Human Insecurity: A Global Vulnerability

Human Security is an emerging paradigm that studies the global vulnerabilities that affect the human population. It places emphasis on human security as the priority rather than national security. As noted in the General Assembly resolution 66/290, “human security is an approach to assist the Member States in identifying and addressing widespread and cross-cutting challenges to the survival, livelihood, and dignity of their people.”

It calls for “people-centered, comprehensive, context-specific and prevention-oriented responses that strengthen the protection and empowerment of all people.” For millions of people around the world, their lives are faced with various forms of insecurity from famine to regional conflict to displacement and more.

Governments are facing a new threat, which is not external but rather one that is internal. The wave of the military-industrial complex and the pursuit of military power may be slowing down as the existential threats to human lives are not bombs from neighboring countries but poor governance, structural violence, and internal militarism.

Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing high levels of human insecurity. Somalia, Sudan (Darfur), Ivory Coast remains highly volatile and unstable. For example, in Sudan, the removal of former President Omar Al-Bashir has transitioned the country under a military council rule. June 3rd marked a high number of protestors being attacked and killed by the military for speaking out against the current state of affairs.

There are many examples of insecurity all over the world. Thus prompting universities and research tanks to delve into human security issues and how to find solutions and policies that best protect human lives. The great asset to any given country is its people.

A healthy and vital citizenry leads to a prosperous and progressively state. Capitalism has caused governments and multi-national corporations to put the almighty dollars ahead of the needs of human beings. Our biggest global vulnerability today can be seen in the high levels of poverty, lack of access to quality healthcare, the migrant crisis and more that is indicated on human development indexes. Human security is not just a catchphrase, but a necessity for achieving sustainable development.

Yetunde A. Odugbesan-Omede, Ph.D., is a Professor of Global Affairs and Politics at Farmingdale State College. She is a policy advisor and political analyst.