Global security is the ability of states to provide their citizens with protection, stability and prosperity.
It includes the full range of non-military threats to a country or region’s well-being including economic, food, health, environmental, personal, and community security. It’s often framed as freedom from fear and want, and it’s more holistic than traditional security concerns.
As the world becomes more interconnected and complex, threats that were once local are now capable of affecting people and nations globally. From terrorist attacks to escalating climate change, the stakes are high for international stability and peaceful coexistence.
Security experts recognize the need for a new model that better addresses these rising challenges. One example is the shift from military to human security. Human security is based on the principle that all people are entitled to a life free from hunger, disease and lack of access to basic services such as education, clean water and electricity.
Another major security challenge is the growing prevalence of cybercrime. Cybercriminals are increasingly launching ransomware attacks that target businesses and governments. This increasing complexity and scale of cyber threat requires a new, more holistic approach that includes security awareness training, cybersecurity policies and robust data protection.
To address the growing number of threats, the U.S. must foster security partnerships, rely on the normative pressures of international institutions and adjust the form and focus of its military forces. It also needs to build common ground with China, reversing feelings of alienation and bullying that influence it to disregard the concerns of other nations.