The documentary was brilliant in showing the ravaging effects of globalization on a small, relatively undeveloped economy. What it didn't offer was a solution to the problem. .
The corporations that exploited Jamaica are only doing what corporations are supposed to do -search for profit at all costs. These are your 401 K dollars at work. The IMF and lending institutions are doing what they are supposed to do - promote open economies, free markets, and government reform. The destructive nature of these policies on Jamaica is as much due to the nature of Jamaica as to the policies themselves. .
Why do the same policies that are wrecking Jamaica, result in rapid development in China, Ireland, etc.? Other countries have advantages not available to Jamaica. China has a vast internal market, resources, and an educated populace. Ireland has the financial support of the EU, and an educated English-speaking population. Globalization, the IMF, etc, are helping these countries. .
The bottom line is that the developed world needs nothing from Jamaica. Jamaicans do not have the natural resources, education, or infrastructure to compete. But Jamaica needs many things (cars, electronics, expertise, manufactured goods, etc.) from the developed world, and the rules for entry into that world favor open markets. In a free trade economy Jamaica is doomed to get poorer and poorer. .
So what is the solution? One is that the global community allows countries like Jamaica to set up tariffs and protect their internal markets. Jamaica would then be wise to utilize whatever time they have to start a massive education and infrastructure improvement program. Outside entities would have to invest for 20 years to bring the country up to western standards. I think this solution, though preferable, is very unlikely to happen. .
The other solution is to petition the U.S. to become the 51st state. Once in, they would be under the protection of U.
