Economic globalization, characterized by the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of national economies through the free flow of goods, services, capital, technology, and labor, has profoundly reshaped employment patterns in the 21st century. These changes are multifaceted, affecting both developed and developing nations, and have led to both opportunities and challenges for workers worldwide.

1. Job Displacement and Creation: Globalization has led to significant job displacement in certain sectors, particularly manufacturing in developed countries, as companies move production to regions with lower labor costs (offshoring and outsourcing). Simultaneously, it has created new jobs in emerging economies and in sectors like technology, services, and logistics that support global trade and interconnectedness. The demand for specific skills has shifted, favoring those with digital literacy, adaptability, and specialized knowledge.

2. Flexibilization of Labor and the Gig Economy: The globalized economy often demands greater flexibility from labor markets. This has led to a rise in non-standard employment arrangements, such as temporary contracts, part-time work, and self-employment. The 'gig economy,' facilitated by digital platforms, has expanded rapidly, offering flexible work but often without traditional employee benefits, job security, or collective bargaining power. This trend is prevalent across many countries, from ride-sharing to freelance creative work.

3. Increased Demand for High-Skilled Labor and Skill Gaps: Globalization has intensified competition, pushing companies to innovate and adopt advanced technologies. This has increased the demand for highly skilled workers (e.g., engineers, IT professionals, researchers) who can manage complex global operations and drive innovation. Conversely, it has reduced the demand for low-skilled manual labor in many developed economies, exacerbating skill gaps and contributing to unemployment among less-educated workers.

4. Wage Stagnation and Income Inequality: In many developed countries, globalization has put downward pressure on wages for low- and middle-skilled workers, as they compete with lower-wage labor in other parts of the world. This has contributed to wage stagnation and a widening gap between high-skilled, high-income earners and others. In developing countries, while globalization can create jobs and raise some wages, it can also lead to exploitative labor practices and a race to the bottom in terms of labor standards.

5. Migration of Labor: The ease of international travel and communication, coupled with economic disparities, has fueled increased international labor migration. Workers move across borders in search of better economic opportunities, filling labor shortages in some countries while sending remittances back to their home countries. This has significant implications for both sending and receiving nations' labor markets and social structures.

6. Growth of Global Supply Chains: Employment is increasingly integrated into complex global supply chains. Workers in one country might be producing components for a product assembled in another and sold worldwide. This interdependence means that economic shocks or changes in demand in one part of the world can have ripple effects on employment across the entire chain.

7. Impact on Labor Unions and Worker Rights: The mobility of capital in a globalized economy can weaken the bargaining power of labor unions. Companies can threaten to move production to countries with weaker labor laws or lower wages, making it harder for unions to negotiate for better conditions or wages. This can lead to a decline in union membership and a weakening of worker protections in some regions.

8. Informalization of Employment: In many developing economies, globalization has contributed to the growth of the informal sector, where workers lack formal contracts, social security, and legal protections. While providing livelihoods, this sector often involves precarious work and vulnerability.

In conclusion, economic globalization has fundamentally altered employment patterns by creating a more interconnected, competitive, and flexible global labor market. While it has spurred economic growth and created new opportunities, it has also presented challenges related to job security, wage inequality, and worker rights, necessitating adaptive policies and continuous skill development.