Multinationalism and Covid-19

This book explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nationalism and the broader multinational state, including the United Kingdom, Spain, Belgium, and the United States. It examines how multinationalism has shaped the response to the crisis, the effects of the crisis on nationalist movements, and the tensions between national communities. It also discusses the gains and losses of governments, parties, and politicians in terms of self-determination claims.

Format: Hardback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nationalism and the broader multinational state is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful examination. In this edited volume, scholars from various countries explore the various dimensions of this phenomenon, including the effects of the pandemic on national identity, political discourse, and governance.

One of the key themes that emerge from the chapters is the role of multinationalism in shaping the response to the crisis. Multinational states, such as the United Kingdom, Spain, Belgium, and the United States, have faced unique challenges in combating the pandemic, as they are composed of multiple national communities with distinct interests and needs. The editors argue that multinationalism has played a significant role in facilitating the coordination of efforts and the sharing of resources among these nations, as well as in promoting cooperation and mutual understanding.

However, the pandemic has also raised questions about the sustainability of multinationalism and the extent to which it can accommodate diverse national interests. Some scholars argue that the crisis has highlighted the tensions and conflicts that can arise between national communities, particularly in the context of border closures, travel restrictions, and economic downturns. Others suggest that the pandemic has provided an opportunity for nationalist movements to gain traction and assert their demands, particularly in countries where governments have been perceived as failing to protect their citizens.

The chapters in this volume also examine the impact of the pandemic on the self-determination objectives and strategies of nationalist movements. Nationalist movements have long sought to establish their own independent states or regions, often based on cultural, linguistic, or religious differences. The pandemic has posed challenges to these objectives, as it has disrupted political processes, economic activities, and social movements. Some nationalist movements have responded by advocating for greater autonomy or independence, while others have sought to use the crisis to strengthen their position within existing multinational states.

Another important theme that emerges from the chapters is the role of national divides in shaping the response to the pandemic. The pandemic has exposed deep divisions within many countries, particularly between urban and rural areas, between different ethnic groups, and between different generations. These divisions have been exacerbated by political polarization, social media, and the spread of misinformation. The editors argue that national divides have the potential to hinder the effective response to the pandemic, as they can create barriers to cooperation and communication.

The chapters also explore the issues that have produced tensions between national communities or between minority nations and the state. For example, the pandemic has highlighted the disproportionate impact of the crisis on marginalized communities, such as immigrants, refugees, and indigenous peoples. Some nationalist movements have responded by advocating for greater social and economic support for these communities, while others have used the crisis to promote their own agendas or to undermine the legitimacy of the state.

The book also examines the gains and losses that different governments, parties, or individual politicians have experienced in terms of putting forward or managing self-determination claims. Nationalist movements have long sought to assert their own identity and autonomy within multinational states, often through the use of political rhetoric and symbolic gestures. The pandemic has provided an opportunity for these movements to gain attention and support, particularly in countries where governments have been perceived as failing to address their concerns.

However, the pandemic has also posed challenges for nationalist movements, as it has disrupted political processes, weakened economic institutions, and created social unrest. Some nationalist movements have been accused of using the crisis to promote their own interests or to undermine democratic institutions, while others have struggled to maintain their legitimacy and credibility in the eyes of the public.

In conclusion, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nationalism and the broader multinational state is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful examination. The chapters in this edited volume provide valuable insights into the various dimensions of this phenomenon, including the effects of the pandemic on national identity, political discourse, and governance. The book will be essential reading for academics, researchers, and policy-makers of political science interested in the fields of federal theory, multinationalism, minorities and natural disasters.

Weight: 367g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032430706