1. To what extent should internationalism be pursued?

2. 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

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

4. 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

5. 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.

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

7. 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

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

9. 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).

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

11. 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.

12. Liberal Internationalism
Politically: League of Nations ( )
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)

13. 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

14. 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

15. 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

16. 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.

17. 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

18. 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)

19. 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

20. 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)