March 14, 2019
In the debate over the United States’ role as the “indispensable nation” in shaping global order. Robert J. Lieber debates whether this role remains necessary and possible in a post-Cold War world, where the United States became a global leader in economy, technology, culture, and military power. For that matter, he identifies key internal and external challenges that have emerged and reshaped the present international scenario. Externally, he scrutinizes the consequences of 9/11, the rise of revisionist powers, nuclear proliferation, and the erosion of expertise. Internally, the challenges derived from wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and the hesitations in Syria, which significantly questioned America’s credibility and its ability to engage effectively in Foreign Affairs. In his discussion, Lieber acknowledges a small reduction in the United States’ weight on the world stage, especially with all the global changes. However, he staunchly contends that despite these transformations, America’s “unmatched strengths” still make its role in shaping a stable and prosperous global environment crucial.
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.
