Abstract:
Globalisation is at a crossroad. On the surface, we see phenomena such as the rise of populism and the rise of China. Some aspects of globalisation such as growth of international trade and investment have slowed down after the Great Recession of 2008-09. Scholars including Professor Michael Witt from ISEAD Singapore suggested that de-globalisation is now a distinct possibility. Against this backdrop of rising populism and a possible deglobalisation, this issue of New Zealand Journal of Research on Europe features insightful research and commentaries on important features of these concepts. Stefano Riela, in his article entitled ‘New Silk Roads: The Need for Effective Cooperation between the EU and China’, analyses the EU’s reactions to China’s massive infrastructure project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He calls for a cooperation between the two parties to turn a potential clash into a win-win outcome. Professor Gerald Chan then offers a reflection on how countries react to China’s BRI, framing the EU’s reactions within a wider global context including the Sino-American rivalry. Professor Cris Shore, in his article entitled ‘Signal Failure or Misrecognition? Brexit, Austerity and the European Union’, offers an anthropological explanation of Brexit and its causes, with some implications for the future of European integration. Professor John Morgan reflects on the ‘unmaking of America’ in the age of Trump, offering thoughts on the unwinding of the American dream. Morgan also asks if EU countries including France can hold back the tide of populism, and offers insightful analysis and answers to this question. Finally, Professor Gad Yair offers fresh perspectives on European politics and identities with his reflections on using the Eurovision Song Contest in teaching. He brings cultural and sociological perspectives to the debate on the future of Europe. Building on these contributions, this editorial will: (1) review theoretical and historical perspectives on de-globalisation and globalisation, including a discussion of the Sino-Western rivalry; (2) analyse the triggers and varieties of populism, including Brexit and the rise of US President Donald Trump; and (3) conclude with implications for European politics and identities.