Steven R. David is a Professor of Political Science at Johns Hopkins University where he specializes in international security issues and American foreign policy. He received a Master’s degree in East Asian Studies from Stanford University and a PHD from Harvard. David has written several books and numerous articles that have appeared in such journals as FOREIGN AFFAIRS, INTERNATIONAL SECURITY, WORLD POLITICS AND ISRAEL AFFAIRS.
At Hopkins he has served as the Chair of the Political Science Department, Director of Jewish Studies, and Vice Dean of Undergraduate Affairs. David has won the “Best Teaching Award” three times. He is now working on two books the first of which examines existential threats to Israel in light of the lessons of the destruction of the ancient Israelite kingdoms. The second book assesses China’s efforts to extend its influence in the Global South and the impact this has on American interests.
David lives in Stevenson, Maryland with his wife Maureen. He has three daughters and three grandchildren.
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.
