ABSTRACT
This chapter suggests that an important relationship can be identified between neoliberal development, the role of the state and its development strategies at a global, national, regional and local connection. It argues that modernization has become inextricably tied to neoliberal globalization and yet the dynamics involved are causing real discontents which have led to critical social responses to globalization. One area of the globe that has attracted particular attention because the mobilization of one of the first revolts against neoliberal globalization took place there, is the Latin American state of Chiapas, southern Mexico. Chiapas, one of 31 federal region or states of the United States of Mexico is located in the Southern corner of Mexico. The North American Free Trade Agreement treaty provided opportunities for other Latin American countries to benefit from free trade. There are groups such as the Mexican Action Network on Free Trade organizing trade unions and small farmers.
