Caribbean Integration or a Global Village? by

Caribbean Integration or a Global Village? by https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v A question of vital importance is whether Caribbean integration is a plausible reality and by extension, a necessity for future development of the region or whether citizens should aspire to become part of a global village. en-us 2019-04-16 04:13:02 UTC 2026-02-15 10:09:03 UTC hello@padlet.com HAS THE CARIBBEAN IMPACTED OTHER NATIONS? nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352194444 Caribbean people have migrated to other regions of the world and have created a Caribbean diaspora through the celebration of Caribbean festivals, music and religious movements. ]]> 2019-04-17 04:17:46 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352194444 HAS THE WORLD IMPACTED ON THE CARIBBEAN? nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352194521 The influence of other regions in the Caribbean cannot be understated since these impacts are noticeable in politics, education, consumption patterns and the rule of law. ]]> 2019-04-17 04:18:48 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352194521 How have Caribbean people impacted politics in other territories? nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196038 Caribbean Nationals have helped shape policies in extra-regional territories such as labour laws which protect exploitation of immigrants in addition to money laundering laws which are enforced at the port of entry in host countries. Haitian migrants have created organizations such as the Haitian-American Nurses Assocation of Florida which is active in hosing voter drives which aims to encourage increased Haitian participation in American politics. ]]> 2019-04-17 04:22:06 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196038 In terms of festivals... nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196147
Caribbean festivals such as Caribana and Notting Hill (London) have impacted positively on foreign countires. Host countries earn revenue through networking, sales of goods and rental of public spaces. Caribbean businesses may also be opened as their presence may be a constructive marketing tool.
In addition, the steelpan has been integrated into the syllabi of many schools in North America because of its diversity (Reggae, Calypso and Classical Music) and local people have even been employed as teachers not only of how to play the pan but how to tune them as well.

]]> 2019-04-17 04:23:08 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196147 Rastafari Movement nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196259 The religious and socio-political movement of the Rastafari has also impacted various societies across the world since it promotes peace and unity and is a vehicle for the promotion of Caribbean music and language. The Rastafari diet 'ital' has become popular worldwide where 'ital' restaurants have been established. Such a diet excludes preserved foods, salt and is vegetarian based. It has become popular in North America and Europe. ]]> 2019-04-17 04:23:51 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196259 nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196499 There is no denial of the fact that the Caribbean has its own identity which is founded on its history of colonialism, racism and slavery. This identity, however, is not confined to one locality. As a result of increased global interacions through the migratory patterns of Caribbean people, popular culture such as music, art and cuisine are respected and have been incorporated into the lives of foreign people.]]> 2019-04-17 04:25:45 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196499 nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196529 Individual Caribbean countries are unsuccessful in attempting to alter global policies since such territories are small and hence, voiceless on a global platform. Caribbean integration may be necessary in order to represent the interests of smaller Caribbean islands on a large scale. However, Caribbean integration may act as a shield which secludes the Caribbean from the rest of the globe. ]]> 2019-04-17 04:26:06 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196529 nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196710 The impact of the Caribbean on other countries of the world cannot be understated. The Caribbean identity is not confined to one geographical locality but it extends to many other regions where the diaspora thrives. Even though people may have migrated in search of betterment, whether this may occur within the realm of superior employment or educational opportunities, one's culture is an integral part of one's identity. It is for this reason, the diaspora thrives.]]> 2019-04-17 04:27:30 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352196710 In terms of sports... nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352197698 With reference to the area of sports, Caribbean athletes have encouraged international recognition as a result of their record-breaking performances.

This has a direct benefit for Caribbean stuents since foreign university recruiters often associate Caribbean people

with certain sports and this facilitates entry into such universities. Caribbean

nationals are also offerred scholarships and positions on international teams which increases the recogition and

development of a Caribbean identity.

]]> 2019-04-17 04:35:36 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352197698 Foreign Influences on the Caribbean nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198078
Historically, Caribbean countries were used as a source of raw materials and were dependent on metropolitan imports. This legacy has continued today in the dominace of multinational corporations. Local people tend to prefer foreign goods and services as a result of a perceived superiority over local production lines.

