accord, and celebrated doing so with a visit to the coal producing regions of America. Part of his argument is a requirement to prioritise National interests first and Global interests second.

Surely it is in all Leaders' National interests that the the number one Global issue be emissions control.

The impact of emissions (climate change deniers excepted) cannot be contained nationally. Carbon released in one part of the world effects another. Pollutants released in to Oceans impact all Countries with shorelines exposed to that Ocean. Noxious emissions in one country settle on agriculture in another via rain.

We can take a singular short-term approach Nationally; all countries can. But equally, all countries will pay a price.

We all have a National issue requiring absolute Globalisation.