International Citizens' Movement and Social Development. New Spaces of International Dialogue

The economic globalization process witnessed during the past decade &, therefore, the increased level of interdependence between this planet's nations resulted in a period of profound transformations representing not only risks but also providing opportunities. Despite the collapse of broad political projects (socialism & anti-colonialism) & even though the neo-conservative globalization initiatives indisputably represent a strong & lasting trend, the balance of power has not irremediably shifted in favor of the globalization agenda. The international economic situation remains uncertain & unstable. In such a context, social movements can take advantage of a social & political landscape that changed considerably since the heyday of the Cold War, becoming far less polarized. As demonstrated by the mobilization of international non-governmental organizations (INGO) during numerous summits & conferences held by the UN (Rio, Beijing & Copenhagen) or by the strong participation observed at world-wide forums, civil society's voices are being heard again on the international scene. This article highlights the central themes of this new situation in which social movements, after being placed on the defensive for a long period, now reclaim an active role. 1 Table, 18 References. Adapted from the source document.