]]> 2019-04-17 04:38:56 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198078 Remittances nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198289 Caribbean people who live abroad also send remittances to family members in the region as a source of financial support. In 2015, the World Bank estimated the U.S- based remittance total for Guyana was $317 million. ]]> 2019-04-17 04:40:40 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198289 Foreign Political Influences nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198427 In terms of political influences, the Caribbean has adopted the Westminster Model of Parliament which was patterned from the United Kingdom. There are four main parts of the Westminster system which include a Head of State, Legislature, Executive and Judiciary. Parliament can be unicameral (Guyana) or bicameral (Trinidad and Tobago) and the power lies with the head of government which may be a Prime Minister or President. The rule of law is also a principle that emanated from the American Constitution as well as the Magna Carta in the United Kingdom. This principle is entrenched in the governmental structure and ensures there is no abuse of power by any elected member of Parliament, their bureaucrats and technocrats. ]]> 2019-04-17 04:41:53 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198427 Globalization nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198562
It has been said that arguing against globalization is like arguing against the laws of gravity.

~Kofi Annan

]]> 2019-04-17 04:42:54 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198562 Foreign Influences on Education nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198673 In terms of an educational impact, reference must be made to the increased use and penetration of computer technology which has contributed to the process of globalization. For Caribbean countries, this has meant increased access to eductional resources, such as distant learning programmes and increased communication especially at the tertiary level. Although Caribbean curricula has had a strong colonial influence, this provided the impetus for local governments to reform a Caribbean based curriculum that was specifically designed to meet the needs of Caribbean students’ needs and perpectives. ]]> 2019-04-17 04:43:35 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198673 Foreign Religious Influences nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198860 Reigious influences have also impacted the region since a variety of imported and syncretic religions exist in the Caribbean. Christianity was imported into region by the missionaries of Spain and the United Kingdom which sought to force Caribbean people to abrogate their own religious beliefs. In modern society, elements of Christianity interact with African religions which produce religions such as Orisha, Vodou and Obeah. These emerged as a result of the need for a sense of rebellion in ceasing to conform with mainstream religious practices. After emancipation, however, many remained adherant to Christianity as it continued to carry a sense of superiority and social acceptance. ]]> 2019-04-17 04:48:26 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352198860 Legal Systems in the Caribbean nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352199644 As a result of the Caribbean's history, the legal systems of the metropoles, for instance Great Britain, have survived even in contemporary Caribbean societies. By way of example, the Westminster Model is evident in Trinidad and Tobago in which the Head of State is a President who holds a ceremonial role and the executive function is exercised by the Prime Minister. However, some Caribbean territories have deviated from England's legal and political. More specifically, Caribbean countries have written constitutions, and as a result, are concerned with constitutional supremacy as opposed to Parliamentary supremacy in England.]]> 2019-04-17 04:56:31 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352199644 Diversity of Caribbean Culture and its Challenges nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352201565 The demographic diversity of the Caribbean can be attributed to its history of enslavement and indentureship. There exist challenges for people of various cultures resding in a particular geographical area such as language barriers which may hinder communication between people, as well as the possibility that ethnic groups may become marginalized such as the Gujaratis of Barbados.
The existence of different cultures may also give rise to the potential for racial discrimination since various groups may view their own cultures through the lens of enthnocentrism and as a result, cast ideas of inferiority on other social groups. ]]> 2019-04-17 05:07:51 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352201565 Pluralism nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352202671 According to M.G. Smith, pluralism is defined as the separate existence of distinct ethnic groups who may gather for common functions such as recreation or work, but preserve their societal institutions such as religion. Members of such societies may co-exist in harmony, yet racial tensions may arise at times such as in instances where societal institutions are shared, for instance in the political arena.]]