Globalization: Implications for U.S. National Security (CRS Report for Congress)
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| Release Date |
June 15, 2001 |
| Report Number |
RL31018 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Robert Shuey, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
Summary:
Globalization is a term usually used to describe intercontinental economic, social, and political
integration. Many people, businesses, and countries benefit from globalization but others may be
hurt economically, some cultures may be harmed, and the environment may suffer. U.S. national
security faces both benefits and risks from globalization.
Several contemporary developments that effect U.S. security are often linked to globalization
even though they may not be not directly related to multinational integration. Developments such
as decreased defense budgets, increased military use of civilian products and technology,
privatization of defense R&D, consolidation of defense industries, and increased military use
of
sophisticated information systems are the results of decisions based on changes in the foreign threat,
technological innovations, and domestic political and economic changes. Globalization and other
developments affecting U.S. defense industry and government research, acquisition, security, and
export control policies have shaped a security environment sharply different than that of the Cold
War.
Globalization may actually reduce the risks of conflict among closely connected nations.
Economic integration probably contributes to international political stability by increasing economic
interdependence and helping the spread of democracy. In conjunction with related defense
developments, globalization has contributed to enhanced U.S. military capabilities through the
efficient application of commercial technologies and commercial services, and has improved
interoperability of allied forces, according to a study by the Defense Science Board. The U.S.
Military's exploitation of advanced information systems, sensors, navigation devices, and computers
- some of the same technologies that have driven globalization, has enabled U.S. leaders to
coordinate firepower and troop movements with unprecedented combat effectiveness while reducing
the level of U.S. casualties.
Globalization is also increasing U.S. vulnerability as key military and dual-use technologies
become available to all countries that can afford them and world travel and information flows have
been made inexpensive and relatively easy. The U.S. armed forces also have become more reliant
on sophisticated electronics - some of it produced abroad - and are exposed to new forms of
information warfare. The military industrial base may become less responsive to national security
needs as it takes clients, materials, labor, and capital from the global market.
Many policy options have been suggested that may offer limited means for exploiting the
opportunities and ameliorating the problems created by globalization and related developments.
Some options that are likely to receive congressional consideration include: modifying defense
R&D,
procurement, force structure, forward deployment, and information security. The changing
environment could also prompt the United States to reexamine its alliance relationships, industrial
and work force policies, nonproliferation and export controls programs.
