Nation states are sovereign states governed completely by a distinct ethnic group. Essentially, it is a type of state combining the political entity of a state and the cultural entity of a nation. Holding a more precise concept than that of a ‘country,’ the role of nation states extend beyond just protecting its people, but also its much glorified national identity. In its most extreme, ‘ideal nation state’ models around the idea of “one nation, one state;” whereby the population is ethnically and culturally homogenous. Social influences play an important role in cultivating pride and loyalty within a nation; from constant parading the national flag all the way to ingraining national history in its school syllabus. Claiming a nationality is then painted to entail upholding shared beliefs, expectations and values, which are all in alignment to the national mission – whatever the propagators of that nation state chooses it to be.
Nonetheless, where does this ideology stand in society today? Being in the most blatant sense a social construct, are nation states still relevant to our ever-melding, decentralising world? In attempt to answer this, we must look at both the issue of nationality for ethnic minorities and bureaucracy of national borders, respectively.
Being the obvious outliers to the majority, minorities in nation states bring a diversity that is more often than not greeted with prejudice. Though some nations beautifully find a way to accommodate for their minority, proud nationalist countries still reject minorities for differing gaudily from the undivided traditions and accepted social dynamics that characterises the national identity. As seen historically from the prejudice towards Roma and Jews in Europe, the horrific genocide of the Tutsi in Rwanda, and the ongoing ethnic cleansing of the Rohingyas in Myanmar, it is sadly common for minorities to face discrimination, violence and even extermination – all in the name of maintaining status quo.
However, times are changing. Globalisation is radically challenging the set models and beliefs embedded behind nation states, as we begin to shed off the need to view others under the constrictive labels of nationality. With the increasing interdependence between countries, many are drawn away from their motherland in sought for better jobs and education. As globalisation stimulates trade and strengthens international ties, the rigidity of national identity is also becoming quickly watered down as we begin find more reason to cross borders than swords. The increase in migration has completely changed the purpose of nationality, which has evolved from being the state in which you seek refuge in, to the sole determinant as to which nation you can and cannot go, and the extent of your rights there. Thus, another artificial social hierarchy is now constructed, all determined by the color of your passport. What used to be solely influenced by race and geography is now increasingly market driven, with its own set of complex economics. Thus, from long-term residency, marrying a local spouse, joining the military, to just being filthy rich, there are many opportunities that have since emerged allowing a nationality to be obtained.
Clear borders between nation states also is seen as messy and increasingly trivial. Hindering the flow of international trade with unnecessary red-tape, this outdated bureaucracy is not in alignment to the trend of worldwide deregulation we see today. Evidence of this is how nations have over the years formed trade alliances with their recurrent trading partners. Allowing an easier flow of raw resources, finished goods and even employment, a lot of cost is driven down from decentralizing the power of state. Today, trade unions involve more than just bilateral contracts as many countries are opting not to live in isolation. From the EU in Europe, ASEAN in Asia, to the African Union, nations are readily opening its borders to other neighbouring states, forming lasting ties of mutual benefit.
Thus, what does this mean for the future? Will territorial boundaries be completely blurred? Will a single, global society emerge from the breakdown of tradition? Our dissociation from the archaic mold of “one nation, one state” is a consequence of it not being practically applicable to our society today. If nation states find a way to retain loyalty and support from their nationals, whilst efficiently controlling and organizing capital, then perhaps complete, global autonomy is not forthcoming. However, that is not reality. I believe that trade unions will continue to strengthen and expand, given its efficiency in dealing with capital. A common social identity will potentially develop between these allies, with peace being maintained for trade advantage and political and military solidarity.
The future is swaying towards the temptation of establishing a self-governed global ecosystem because it provides a promise of freedom of choice and tolerance that is not attainable under a nation state model. Nonetheless, we must be conscious as to not letting global deregulation plate a platform for the establishment of exploitive corporate states, be it by authoritarian capitalists or even democratic capitalists who advocate for increasing privatisation at the expense of the have-nots. All in all, the concept of nationality will only remain imbedded in society until we unlearn to use it as a means of separation from one another.
