Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The concept of security has evolved significantly since the end of the Cold War. Traditionally, security was largely understood in terms of state security, focusing on military threats and territorial integrity. However, the emergence of new threats – climate change, pandemics, forced displacement, and violent extremism – has broadened the security agenda to encompass the well-being of individuals. While economic security, defined as access to sustainable livelihoods and economic resources, remains crucial, it is increasingly recognized that global human security – the protection of individuals from critical and pervasive threats to their lives, livelihoods, and dignity – must be emphasized alongside it. The COVID-19 pandemic starkly illustrated this point, revealing vulnerabilities beyond purely economic indicators.
Defining Economic and Human Security
Economic Security refers to the security of livelihoods, access to resources, and the ability to participate fully in the economy. It encompasses factors like employment, income, access to essential goods and services, and financial stability. It is often measured through indicators like GDP growth, employment rates, and poverty levels.
Human Security, as articulated in the 1994 Human Development Report, shifts the focus from the state to the individual. It encompasses seven dimensions: economic, food, health, environmental, personal, community, and political security. It emphasizes protecting people from critical and pervasive threats and empowering them to live with dignity.
Limitations of Focusing Solely on Economic Security
While economic growth is essential for development, it does not automatically translate into human security. Several examples demonstrate this disconnect:
- China (pre-2010s): Rapid economic growth was accompanied by significant income inequality, environmental degradation, and limited political freedoms, leading to social unrest and human rights concerns.
- Saudi Arabia: Despite being a wealthy nation due to oil reserves, Saudi Arabia faces challenges related to political repression, gender inequality, and limited personal freedoms.
- Pre-2011 Egypt: Economic liberalization under Mubarak led to growth, but benefits were unevenly distributed, contributing to widespread discontent and ultimately, the Arab Spring uprisings.
These examples illustrate that prioritizing economic indicators without addressing issues like human rights, political participation, and social justice can create vulnerabilities and instability.
The Importance of Emphasizing Human Security
Investing in human security yields multiple benefits:
- Reduced Conflict and Instability: Addressing grievances related to poverty, discrimination, and lack of opportunity can prevent radicalization and violent extremism.
- Improved Public Health: Investing in healthcare, sanitation, and food security strengthens resilience to pandemics and other health crises.
- Enhanced Economic Productivity: A healthy, educated, and secure population is more productive and contributes more to economic growth.
- Strengthened Governance: Promoting good governance, rule of law, and human rights fosters trust and accountability, leading to more stable and effective institutions.
Example: Costa Rica has prioritized human security by investing heavily in education, healthcare, and environmental protection. This has resulted in a high quality of life, political stability, and a relatively strong economy despite lacking significant natural resources.
Synergy Between Economic and Human Security
Economic security and human security are not mutually exclusive; they are mutually reinforcing. A strong economy provides the resources necessary to invest in human security, while a secure and empowered population is essential for sustained economic growth.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted by the UN in 2015, exemplify this synergy. They recognize that achieving economic prosperity requires addressing social, environmental, and governance challenges simultaneously. SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) are particularly relevant to this discussion.
The European Union’s approach to migration also demonstrates this interplay. While managing economic aspects of migration is important, the EU increasingly recognizes the need to address the human security needs of migrants and refugees, including providing access to healthcare, education, and legal protection.
| Dimension of Human Security | Impact on Economic Security |
|---|---|
| Health Security | Reduced healthcare costs, increased workforce productivity |
| Food Security | Improved nutrition, enhanced labor capacity |
| Political Security | Stable governance, attracting investment |
| Environmental Security | Sustainable resource management, reduced disaster risk |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while economic security remains a vital component of overall security, it is insufficient on its own. Global human security must be emphasized alongside it to address the complex and interconnected threats facing individuals and communities worldwide. Prioritizing human security not only upholds fundamental rights and dignity but also contributes to long-term economic stability, peace, and sustainable development. A holistic approach that integrates both economic and human security considerations is essential for building a more just and secure world.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.