Globalization, migration and social development

This paper critically examines assumptions underpinning the alleged benefits of globalization for poorer countries and argues that globalization creates the conditions that are promoting large-scale migration from poorer to richer countries. In conjunction with the programmes of structural adjustment promoted by the north, this undermines local economies and welfare structures and services. In turn, these processes accentuate the existing phenomenon of structural racism, reflected in increasingly harsh policies and attitudes towards migrants amongst northern countries that are creating stronger barriers to most forms of migration. The paper concludes by arguing that community development, informed by the values of social justice, has an important role to play in building bridges between communities and combating racism at local, national and international levels. African Journal of Social Work Vol.18(2) 2003: 49-7