Connecting the Dots: Charting the Path to a Prosperous Governance

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In an increasingly interdependent world, active participation in global governance

remains not just a choice but a necessity for nations committed to a more stable,

prosperous, and equitable future. Global governance is the cornerstone of international

cooperation in a world interwoven by complex challenges, where nations come together

to address issues transcending borders. By definition, global governance encompasses

everything that constitutes and mediates trans-border relations among nation-states,

cultures, international organizations, markets, and the people (Brazalote, 2023). Hence,

active participation in global governance reflects the interconnected nature of our world

and the recognition that nations must work together to build a more secure, just, and

prosperous global community. Amidst this, the Philippines, known for its rich culture and

diverse landscapes, holds a unique role. Positioned in Southeast Asia, the Philippine

government navigates the currents of global governance, seeking to safeguard its

interests, contribute to global stability, and address pressing global issues.

The Philippines, like many other nations, actively participates in global

governance through various means, including international organizations, treaties, and

diplomatic efforts. To engage more effectively in this phenomenon, the country can

continue and expand its involvement with Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs).

IGOs offer a platform for member states to collaborate on matters such as peace and

security, trade, human rights, and humanitarian aid and even often oversee and

implement initiatives that help maintain global stability. The Philippines has been one of

the members of the United Nations (UN) since the day it was founded in 1945 and has

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been actively participating in various UN bodies, such as the General Assembly,

Security Council, and specialized agencies (Lim, 2015). With its position, the country

contributes to global peace and security and fulfills the objectives of global governance

by participating in peacekeeping missions, like the example of Filipino troops

contributing to UN missions in various conflict zones (Lopez & Reyes, 2020). Moreover,

economics is a fundamental aspect of global governance because it influences nations'

prosperity, stability, and development in the context of global governance. The

Philippines has actively participated in the World Trade Organization (WTO) since its

establishment in 1995 (Arcalas & Ordinario, 2019). Such organizational participation

reflects the country's commitment to shaping the global trade agenda, fostering

cooperation, and promoting economic development and stability worldwide. Establishing

relationships and joining hands with various IGOs is not only beneficial to the concept of

global governance but also an advantage and highly significant to the striving state

member.

Furthermore, there is no globalization without member countries, so as a state

without its people, which leads another way for the Philippines to participate in global

governance through citizen participation. It is the people that conform to laws, norms,

and policies and even start various movements that depict what relationship it would

have among its neighboring or partner nations. This engagement enriches global

governance discussions with diverse perspectives, expertise, and values, contributing to

more effective and just global outcomes. An example of citizen participation is when

Filipino youth joined the global climate strike movement inspired by Greta Thunberg,

demanding more decisive action to combat climate change, not just in the country but

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worldwide (Mateo, 2019). Their participation highlights how citizens, even those from

separate places, can unite and mobilize to raise awareness about a critical global issue

and bridge nations to action. The participation of Filipinos can significantly aid the

Philippine government in actively participating in global governance by providing

grassroots support, fostering transparency, and advocating for policies that align with

the country's global interests. By actively participating in these ways, Filipino citizens

can complement the efforts of the Philippine government in global governance,

enhancing the country's influence and impact on the global stage.

In conclusion, global governance serves as the thread that weaves together

nations, cultures, and individuals in our interconnected world, remaining crucial for

addressing global challenges, maintaining peace, fostering economic development, and

promoting justice and sustainability. Like many other nations, the Philippines recognizes

the importance of its role in this endeavor, striving to contribute to global solutions while

safeguarding its interests in an ever-changing global landscape. Collaborating with like-

minded countries and international organizations is essential to address global

challenges effectively. The Philippines, through government participation in international

organizations and citizen engagement in global issues, contributes significantly to this

collective effort. Together, they reinforce the nation's role in the global community,

enhancing its influence and impact on the world stage. Thus, in this dynamic interplay of

nations and people, the Philippines emerges as an active and responsible participant in

pursuing a better, more interconnected world.