December 5, 2023
Foreign policy is not as black and white or binary as it has been presented. In a conversational interview, Zoelick effortlessly shares his views on how to best consider and examine foreign policy. He offers a more fluid and applicable lens by drawing upon history and exploring its infusion into U.S. foreign policy. In his book, “America in the World: A History of U.S. Diplomacy and Foreign Policy,” he utilizes stories of influential political figures over the last two centuries to illustrate the productivity of viewing foreign policy through a historical and practical perspective. Zoelick dismisses the notion that international relations theory is the be-all and end-all, arguing that it lacks applicability to practical work in modern-day conflicts. He asserts, “Imperfect results in a far-from-perfect world are a good day’s work,” emphasizing the rigidness and complexities behind successful foreign policy while balancing strong public support. Zoelick uses examples like Benjamin Franklin, Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt to show the value of moving beyond grand strategy and theory into practicality. When applied to conflicts like those present in China or Iran, the deep history in their relationships with the U.S suggests that it may be best for America to leave these countries as they are to prevent increased tensions. Zoelick’s background in economics and public policy lends the talk a rounded and insightful understanding of why and how foreign policy should be considered within a globalized and interconnected world.
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.