> 2019-04-17 05:18:07 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352202671 West Indian Federation nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352203701 The West Indian Federation lasted only four years. Its objectives were many which included a need to strengthen internal and regional integration as well as the desire to fortify the movement of Caribbean countries toward self-government. However, this Federation failed for a variety of reasons which include the insecurities of smaller islands who feared he possible takeover by larger territories such as Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. To add, envy arose among the states because of the economic development and prosperity of Trinidad and Tobago. ]]> 2019-04-17 05:25:51 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352203701 Success of the Organization of the Eastern Caribbean States nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352204127 This organization was established in 1981, its mission which entails contributing to the development of the member states by supporting their involvement in the global economy. Its objectives include promoting unity and solidarity among member states and coordinating a joint foreign policy as far as possible. The OECS has its own currency, a judicial system, in addition to a central bank. Based on this point, it is not impossible for Caribbean countries to accumulate their assets in order to create financially stable and lasting relations; this may in fact be a necessity. However, global influences continuously rise whether it may be in the forms of food, music, fashion and religion. The average citizen of the region is not confined to the geographical limits of the Caribbean Sea but their experiences extend to other parts of the world. ]]> 2019-04-17 05:31:00 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352204127 Globalization Advantage #1 nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352205343 The language of most international trade and commerce is English which poses a major linguistic benefit to most Caribbean countries.]]> 2019-04-17 05:42:04 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352205343 Globalization Advantage #3 nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352206354 There is increased access to international markets which means an increased flow of external resources into the region. To add, there is also the widespread use of technology in financial transactions which can make small-scale businesses more competitive. ]]> 2019-04-17 05:47:03 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352206354 Globalization Advantage #4 nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352206648 There is also increased opportunity for the existence of new markets for goods produced in the region. One example which has major potential for growth is in 'weightless' products such as Information Technology expertise. ]]> 2019-04-17 05:49:33 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352206648 Impact of the World Bank (WB) on the Caribbean nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352207420 The projects undertaken by WB involve water supplies, road, rural development and healthcare. The interest rate is usually very low and the easy terms of the agreement make them attractive to countries.
In St. Lucia, 2011, a loan was approved for the repairment of the damage to infrastructure as well as improving the island's vulnerability after Hurricane Tomas. ]]> 2019-04-17 05:54:47 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352207420 Feminism nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352208087 The birth of feminism occurred in the late 19th century and the feminist movement began in the 1960's in the Caribbean. In terms of feminism, groups have been created within the region such as Sistren in Jamaica, Belize Rural Women Association and the National Organization of Women. These groups have sought to address issues of gender inequality and advocate for the establishment of rights of women, empowering girls through education and lobbying for laws to protect women (property and labour laws).]]> 2019-04-17 05:59:58 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352208087 Disadvantages of Globalization nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352208980 Caribbean writers have contended that globalization will inevitably erode local culture. Examples include the imposition of television programmes which may result in the rejection of the use of mesolect and basilect (linguistic variations) of Creole English. Children may be subconsciously taught that aspects of foreign cultures, such as the manner of speaking, the genres of music and even fashion trends are superior. Concerned writers have also pointed out the celebration of Halloween, Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday sales were not previously part of Caribbean lifestyles, yet foreign cultures have been subliminally forced upon local people. ]]> 2019-04-17 06:08:08 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352208980 Tourism nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352211041 If the Caribbean maintains trade relations that are in good standing with other nations, this may result in an increase in tourism. This will result in increased employment opportunities for local people such as jobs in the agriculture, transportation and construction sectors. There will also be direct foreign investment in Caribbean countries where hotels may be contracted to be built and there may even be governmental expenditure on the development of infrastructure such as improving roads, transport systems and housing. ]]> 2019-04-17 06:24:02 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352211041 Globalization and the Caribbean nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352213350 It is unsurprising that many Caribbean writers are concerned about the retention of the Caribbean identity in the face of what seems to be a compelling and inevitable motion towards globalization. It is not the opinion of this discussion that the Caribbean people will lose their identity if they seek to become members of a global village. The Caribbean itself is composed of various cultures and people of different ethnic backgrounds. The Caribbean is not a homogenous society with a static identity. ]]> 2019-04-17 06:43:16 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352213350 nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352214305 The reasons for the aforementioned opinion are:
