Gregory Gleason
University of New Mexico

Globalization The transition to a borderless information and economic space on a world wide level-globalization-is transforming the way that people and organizations deal with one another around the globe. Local markets for capital, goods, services, and information are being integrated into international markets. Computers and electronic transmission technology are transforming the world into a single information field. International standards for products, services, practices, and procedures are replacing local custom and habit. Fundamental change is taking place in how societies distinguish between the public and private sectors.
Globalization is opening vast new possibilities for the creation of prosperity and for the improvement of the human condition. At the same time, globalization is giving rise to unique administrative challenges. Local decision making bodies are increasingly required to conform to international demands and standards. Redesign of the private sector is taking place most significantly in the world's emerging markets and countries undergoing the post-communist transition from collectivist political and economic institutions to market economics and open political relationships.
Police officers sealed off an area in Karachi in June after the attempted assassination of a top Pakistani commander. Photo Credit: AP (10 June 2004)		Globalization is making the world smaller, bringing people closer and closer together. Alongside the great potential benefits of globalization are risks. The risks inherent in a tightly integrated world are illustrated in the increased vulnerability to disruption and damage.