June 11, 2020
Bill O’Grady and Patrick Fearon-Hernandez deliver a compelling presentation on the concept of Hegemony, defined as the leadership or dominance of one country over another. They expound on the Hegemonic Stability theory, positing that a hegemon must provide two crucial public goods: global security and a reserve currency. The duo contends that the U.S., post-WWII, has assumed the role of a hegemonic state, but growing weariness among Americans regarding the sacrifices made for these global public goods has rendered current policies and structures unsustainable. As America gradually withdraws from this hegemonic role, the repercussions for global stability are anticipated to be significant. Drawing parallels to America’s post-WWII influence in Europe, the presenters predict a shift in reliance toward a hegemonic state in Europe, with Germany emerging as a prominent contender. They highlight the creation of the EU and Eurozone as pivotal steps toward European unification, acknowledging the existing system’s advantages and drawbacks. With the U.S. scaling back its hegemonic role, there is a notable push for European countries to coalesce behind a benevolent Germany, emphasizing the intricate dynamics shaping global power structures.
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.
