Western nations are doubling down on protectionist policies amid rising competition with China, risking a global divide that could resemble a 'second Cold War,' warns former Polish Deputy Premier Grzegorz Kolodko. His bold critique highlights growing fears that geopolitical tensions are derailing decades of globalization progress.
The Globalization U-Turn 🚧
Kolodko argues that the U.S. and allies, struggling to match China's economic momentum in sectors like green tech and AI, are now 'changing the rules of the game.' Tariffs, trade barriers, and tech decoupling threaten to splinter the world into rival blocs – a scenario he calls 'dangerously short-sighted.'
Cold War 2.0? ❄️
With nations prioritizing 'security over synergy,' Kolodko warns the world is entering an era of 'zero-sum thinking' reminiscent of 20th-century superpower rivalries. Unlike the original Cold War, however, today's interconnected economies mean conflict would have instant, cascading consequences for supply chains, climate goals, and global stability.
A Call for Pragmatism 🤝
The economist urges leaders to revive multilateral cooperation, emphasizing that 'no single nation can solve challenges like inequality or climate change alone.' His message resonates with young activists and entrepreneurs pushing for cross-border solutions – but will policymakers listen?
💡 The Takeaway: As TikTok debates #NewColdWar trends, Kolodko's warning is a reality check: economic fragmentation isn't just bad politics – it's Gen Z's future on the line.
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The world is on the wrong track, says former Polish deputy premier
cgtn.com