Similar to other processes of globalization, armed conflicts and insecurity are increasingly linking different places around the world to each other.
Examples of this can be seen in the trafficking of arms across borderlines, drugs trade to finance wars, refugee flows to escape violence and the global war on terror. In the mean time, despite the financial crisis and its aftershocks around the globe, there seems to be a sustained upward trend in military spending, arms production and arms transfers around the globe.
These developments combined are an indication of the dominating perception that military responses to risks of conflict are the most effective means of ensuring security and stability. That these measures often breach human rights seems to be taken as an unfortunate side effect.
The focus on the glamorization of war, the appeal to nationalistic feelings, demonization of the other side, creation and manipulation of perceived threats and use of language such as the "war on terror", terrorism, and national interest and security, reinforce the logic of military action being the only way to make sure people are secure. The media have been instrumental in creating this myth. The media sensationalizing military missions while overlooking human stories that are linked to such processes follow the same pattern and overshadow the ability to formulate alternatives for peace and stability.
What is ultimately needed is recognition that current security measures will be ineffective in the long-term and that a radical rethink of what is meant by "security" is long overdue. Human rights are not a side issue and as long as they are not upheld, people will be left with grievances - causing new conflicts in the future. It is time to look for alternative response, point out that militarization brings insecurity and that formulating models of non-military solutions is necessary. We can only then come to true security with respect for human rights in our globalizing world.
Moderation:
Marte Hellema
Program Manager for Public Outreach, Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict , The Netherlands
Panelists:
Mark Belinsky
Founder and Co-Director, Digital Democracy, USA
Nighat Said Khan
Executive Director, Applied Socio-Economic Research Resource Centre
Víctor García Zapata
Servicios y Asesoría para la Paz (SERAPAZ)
