Sustaining humanism in a power ‘de-centred’, pluralistic world
Sustaining humanism in a more power ‘de-centred, polycentric and pluralistic international order’ emerges as a principal question from a thought-provoking public lecture that was delivered in Colombo recently. The fact that yesterday was ‘World Humanitarian Day’ lends immense topicality to the poser. The main speaker was Prof. Amitav Acharya, Distinguished Professor of International Relations at…
A principal question arises in sustaining humanism within a more decentralized, polycentric, and pluralistic international order, as highlighted during a thought-provoking lecture in Colombo. The event took place on World Humanitarian Day, emphasizing the topical nature of the discussion. Prof. Amitav Acharya, a distinguished professor from the American University and UNESCO Chair in Transnational Challenges and Governance, delivered the main address.
He noted a shift from multi-polarity to a "Global Multiplex" order, where power is distributed among great powers, middle and regional powers, international organizations, and non-state actors. This shift is evidenced by the emergence of BRICS, China's growing influence, Iran's impact on global politics, and the potential decline of US dominance in the Middle East.
Additionally, the rise of an "Islamic NATO" centered on Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan further illustrates the shift towards regional powers and their alliances.
The proliferation of organizations advocating for climate change and identity politics across the globe signifies a global power configuration that is increasingly decentralized and pluralistic. However, concerns remain regarding the safety of the world for ordinary people as military power consolidation and the prioritization of "Mutually Assured Destruction" (MAD) threaten global stability.
The solution to these challenges lies in value-based politics or humanism. International politics must detach itself from military power considerations and move towards a human-centered approach. The commemoration of Prof. Shelton U. Kodikara highlighted the importance of value-based politics, as exemplified by former Sri Lankan President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga's call for the South to return to the norms of Non-alignment and the Bandung Principles.
Humanitarian organizations like Medicins sans Frontieres (MSF) also emphasize the need to keep humanity at the core of global affairs, particularly in light of World Humanitarian Day.
Written by urgent.news from The Island Sri Lanka's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
