March 18, 2021
There are few things in the Western public imaginaire more associated with terrorism than explosions—suicide bombings, IEDs, car bombs—and the AK-47. These symbols are so associated with public-political disruption due to what Dr. Cronin calls the “Open Technological Revolution.” This access to technological information—first made widespread through 20th-century journals and put into hyperspeed by the internet—blurs the line between professional manufacturers and capable, amateur tinkerers. What was once only possible through state-sponsored ventures, individual actors and non-state groups are increasingly pursuing their political goals by manufacturing and customizing 2nd/3rd generation technologies and using them against state forces. This trend only continues as more and more advanced technologies become public-internet domain.
Dr. Audrey Cronin offers insight into the historical and developing context of global terrorism. She argues that there are two types of innovative systems: open development and closed technological development. She believes that we are now in a system of open development which enables non-state actors to have access to any sort of information that is accessible, and this is dangerous because it introduces a downside of innovation. To best counter this danger, as a society, we should be introducing public regulation, global agreements, increased education, and counter measures to things already in use. She believes the open technological systems are dangerous and perpetuated by the rise of the internet and globalization and we must tread carefully in the future: not necessarily stopping innovation but maintaining caution and foresight as we continue to innovate and create.
Forced displacement represents one of the most pressing humanitarian issues of our time. Individuals and families, torn from the fabric of their communities, find themselves navigating a world of uncertainty, often without basic necessities or a clear path to safety. There are currently some 110 million forced displaced, and this number is growing by 10 million each year!
At the heart of this crisis are the political triggers. Armed conflicts, ethnic or religious persecutions, and systemic human rights abuses force millions to flee their homes in terror. Many are displaced within their own national boundaries, while others seek asylum abroad. If these factors change as a result of political shifts at home or the pressures from abroad, they can return to their homes. Forced displacement is thus different from environmentally driven displacement, as victims of climate change may never be able to return to their homes.
The ramifications of any sort of displacement are profound, not just for those directly affected, but also for host communities and countries. Overburdened infrastructures, socio-economic strains, and cultural tensions can arise, necessitating comprehensive strategies to foster harmony and integration. Yet the root causes of forced displacement can be remedied with a concerted focus by local players and international diplomacy.
Organizations like Refugees International play a crucial role in this arena, advocating for the rights and needs of the displaced, conducting on-the-ground assessments, and influencing policymakers to take informed actions. Their relentless work underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgency ofinternational cooperation. But they, too, are overwhelmed by the rapid expansion of the crisis.
International Humanitarian Law (IHL), with its core principles centered on the protection of civilians during conflicts, plays a pivotal role in this discourse. Yet, despite clear legal frameworks, compliance remains
inconsistent. This initiative emphasizes the importance of upholding and reinforcing these international standards.
It’s not just about recognizing the problem; it’s about active engagement. We urge governments, organizations, and individuals to prioritize the rights and needs of the forced displaced. Through collective efforts, informed policies, and sustained advocacy, we can shift the narrative from passive acknowledgment to proactive intervention.
