April 13, 2021
In his presentation to the BCFA, Mr. Miller quotes Churchill’s last major speech to Parliament in 1951 to emphasize the unchanging importance of nuclear capabilities since its inception—“safety will be the sturdy child of terror, and survival the twin brother of annihilation.” As other world powers increasingly present their nuclear armament as an offensive ability, the United States must modernize its nuclear systems to enforce an air of deterrence in the international system. The United States must show both the capability and will to replace increasingly obsolete defense systems to protect itself and its allies from encroaching, technologically advancing opponents.
Franklin C. Miller, the former director for defense policy and arms control and the national security council, offers valuable insight into his thoughts on nuclear deterrence. He believes that for successful nuclear deterrence the United States must continually prove that we have the capability and will to utilize nuclear weapons to deter attacks against us and our allies. If we do not consistently prove this to be true, the U.S. is at risk of being tested by other nuclear powers: notably, China and Russia. Miller also argues against the idea that simply banning nuclear weapons will be ineffective. He proves this by pointing out that the number of wars since the creation of nuclear weapons at the end of WWII has decreased significantly. He points out that human nature has not changed, but rather the danger that is invoked by the threat of war has increased.
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.
