Reassessing National Security in the Age of Climate Change and Pandemics

The recent hurricanes demonstrate the urgent need to consider climate change as a national security threat, surpassing traditional adversaries. Climate scientists link the increased intensity of storms to warming oceans, while the Pentagon acknowledges the crisis as an existential threat. Historical perspectives on national security, as articulated by FDR, suggest a need for broader definitions that include citizen welfare amid emerging issues such as pandemics and climate-induced conflicts.

The recent occurrences of two powerful hurricanes within a fortnight have starkly highlighted the severe impact of rapid climate change, signaling a threat that surpasses even traditional adversaries such as terrorists and authoritarian regimes. The devastating Hurricane Milton has profoundly affected parts of Florida, while climate experts assert that the escalation of storm intensity is directly correlated with the warming of ocean waters. Just weeks earlier, Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc on communities in Asheville, North Carolina, a location previously thought to be shielded from the worst effects of climate change, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 232 lives. Reclassifying climate change as a pressing national security issue is not merely a progressive viewpoint, but rather a pragmatic and realistic assessment of the situation. The United States Department of Defense has reiterated this perspective, highlighting climate change as a principal threat. As articulated by Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin three years ago, “We face all kinds of threats in our line of work, but few of them truly deserve to be called existential. The climate crisis does.” Notably, several key US Navy installations situated in low-lying regions, such as Norfolk and Virginia Beach in Virginia, are under threat from rising sea levels attributed to climate change. In response, the Pentagon is actively seeking to mitigate these risks. Additionally, the phenomenon is contributing to a growing population of climate refugees, exacerbating conflicts in regions like Sudan, which is currently experiencing one of the most brutal conflicts worldwide. Historically, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt possessed a more expansive understanding of national security compared to the current, more limited definition. According to historian Peter Roady’s work, “The Contest Over National Security,” Roosevelt viewed national security as encompassing the well-being of all American citizens, exemplified by the Social Security program, which he established in 1935. In his State of the Union address on January 6, 1941, amidst the rise of the Nazis, Roosevelt articulated the importance of securing “freedom from want,” emphasizing the need for economic assurance worldwide. The Cold War redefined the parameters of national security, prompting a shift toward a narrow focus on protection against competitors and external attacks. This redefinition persisted following the 9/11 attacks, evident in the George W. Bush administration’s 2002 national security strategy which stated, “We will defend the peace by fighting terrorists and tyrants… Defending our Nation against its enemies is the first and fundamental commitment of the Federal Government.” Today, it is imperative to reevaluate what constitutes national security, as climate change is not the only existential threat; the COVID-19 pandemic claimed approximately 1.2 million American lives, a figure comparable to American war casualties since the nation’s founding. Policymakers are increasingly pressed to prepare for future pandemics exacerbated by global travel. A report from the non-partisan COVID Crisis Group indicates that the United States remains inadequately equipped for the next pandemic. The aftermath of the recent hurricanes may compel American legislators to consider serious strategies to mitigate climate change effects, such as limiting new developments in flood-prone areas. Following Hurricane Milton, it is crucial for Americans to reflect on whether they truly feel more secure from threats such as climate change and pandemics. If the answer is no, it may be high time to engage in a genuine discourse regarding what constitutes national security today.

The recent hurricanes, particularly Hurricane Milton, have spotlighted the urgent need to address climate change as a national security issue. This urgency is not just a matter of environmental preservation, but a recognition of the broader implications on public safety, economic stability, and geopolitical dynamics. Historically, national security has been narrowly defined, focusing primarily on military threats. However, the evolving landscape, shaped by climate impacts and global health crises, necessitates a broader perspective that includes the well-being and security of individuals and communities.

In conclusion, the devastating effects of recent hurricanes underscore the need for a fundamental shift in how we perceive national security. By recognizing climate change and public health crises as critical threats, American policymakers can better safeguard the lives and livelihoods of citizens. A comprehensive dialogue is essential to redefine national security for the modern era, prioritizing proactive measures against existential threats.

Original Source: www.bundle.app