By: Michael Slackman
Published: March 3, 2007
This article is about the changes taking place in Libya. The leader of Libya is Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi, who seized power in a military coup 37 years ago. He is known for his staunch anti-Western attitude, but that may be changing. Qaddafi once banned everything from Western music to teaching English in schools. He has been condemned by Washington for supporting terrorism. However, he has recently spoken of opening Libya to the globalizing world.
“Undoubtedly Libya is part of this changing world dominated by globalization,” he said during a rare discussion with reporters. “Libya is riding this wave, taking this and that. Libya cannot row against the current.”
Libya is the richest country in North Africa because of its oil reserves, but its schools, hospitals and infrastructure are in serious disrepair, according to consultants brought in to study the country and draft a plan for change.
This is starling news from a man who has been so adamantly opposed to Western ideas in the past. However, it is another example of the power of globalization. It cannot be ignored by world leaders. Countries who accept that globalization is the future are prospering like China and India. In contrast, countries who are refusing to make change are suffering isolation and economic stagnation like North Korea.
1 comment:
When I read your summary all I could think of was Friedman. First, Libya's leader has realized that their country can no longer prosper without giving into globilization. Also your summary boasts of the "Dutch Disease" as Friedman describes it in the "First Law of Petropolitcs". A rich country dependant on their natural resources with a weak state infastructure.
Friedman is EVERYWHERE!!!!
Post a Comment