Globalization and automation

In class, we discussed globalization and automation as two megatrends that affect the jobs of workers in industrialized nations. The most immediate impact is on blue-collar (factory) workers, but white-collar professionals are not immune to these trends. On the other hand, globalization has been largely responsible for lifting hundreds of millions around the globe out of extreme poverty (through manufacturing and export), while automation may hold the key to the ultimate efficiencies needed to sustainably accommodate the needs of 9+ billion on a very crowded planet. I am interested in your perspectives. Please further explain these two megatrends in the contexts of global sustainability, and provide your perspectives on how the trends might impact
1) global treaties on climate change;
2) international frameworks on sustainable development such as the UN's Sustainable Development Goals;
3) rise of nationalism and protectionism sentiments around the globe;
4) countries' attitudes on immigrants and refugees;
5) potential for geopolitical conflicts. You may wish to examine the book Hot, Flat and Crowded.