AN EXAMINATION OF THE INFLUENCE OF GLOBALIZATION ON CAMEROONS  FOREIGN POLICY

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

The phenomenon of globalisation has emerged as a prominent characteristic of the present-day international system, exerting a significant influence on the conduct and decision-making procedures of sovereign nations. Cameroon, a country located in central Africa, with a significant historical background and a varied cultural legacy. It finds itself at a critical juncture in relation to this worldwide occurrence (Achankeng, 2018). Cameroon's foreign policy decisions have a crucial role in determining its internal prosperity, regional stability, and international position as it deals with the challenges of globalisation. The primary objective of this research is to investigate the complex interplay between globalisation and Cameroon's foreign policy, with a focus on elucidating the manner in which international influences shape the nation's diplomatic agenda and approaches (Fomunyam, 2019). Cameroon, despite its abundant resources and rich cultural past, has a multitude of problems in effectively managing the intricate dynamics of globalisation. The foreign policy of the nation, which has historically prioritised regional stability, economic advancement, and diplomatic ties, has seen modifications in light of the increasing influence of globalisation (Ngwana, 2021). The Republic of Cameroon has shown significant engagement in regional economic alliances, including the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC). Nevertheless, the phenomenon of globalisation has compelled Cameroon to actively participate in global trade networks, so influencing its trade policies, investment plans, and economic relationships. Cameroon has seen both possibilities and disadvantages as a result of globalisation, which is defined as heightened interconnection and interdependence among states (Ngwana, 2021). Globalisation has played a significant role in enabling enhanced accessibility to global markets, facilitating the transfer of technology, and attracting foreign investment, so making substantial contributions to economic growth and development. Conversely, it has made Cameroon vulnerable to worldwide competition, fluctuations in the market, and foreign influences that influence its policy decisions. 

Cameroon's political choices are progressively shaped by international norms, standards, and institutions in the age of globalisation. Cameroon's position on matters such as human rights, democracy, and security is influenced by its membership in international organisations such as the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), and International Monetary Fund (IMF), which requires adherence to global objectives. According to Ngwana (2021), globalisation plays a crucial role in enabling the interchange of cultures, ideas, and values. The cultural exchange in Cameroon has both advantageous and disadvantageous consequences for foreign policy. The promotion of cultural diplomacy and the projection of soft power are accompanied with apprehensions over cultural hegemony and the safeguarding of national identity. According to Tadzong (2017), the widespread use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has brought about a significant transformation in the realms of communication and diplomacy. Similar to many other countries, Cameroon is required to adjust to the various issues and prospects arising from digital diplomacy, cybersecurity, and the utilisation of social media in influencing public sentiment and international relations. Although the effect of globalisation on Cameroon's foreign policy is well recognised, there is still a lack of academic research on the precise processes by which globalisation affects the development, execution, and results of policies (Tadzong, 2017). The objective of this study is to fill the existing research vacuum by doing a thorough examination of the impact of globalisation on Cameroon's foreign policy. This analysis will include several dimensions, including economic, political, cultural, and technical aspects. Therefore, the study examine the influence of globalization on cameroons  foreign policy.

1.2 Statement of the problem

Globalisation has been a prominent factor in influencing international relations in recent decades, resulting in significant changes to the dynamics of state interactions and policy formulations on a global scale. In the context of global integration, governments have seen substantial changes in their foreign policy, as they have adjusted to the changing dynamics of interconnection and dependency (Achankeng, 2018). In the given setting, Cameroon, as a developing country situated in Africa, finds itself at a pivotal moment when the impacts of globalisation have the potential to significantly shape its foreign policy choices. Nevertheless, despite the acknowledged importance of globalisation, there is a dearth of research examining the precise mechanisms via which it impacts Cameroon's foreign policy. The objective of this study is to comprehensively analyse and comprehend the many effects of globalisation on Cameroon's foreign policy (Fomunyam, 2019). This necessitates clarifying the manner in which globalisation phenomena, including economic integration, technical progress, cultural interchange, and political interdependence, influence the development, execution, and goals of Cameroon's interactions with the global community. 

In addition, the intricate nature of globalisation, including imbalanced power relations, economic inequalities, and cultural conflicts, presents Cameroon's foreign policy agenda with intricate difficulties and prospects (Ngwana, 2021). Hence, it is crucial to examine both the general patterns and the complexities of these impacts, taking into account the wide range of individuals and groups engaged and the particular circumstances in which Cameroon functions on the international platform. The primary objective of this study is to fill the current void in the scholarly literature by offering policymakers, academics, and stakeholders significant perspectives on the dynamic characteristics of Cameroon's foreign policy within the context of globalisation (Ngwana, 2021). This study aims to conduct a thorough examination in order to ascertain the primary factors, limitations, and possible strategies for Cameroon to effectively manage the intricacies of globalisation while simultaneously pursuing its national interests and ambitions on the global stage.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to examine the influence of globalization on cameroons  foreign policy. The specific objectives is as follows

To investigate the economic implications of globalization for Cameroon's foreign policy

To evaluate how globalization influence Cameroon's diplomatic engagements with other nations and international organizations

To explore the cultural and social dimensions of globalization on Cameroon's foreign policy.

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared to further guide the study

What are  the economic implications of globalization for Cameroon's foreign policy?

How has globalization influence Cameroon's diplomatic engagements with other nations and international organizations?

What are the cultural and social dimensions of globalization on Cameroon's foreign policy?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of this research will contribute to scholarly understanding of the complex interplay between globalization and national foreign policies in the African context, with implications for theory and practice in international relations, diplomacy, and development studies. Furthermore, policymakers, diplomats, and civil society actors in Cameroon and beyond will benefit from the insights generated, aiding in the formulation of informed and contextually relevant foreign policy strategies.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on examining the influence of globalization on cameroons  foreign policy. Empirically, the study will investigate the economic implications of globalization for Cameroon's foreign policy, evaluate how globalization influence Cameroon's diplomatic engagements with other nations and international organizations and explore the cultural and social dimensions of globalization on Cameroon's foreign policy.

1.7 Research Methodology

Research methodology deals with the different ways or methods the researcher applied in order to carry out the research as well as the instrument used for gathering the data. There are several research methodologies appropriate for answering the research questions. The type of research methodology used in this research to gather data and relevant information is the historical research and the study will adopt descriptive method of data collection. This will involve the collection of materials from secondary sources, such as books, journal articles, magazines, internet sources, international and national conference proceedings, published and unpublished articles.

1.8 Definition of terms

Globalization: refers to the process of increasing interconnectedness and interdependence among countries, economies, cultures, and societies worldwide. It involves the exchange of goods, services, information, technologies, and ideas across national borders, leading to greater integration and interrelation on a global scale.

Foreign Policy: Foreign policy encompasses a set of strategies, principles, and decisions adopted by a sovereign state in its interactions with other countries and international actors. It includes diplomatic, economic, military, and cultural efforts aimed at promoting and safeguarding the state's interests, values, and security in the international arena.