Say Goodbye to National Security

This essay critically examines the concept of national security, arguing that it is a Western-centric paradigm that often exacerbates insecurity in non-Western countries. By tracing the historical evolution of national security, the essay highlights its focus on state sovereignty and territorial integrity, which fails to address the complexities of contemporary global challenges. Through case studies, it is demonstrated how the United States' pursuit of national security has led to insecurity in various regions, underlining the limitations of a narrowly defined national security paradigm. In response, the essay proposes a shift towards new security concepts that reflect the interconnected, interdependent nature of today's world. These alternatives—Resilience Security, Harmony Security, Interconnected Security, and Generational Security—emphasize inclusivity, sustainability, and cooperation. They aim to place human well-being, environmental stewardship, and the prosperity of future generations at the center of security considerations, offering a more holistic, equitable, and sustainable approach to global security challenges.