Five of the most serious international problems facing the world today are:
1) the proliferation of WMD
2) international terrorism
3) economic development in impoverished countries
4) international financial stability
5) climate change
In which of these five areas do you expect to see the most progress towards significant solutions in the next 20 years?
In which areas do you think progress/cooperation is least likely to occur?
Why
Do you know what the key word is in this assignment?
YOU!
We'll be glad to comment on YOUR answers.
So I was thinking either 1 or 5 for most progress.
1 because it is a problem that has a very real feel of life and death. Increased in WMD increases likelihood of nuclear warfare. Esp with Iran and N. Korea taking up the headlines of today. But then, this issue has been around since the Cold War, and if a country is determined to attain nuclear arms, it will. Though with Kim nearing his death and Iran still in political and social turmoil, this issue will abate, but it wouldn't really be a 'solution.' Thus, if another state starts to get arms, its another new problem. But than the NPT has been successful at stopping proliferation and setting the norm that good countries don't need nukes.
But for climate change, its a issue backed up by lots of scientific evidence, and there have been movements to halt it. The Kyoto Protocol (though largely unsuccessful), the Montreal Protocol (more successful), and meetings at Copenhegan have done well to raise awareness. And the alt. energy industry has been making great strides. Also, climate change is one everyday people can help, one that can be taught in schools, and one that people can visually see with weather changes. Movies such as Day after Tomorrow and An Inconviennent Truth also help spread awareness. Thus over the next 20 years, with gov't subsidizing alt. energies and making treaties to work together, and the common people being more aware and taking greater action (wasting less and buying Priuses) could lead to a solution to climate change. But then, its hard to transition from awareness to action. And the lack of success at Copehegan and Kyoto is discouraging. And if youre a leader, and on your desk are two issues: climate change and WMD, I feel that WMD would draw greater attention.
Suggestions?
To determine which of these five areas may see the most progress towards significant solutions in the next 20 years, we can consider several factors such as current trends, ongoing efforts, and global cooperation.
1) The Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD): Progress in this area depends on diplomatic efforts, arms control agreements, and non-proliferation treaties. Some positive signs include the reduction of nuclear stockpiles by major powers and the increased scrutiny on WMD programs. However, the progress is slow and hindered by the actions of rogue states and non-state actors.
2) International Terrorism: Combating terrorism requires international collaboration, intelligence sharing, and addressing root causes such as political instability and radicalization. While there have been coordinated efforts to combat terrorism, the complex nature of the issue makes it challenging to completely eliminate this threat. Continued cooperation and technological advancements in intelligence sharing may lead to significant progress.
3) Economic Development in Impoverished Countries: This area has seen some progress due to initiatives like the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, foreign aid, and investment. However, significant challenges remain, including corruption, political instability, and unequal distribution of resources. Progress depends on sustained efforts, improved governance, investment in infrastructure, and trade partnerships.
4) International Financial Stability: Cooperation among countries, regulatory frameworks, and global financial institutions play crucial roles in maintaining financial stability. Progress in this area requires addressing issues such as economic inequality, ensuring sound fiscal policies, and preventing financial crises. Ongoing efforts include strengthening regulatory frameworks and international financial cooperation, but the potential for progress may vary depending on geopolitical dynamics and economic interests.
5) Climate Change: Climate change poses one of the most pressing global challenges. International cooperation, commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and investment in clean energy are key factors for progress. The Paris Agreement, despite some setbacks, demonstrates global efforts towards addressing climate change. Technological advancements and public awareness are expected to drive significant progress in the coming years.
Considering these factors, it is difficult to predict with certainty which area will see the most progress in the next 20 years. However, climate change and economic development in impoverished countries have shown relatively higher potential for significant solutions due to increased international focus, ongoing efforts, and the urgency of these issues. On the other hand, areas like the proliferation of WMD and international terrorism may face more significant obstacles due to political tensions, conflicting interests, and the complex nature of these challenges.