Oil reigns as the most crucial commodity in today's world, underpinning the global economy and shaping international relations. Its significance is undeniable, serving as the primary energy source and a fundamental pillar for industrial sectors, agricultural development, and traditional farming practices. The world's appetite for oil is insatiable, with consumption rates soaring to staggering levels. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that the global oil demand reached approximately 100 million barrels per day in 2019. A mere $5 increase in oil prices per barrel, if sustained over a year, could slash the global economic growth rate by 0.5%, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This underscores oil's critical role in fueling economic prosperity and stability.
The advent of the industrial revolution marked a pivotal moment in history, dividing the world into developed and underdeveloped nations. Western industrialized countries emerged as economic powerhouses, while others lagged behind, unable to reap the benefits of industrialization. The progress of developed nations is inextricably linked to a steady supply of oil, whereas underdeveloped countries rely heavily on traditional agriculture, natural resources, and foreign aid, much of which originates from developed countries. Consequently, any disruption in the developed world's growth can have far-reaching impacts on the economies of underdeveloped nations.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), which includes nations like Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, and Venezuela, holds a significant portion of the world's oil reserves. Non-OPEC oil-rich countries such as Russia, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan also play a vital role in the global oil market. Despite their abundant resources, the economies of these oil-exporting countries remain vulnerable to fluctuations in oil demand, often necessitating foreign aid to sustain economic growth.
Oil politics took center stage with the industrial revolution, as Western countries realized their domestic reserves were insufficient to meet their burgeoning oil needs. The 1973 oil embargo by Arab oil-producing countries against Israel and its Western allies marked a turning point, using oil as a political weapon and highlighting the strategic importance of oil in international relations.
Oil politics has led to a complex web of economic dependencies and geopolitical tensions. The wealth of Middle Eastern countries often ends up in Western banks, allowing Western nations to exert significant influence over the policies of oil-rich countries. This dynamic has led to accusations of double standards, as Western nations promote democracy while simultaneously supporting regimes that align with their oil interests.
The quest for oil has been a catalyst for political and military conflicts, with Western powers, particularly the USA and UK, accused of orchestrating regime changes to secure oil interests. The invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq are cited as examples of such interventions, with far-reaching consequences for regional stability and global markets.
Wars fueled by oil politics create a cascade of problems for underdeveloped countries, from human tragedies to economic disruptions. The United Nations has warned of the potential for massive refugee crises, environmental disasters, and increased economic burdens on neighboring countries.
Western aggression towards oil-rich Muslim countries has widened the cultural and religious divide, fostering resentment and misunderstanding between these regions. This tension complicates international diplomacy and hinders efforts to address global challenges collaboratively.
Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, former Prime Minister of Malaysia and chairman of the Non-Aligned Movement, has advocated for greater unity among Muslim nations. By leveraging their collective oil wealth, these countries could work towards economic and social prosperity, transcending individual interests in favor of a united front against external pressures.
In conclusion, while oil continues to be a source of wealth and power, it also remains a contentious issue that can undermine decades of human and social development. The future of global politics and the economy will likely be shaped by those who can navigate the complex landscape of oil diplomacy and harness its potential for the greater good.
