Ethical Globalization: Dr. Abbas Sharif Alaskari’s Vision for a Trade System That Uplifts All

In a world increasingly defined by complex global supply chains, digital commerce, and geopolitical uncertainty, the term globalization often provokes mixed reactions. For some, it represents opportunity and efficiency. For others, it symbolizes inequality and exploitation. As Dr. Abbas Sharif Alaskari, an educator, trade policy advisor, and lifelong student of global finance, I believe we need to rethink globalization — not by rejecting it, but by reshaping it. The future lies in ethical globalization.

Ethical globalization is the idea that international trade and financial systems must not only generate wealth, but also uplift communities, protect environments, and preserve cultural dignity. It is a framework where values are as central as profit. In my view, this is not idealism — it’s a necessity for long-term resilience and inclusive growth.

Throughout my career, particularly in my current role at Khalifa University, I’ve worked to embed this philosophy into both education and policy. I teach students that trade agreements are not just technical documents; they are social contracts that impact livelihoods, governance, and equity. When a country enters into a bilateral trade deal or implements customs reforms, it must weigh not only the economic gains but also the human cost.

The UAE stands at the crossroads of global trade. With advanced logistics infrastructure, strategic port locations, and strong international partnerships, we have the tools to lead — not just in trade volume, but in ethical standards. That’s why I’ve collaborated with the Ministry of Economy on studies that assess trade’s impact on labor, environmental justice, and regulatory transparency. These are the deeper layers of globalization that often get overlooked in spreadsheets and stock charts.

I have also advocated for inclusive trade ecosystems that support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly those run by women, youth, and underrepresented communities. In today’s hypercompetitive trade environment, large corporations often dominate the field. But we must ensure that the benefits of global commerce reach local entrepreneurs — not just multinationals. This means simplifying compliance processes, improving access to cross-border financing, and providing digital tools for small exporters.

As Director of the Center for Trade and Financial Innovation, I also mentor emerging fintech startups, many of which are building solutions to democratize international payments, enhance transparency in trade finance, and reduce corruption in supply chains. These innovations are not just technical achievements — they are vehicles for ethical trade. I tell my students and mentees: If your product doesn’t empower people or protect the planet, it’s incomplete.

Of course, ethical globalization must also confront the environmental crisis. The carbon footprint of trade logistics is immense, from container ships to air freight. As I’ve written in past articles on green logistics, we need to build sustainability into the DNA of trade systems — not as an afterthought, but as a guiding principle. This includes investing in renewable port infrastructure, clean fuels, and carbon accountability tools.

Most importantly, ethical globalization is not something governments can achieve alone. It requires collaboration across academia, industry, civil society, and youth movements. It calls for open dialogue, transparent metrics, and an unwavering commitment to fairness. As an educator, I see it as my duty to train not just economists or financiers, but leaders with conscience.

I, Dr. Abbas Sharif Alaskari, remain committed to this mission. In every lecture, policy discussion, or mentoring session, I seek to advance a vision of globalization that is not only smart — but just. Because the future of trade must belong to all of us.

‍