Nowadays, the pandemic is a term that is heard worldwide due to the current COVID-19 situation. The coronavirus has had an impact on the entire planet, paralyzing global processes for months. Nevertheless, COVID-19 is not the first pandemic the world has faced, even in the 21st century. However, the current situation has become especially concerning for a variety of reasons. In fact, it is not only the disease itself that caused such serious consequences, as the unprecedented level of globalization has contributed to the issue.
According to the general understanding, if the outbreak of a potentially lethal disease reaches a significant magnitude and spreads beyond national borders, the term pandemic is used. Over the course of its history, the world has faced several deadly pandemics. The list includes various instances starting from the Ancient era and including The Black Death, Spanish Flu, and H1N1 Swine Flu. In addition, some pandemics are not necessarily rapid in terms of the death toll increase. For example, AIDS spreading has been considered a pandemic, too, due to its global nature. However, COVID-19 is different from its 21st-century predecessors in several aspects. First of all, its international death toll is alarmingly high, making it one of the most severe crises since the end of WWII. Secondly, the virus spreads rapidly worldwide, and it has managed to paralyze multiple nations’ economies and infrastructures. Finally, it directly affected millions of lives, as there is not a corner left in the world untouched by the coronavirus.
Overall, the aspects mentioned above highlight the level of globalization in the modern world. Countries and continents have established strong economic, political, and social ties, making them dependant on one another. Additionally, international communication and transportation are easier than ever due to modern technological advancements. Similarly to the majority of phenomena, globalization has its advantages and disadvantages. While it contributes to the overall growth and development, the current pandemic showed significant flaws of a globalized, yet unprepared world.