A IEP@BU Working Paper - De-Globalization and Fragmentation

07/04/2025
Are we witnessing a phase of increasing economic fragmentation among different regions and geopolitical blocs? What are the reasons for this phenomenon and what could be its consequences?
Number: 196
Year: 2025
Author(s): Italo Colantone

Is the world de-globalizing? Is the global economy fragmenting along geopolitical lines? This article provides an overview of the available empirical evidence on de-globalization and fragmentation. A working paper by Italo Colantone

COLANOTNE GLOBALIZATION
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Executive Summary

 

Is the world de-globalizing? Is the global economy fragmenting along geopolitical lines? This article provides an overview of the available empirical evidence on de-globalization and fragmentation. 

This evidence does not point to a generalized phenomenon of de-globalization; it is more consistent with a process of slow-balization. 

At the same time, there are clear signals of geopolitical fragmentation. 

Against this backdrop, the article then provides: a systematic analysis of the underlying phenomena, including both structural drivers and idiosyncratic shocks; a broader reflection on the globalization backlash observed in politics already from the mid-1990s; and a discussion of the costs of de-globalization and fragmentation, both in terms of economic growth and welfare and in terms of peace and security

IEP@BU does not express opinions of its own. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. Any errors or omissions are the responsibility of the authors.

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