Globalisation, ICT and Developing Nations

The force driving globalisation in the 21 century is undoubtedly Information and Communications Technology (ICT). Enabling instant communication over vast distances and in real time, ICT has far-reaching implications for transnational relationships. However, the core relationship between globalisation and ICT, a major area of inquiry, has hitherto been somewhat neglected and inadequately studied. Focusing on this important relationship, this book emphasises that increasingly non-state institutions, as opposed to the state, are transforming economies. The author also highlights the critical need for developing regions to shape ICT which can stimulate development and usher in the information age. Sumit Roy provides a comparative study of the political economies of East and South Asia (particularly India) and Africa which enables new analytical and policy insights into the linkages between globalisation and ICT. Among the key features of this book are: It discusses the concepts and policies underscoring the shift from state to non-state institutions in furthering the impetus of globalisation as also its implications for development. This is set against a backdrop of the transition from an agricultural to an industrial and eventually an information-based society. It explores the scope of different developing regions to participate in globalisation based on a comparison of their experience of growth and development–namely, the different phases of integration, disintegration, marginalisation, and reintegration into the international economy. It explores the ways in which policies on ICT can be both a challenge and a unique opportunity for paving the way for development. With its original approach and fresh analytical and policy insights, this cogent and well argued book will be of interest to students and teachers of globalisation, economics, new media, development studies, politics and international relations. Policy makers, too–especially those in international aid agencies–NGOs and multilateral bodies will find it invaluable.