BANGLADESH INSTITUTE OF INTERNATIONAL AND STRATEGIC STUDIES

TOWARDS FREEDOM FROM FEAR : AN AGENDA FOR HUMAN SECURITY

Author: David Preston, Don Hubert

DOI Link: https://www/doi.org/10.56888/ BIISSj2000v21n3a4

ABSTRACT

While the security of most countries has been enhanced in the post-Cold War period, the security of many people bas not. Due to the persistence of civil wars and failing states, coupled with growing transnational threats such as the trade in small arms and narcotics, freedom from fear remains an elusive goal. Security policy needs to become ''people-centred,'' and to he refocused on a broad range of threats. Addressing individual insecurity enhances national security by strengthening the state's legitimacy and stability, and complements the promotion of human development by creating a safer and more conducive environment. For the past three years, Canada and its partners have been promoting "Human security." Two clear examples of this perspective are the banning of landmines and the establishment of an International Criminal Court. It is at the heart of an initiative on the protection of civilians in armed conflict within the Security Council, and the growing movement to respond to the needs of children in armed conflict. In the face of genocide and crimes against humanity, such a perspective also demands military intervention by the international community. These issues require urgent attention and can best he addressed through a new approach to diplomacy based on partnerships with countries, international organizations and NGOs, and by direct engagement with civil society and the public at large.