To what extent should internationalism be pursued?

What is Internationalism? A community of interests amongst nations the doctrine that nations should cooperate because their common interests are more important than their differences A political movement which advocates greater economic and political cooperation among nations for the theoretical benefit of all

Background For years, countries pursued their own national interests. This often led to colonization, conflicts with other countries, and two world wars.

Early attempts at internationalism… Throughout the time period of wide spread nationalism and focus on national interests, some leaders attempted to bridge the gap between national self interest, and cooperation. Ex. League of Nations

Background Gradually, the world came to the understanding that all countries were interconnected, and one’s national interests may inadvertently affect another nation After WWII, the world realized that appeasement and isolationism were not viable options… internationalism became more enticing.

Understanding Internationalism Internationalism can best be understood by the goals of the involvement… Three visions of internationalism: Hegemonic internationalism Revolutionary internationalism Liberal internationalism

Hegemonic Internationalism The belief that the world is being integrated based on unequal terms with the dominance of one nation or nation-state over others. Ex. Colonialism Ex. United States Many believe hegemonic internationalism has the greatest impact in shaping the modern world

Hegemonic Internationalism Example: Reflected in language and culture English becoming dominant language because of colonization and globalization.

Revolutionary Internationalism The belief that conflicts within societies are determined by international factors and alliances Extends history back to American and French Revolutions, and in more recent times, revolutions in Latin America (Che Guevara) and Iran (Ayatollah Khomeini).

Revolutionary Internationalism Revolutionary internationalism is not always violent Feminism or environmentalism can be seen as revolutionary internationalism

Liberal Internationalism The belief that through greater interaction and co-operation, nations and nation-states can achieve common goals, especially peace and prosperity Example: Canada Common purpose is primarily to create wealth and peace, and is often assumed one would lead to the other.

Liberal Internationalism Politically: League of Nations (1919-1920) United Nations (1945) Humanitarian efforts by nation-states and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to improve the welfare of poorer nations Ex. World Vision: children’s rights, address HIV/AIDS, provide disaster relief Economic: Free trade networks (reduce conflict between nations)

Liberal Internationalism Supporters assume that interaction and cooperation between nations is mutually beneficial However, critics point out, that well-off countries are often better served, and disaster relief have been accused of imposing donor country beliefs onto the recipients Still others feel that efforts fall far short, and nations who spout liberal internationalist sentiments need to step it up

Motivation for Internationalism Why might nations choose to participate in international affairs? In general: Self-Determination Humanitarianism and Global Citizenship Peace and Security Economic Stability

Self-Determination What is self-determination? The ability and desire to fulfill its people’s economic, social, cultural, and political needs so that the nation can continue to exist and grow. Some groups feel it is best achieved through international involvement What if one nation’s interests negatively affect another, or the whole world? Ex. Brazil (rainforest) Ex. USA/Iraq

Humanitarianism and Global Citizenship Many individuals and nations/nation-states choose to get involved in international affairs for humanitarian reasons Ex. Tsunami relief in the Indian Ocean Hurricane Katrina Outbreak of violence (Lebanon 2006) Responses range from individual generosity and donations, to organized governmental and non-governmental initiatives Much of the humanitarian action relates to assisting other nations with long-term economic and social development, not just short-term crises.

Humanitarianism and Global Citizenship Peacekeeping and Peacemaking Both are important parts of humanitarian involvement Peacekeepers monitor and observe peace processes in post-conflict areas and assist ex-combatants in implementing the peace agreements they may have signed. Ex. Power-sharing arrangements Ex. Electoral support Ex. Strengthening rule of law Ex. Economic and social development Peacemaking is intervention designed to ensure peace Peacemakers are able to use force to ensure the peace

Peace and Security Ability of nations to control their destiny is also affected by the level of security they are able to provide for their citizens Security alliance organizations aim to provide member nations with greater ability to maintain secure borders (NATO, UN)

Economic Stability Internationalism can be linked to ensuring economic stability within a nation-state Ex.? Economic interdependence can be a national interest Ex. NAFTA (North American Free trade Agreement) Free trade networks seek to break down barriers (tariffs) that restrict trade

Motivation against Internationalism Why might nations choose not to participate in international affairs? Leaders and nations differ in the extent to which they feel they are affected by political instability elsewhere Isolationism- a policy of choosing not to become involved in the affairs of other nations (militarily or through trade)