The 3-way tug of war between globalisation, national sovereignty, and democracy presents a complex bargain that continues to shape international relations and domestic politics. While globalisation has become an irreversible force in our modern world, its compatibility with fundamental principles of sovereignty and democratic governance remains a subject of intense debate.

Champions of globalisation, including myself, highlight its potential to strengthen national sovereignty through economic empowerment. As nations engage in international trade and investment, they gain access to resources that can enhance their capacity to provide essential services and develop infrastructure. Resources markets, including labour, which they would otherwise not have access to. This economic foundation, in turn, contributes to national stability and autonomy. Additionally, the global flow of information enabled by technological advancement serves to enrich democratic discourse, allowing citizens to engage more meaningfully in political processes and institutions.

However, critics raise valid concerns about globalisation's impact on national sovereignty, particularly in the context of developing nations (Jotia, 2011). The growing influence of international organizations and multinational corporations can constrain national policy-making autonomy. This can weaken citizens influence in government decision making. This is evident in the economic liberalisation requirements imposed by institutions like the WTO, which nations must accept to participate in the global economic system (Moxon, 2019). Moreover, the widening economic disparities within countries, often attributed to globalisation, can undermine democratic principles by concentrating power in the hands of economic elites. Importantly, even the perception of this imbalance can push nations to dangerous populism.

The debate extends beyond economic considerations to encompass cultural dimensions. Critics point to the phenomenon of cultural homogenization, where dominant global cultures potentially erode local traditions and values (Halbi, 2004). This cultural convergence raises questions about the preservation of national identities and the maintenance of diverse, representative democratic institutions.

Nevertheless, globalization has a crucial role in facilitating international cooperation on pressing global challenges. Issues such as climate change, terrorism, cross border violence, and public health require coordinated responses that transcend national boundaries. From this perspective, globalization strengthens not weakens democratic nations by enabling collective action on shared problems and giving say to nations who would otherwise be ignored. How nations continue to balance this in a more contentious world remains to be seen.