1. the Caribbean diaspora thrives successfully in foreign countries and have not been diluted or eroded and obsolete even in a foreign land. Caribbean foods, music and festivals are enjoyed and are incorporated into the lives of other societies, outside the region. This reinforces the point that the Caribbean identity is unique and distinct from other cultures which explains why it still survives, decades after large migratory groups evaded the Caribbean. ]]> 2019-04-17 06:51:28 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352214305 nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352214742 2. The Caribbean identity will always remain in its historical, political, geographical and geological spheres. These elements cannot be divorced from their Caribbean context. It is because of these elements that certain religious practices, family patterns, educational curricula and political practices are unique to the Caribbean and are integral parts of its identity. This point makes reference to the concept of revisionism, in which Caribbean history is viewed through a lens which excludes eurocentrism. Caribbean history can never be changed even if the descendants of plantation owners/masters wholeheartedly regret their ancestors' actions. ]]> 2019-04-17 06:55:05 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352214742 Is Caribbean Integration a Reality? nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352216434 The idea of a global village is an increasing reality. Though some writers contend that globalization is not an inevitable process (because its architects do not pioneer that it is inevitable), the Caribbean should not preclude international relations in preference of Caribbean integration. There exist various differences between Caribbean islands despite palpable similarities such as historical and political factors. These differences alone, as previously discussed, have hindered integration movements in the past. Being part of a global village may be a moral viable option for Caribbean countries. ]]> 2019-04-17 07:06:58 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352216434 Caribbean Integration or a Global Village? nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352219143 It is of vital importance that an answer is provided for the proposed question. It is the opinion of this discussion that citizens of the Caribbean should strive to become members of a global village.]]> 2019-04-17 07:23:06 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352219143 Globalization Advantage #2 nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352219694 The small size of individual economies requires a small capital investment to encourage economic development. Similarly, a small increase in exports can have a profound effect on GDP per capita. ]]> 2019-04-17 07:26:58 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352219694 nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352693459 Bibliography]]> 2019-04-19 01:10:10 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352693459 Positive Effects of Cultural Diversity nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352695311 Even though there exist challenges in multicultural societies, positive outcomes are numerous and include:
1. There can be peaceful co-existence of members of various cultural groups who may share or even participate in different festivals which enriches the cultural dynamism of the region.
2. Culural diversity also increases opportunities for tourism since a variety of foods, festivals and music can be experienced.
3. To add, people who belong to different cultures may provide different standpoints on certain key issues in society since each ethnic group has distinct knowledge areas and skills. ]]> 2019-04-19 01:28:30 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352695311 Caribbean Society and Culture nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352695976 It is possible that a major concern for Caribbean citizens may be that Caribbean societies and identity will be diluted if citizens were to become part of a global village. If Caribbean people were to accept foreign cultures, norms and values, would this mean that out local way of life would be abrogated?]]> 2019-04-19 01:36:11 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352695976 Characteristics of a Society nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352696509 1. Members of a society have the same common purpose, objectives albeit the existence of different religious beliefs and traditional practices. In the Caribbean, this common purpose may be to eradicate racism and increase tolerance of different ways of life.
2. Societies are also defined by a territorial space. The Caribbean society occupies a geographical area in which countries (not all) are 'washed' by the Caribbean Sea. ]]> 2019-04-19 01:42:44 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352696509 Continued... nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352697041 3. Caribbean societies are also continued over time and space which draws reference to the fact that the Caribbean identity is based on its history of colonialism, slavery and indentureship. Regrettably, racial overtones and prejudice may still exist in contemporary Caribbean society but such a society has evolved from its past and tradtions have been continued even today.
4. Societies may also be defined by citizenship in which people born in a particular country are automatically natural citizens of that country. Even people who migrated to other regions of the world from the Caribbean retain their cultures and it is for this reason that the Caribbean diaspora thrives. ]]> 2019-04-19 01:47:05 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352697041 What is the future of Caribbean societies? nirupa1999 https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352697625 It is difficult to contend that Caribbean society will be eroded or devalued. Just as the Caribbean layman must tolerate (and to an extent, accept) people of various cultures, if Caribbean citizens aspire to become part of the wider world, this concept of tolerance will not have changed drastically. The definition of a Caribbean society will always satisfy the four aforementioned factors and thus, the concept of a 'Caribbean society will not be diminshed. Countries such as Trinidad and Tobago subscribe to international treaties and laws such as laws regarding Intellectual Property. It is the opinion of this discussion that in order to maintain good relations with other territories of the world, Caribbean people should not seek to excommunicate the rest of the globe, by creating an integrating body. ]]> 2019-04-19 01:52:36 UTC https://padlet.com/nirupa1999/9clf6cblog8v/wish/352697625