Global identity: Prospects and dangers

Observer

6 days ago

The idea of a 'global identity' has recently emerged with the forces of globalisation, technological interconnectedness and mass migration propelling it. This concept suggests that beyond local, regional or national identities, individuals may begin to perceive themselves as part of a wider human community. While a global identity promises solidarity and collective action, it also raises dangers of cultural erasure, alienation and political backlash.
At the individual level, adopting a global identity can expand one's perspectives. Exposure to diverse cultures, languages, and worldviews through travel, education, and digital interaction cultivates empathy and openness. For instance, a student collaborating with international peers on climate research develops a sense of shared responsibility transcending national borders. This cosmopolitan outlook enhances creativity, cross-cultural competence, and employability in global careers. Yet, it can simultaneously dilute the strength of local roots. Individuals may experience identity confusion as they feel alienated from their cultural heritage or excluded from their host communities if they are perceived as 'foreign.' Psychologically, the tension between local belonging and global aspirations can lead to what sociologists term 'rootlessness' or 'placelessness' which erodes a secure sense of self.
At the community or cultural level, global identity fosters inclusivity and pluralism. Multicultural cities are living examples of how diverse communities coexist, exchange practices and create hybrid identities. This process can rejuvenate traditional cultures by integrating new ideas while preserving core values. For example, many indigenous activists use global platforms to amplify local environmental struggles to gain solidarity from international allies. However, the danger here lies in cultural homogenisation. Global media, commerce, and fashion often privilege Western or dominant narratives, while marginalising minority languages, indigenous knowledge systems and traditional art forms. The global market's preference for certain aesthetics and norms can lead to cultural erosion, where local traditions are commodified or lost entirely in the name of 'modernisation' and economic growth.
At the national or political level, embracing a global identity facilitates international cooperation. Transnational challenges such as climate change, pandemics and cybersecurity threats require nations to prioritise shared interests over narrow nationalism. Global institutions like the UN or WHO thrive on the notion that humanity forms a single moral community with mutual obligations. The Covid-19 pandemic, for example, highlighted the need for global solidarity in vaccine distribution and research. Yet, the rise of global identity also triggers political dangers. Nationalist movements worldwide argue that globalism undermines sovereignty, economic security and cultural integrity. They even exploit these fears to frame global identity as a threat to national values. This backlash can result in xenophobia, protectionism and even violent conflict, as seen in anti-immigrant movements across Europe and the United States.
At the civilisational or planetary level, the ideal of global identity offers humanity a chance to avert existential risks. For example, climate change mitigation requires humans to identify not merely as citizens of states, but as stewards of Earth. However, defining a singular global identity risks imposing monolithic moral or ideological frameworks. It may ignore power asymmetries, especially between developed and developing nations. This might lead to neocolonial governance structures where dominant powers dictate the terms of 'global' priorities.
In fact, global identity is neither purely utopian nor dystopian. Its prospects lie in fostering peace, understanding and sustainable development by encouraging humans to see beyond artificial divides. On the other hand, its dangers lie in erasing differences, suppressing dissenting voices and exacerbating inequalities under the banner of 'unity.' Therefore, cultivating a balanced global identity requires critical awareness as it demands intercultural humility that respects local wisdom while recognising our interconnected fates.
As the world becomes more interconnected, education systems, policymakers and global citizens must nurture identities that are simultaneously rooted and open — where one can proudly say 'I am Omani', 'I am African', or 'I am Chinese', while also saying 'I am human.' Only then can global identity fulfil its promise of building a world that is not merely connected, but also compassionate, just and resilient.
Dr Omar Osman Jabak
The author is with UTAS Rustaq