Contemporary Relevance of Marxist IR
Introduction
Marxism is a theory developed by Karl Marx that focuses on class struggles, economic
power, and social inequality. In International Relations (IR), Marxist ideas help to
understand how global politics and economics are influenced by capitalism. Though
Marxism was first introduced in the 19th century, its ideas are still useful today when
studying current global problems like poverty, inequality, and neo-imperialism. This
paper will explain the relevance of Marxist IR in understanding today’s world, especially
from the context of developing countries like Ethiopia.
1. Global Inequality and Uneven Development
Marxist IR argues that the global system is divided between the rich and powerful
countries (also called the "core") and the poor, weaker countries (the "periphery").
Developed countries, mostly in the West, benefit more from trade, finance, and
technology. On the other hand, developing countries are left behind and continue to
depend on the core. This causes uneven development. For example, Ethiopia has made
economic progress, but many rural areas still suffer from poverty and poor infrastructure.
Marxists believe this is because of the global capitalist system, which is designed to
benefit the rich at the ex even when developing countries grow, the benefits are not
equally shared within the country or across the world” . This shows how Marxist IR
explains the unfair distribution of wealth both globally and locally.
2. The Role of Multinational Corporations (MNCs)
Multinational Corporations are large companies that operate in many countries. While
they bring investment and jobs, Marxist IR sees them as tools of global capitalism. These
companies often exploit cheap labor in poor countries to make big profits. In Ethiopia, for
instance international clothing factories pay workers very low wages compared to what
they would pay in Europe or the US. This keeps workers poor while the company earns
more.
Marxist thinkers argue that MNCs are part of a system where the rich owners
(bourgeoisie) exploit the poor workers (proletariat). These corporations are not just
business actors they are political forces that influence laws, labor standards, and even
government policies.
3. Financial Crises
Marxist IR also helps us understand financial crises, like the global economic crisis in
2008. According to Marx, capitalism always tries to increase profit, which can lead to
risky financial behavior. Banks and companies may take shortcuts or create unstable
systems to make more money. This leads to economic bubbles and crashes. When a crisis
happens, it is usually the poor and working-class people who suffer the most losing jobs,
homes, and access to services.
Ethiopia also faces challenges due to global financial instability. Changes in global
markets, currency value, and international aid can affect the Ethiopian economy.
A Marxist IR view helps explain how poor countries often suffer the consequences of
crises caused by rich countries' financial systems.
4. The Dynamics of Globalization
Globalization connects the world through trade, technology, travel, and communication.
While some people say globalization brings development, Marxist IR is more critical.
Marxists believe globalization is another way for capitalist countries to expand their
control. It spreads Western culture, economic rules, and political influence.
In Ethiopia, globalization has both helped and hurt. On one side it has opened up
opportunities in education, technology and tourism. On the other side, local cultures,
industries and even food systems are being replaced by Western ones. For example,
foreign fast food chains may hurt local restaurants and foreign movies and music may
replace Ethiopian traditions.
Marxist IR helps us ask: who benefits the most from globalization? Often, it is the rich
countries and companies not the average Ethiopian farmer or factory worker.
5. Neo-Imperialism and Power Imbalances
Even though colonization officially ended in the 20th century, Marxist IR says that
imperialism never truly disappeared it just changed forms. This is called neo-imperialism.
Rich countries still control poor countries through debt, trade deals, and political
pressure. This modern form of domination allows powerful countries to influence what
poor countries can or cannot do.
A good example is when international organizations like the IMF or World Bank give
loans to developing countries but attach strict conditions. Ethiopia and other African
countries have sometimes had to reduce government spending on health or education just
to qualify for loans. This shows how foreign powers still have control just like during
colonial times but now through money instead of armies.
Conclusion
Marxist IR remains important for understanding today's global issues. It explains how the
world economy is built in a way that favors the rich and powerful while keeping the poor
dependent. In Ethiopia and many other countries, we can see the effects of global
inequality, exploitation by multinational corporations, financial instability, and neo-
imperialism. While Marxism may not offer all the answers, it gives us important tools to
question the current world system and think about fairer alternatives.
References
1. Global Training Module on Global Development (2022). Inequality and Global
Power Structures. Addis Ababa: Ministry of Education. p. 34.
2. Marx, Karl & Engels, Friedrich (1848). The Communist Manifesto. London:
Penguin Classics.
3. Harvey, David (2010). The Enigma of Capital and the Crises of Capitalism.
Oxford University Press.
