November 10, 2009
Steve Forbes discusses the relationship between the U.S. economy and geopolitics, illustrating historical examples of this connection. Prior to the Great Depression, the Nazi Party only held two percent of the vote. However, when the U.S. economy suffered during the 1920s, that impact was felt by the global markets. The Nazi Party capitalized on economic turmoil in order to fuel their political rise. Thus, domestic economics and international politics cannot be separated from one another. Forbes then brings his argument into the present moment of 2009 and the Recession. After explaining the failures that led to the Recession, such as the Federal Reserve, inflation, and mortgage lending policies, Forbes outlines policies that he believes are conducive to recovering the economy. Of utmost importance, he claims, is the stabilization of the dollar. A weak dollar signifies a weak global currency – people become hesitant to invest in trade with the U.S. economy and hold their wealth in U.S. dollars. This leads to an increase in protectionist policy and a decrease in free trade. As previously mentioned, when the U.S. economy is not a stable, reliable player in the global economy, geopolitical unrest is often forecasted. Economic protectionism preceded World War II, and U.S. leaders must be careful to prevent its acceleration.
https://bcfausa.org/video/whither-the-economy-and-the-idea-of-entrepreneurial-capitalism/
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.
