Human Security, Borders, and Collective Memory: Exploring the Intersection

Human Security, Borders, and Collective Memory: Exploring the Intersection

Introduction:
The issues of human security, borders, and collective memory have become intertwined in the discourse surrounding the European Union's periphery. This article aims to delve into the complexities surrounding these topics, exploring how humanitarian discourse, security debates, and the construction of collective memory shape political decisions and policies. By analyzing empirical research and various sources, we aim to shed light on the connections between these concepts and provide actionable advice for addressing these challenges effectively.

Humanitarian Discourse and Migrants' Rights:
Empirical research has revealed the emergence of a humanitarian discourse centered around the defense of migrants' rights and the right to be free from inhuman treatment. This discourse gained prominence in the EU periphery when the Italian government denied a port of safety to the SeaWatch3 vessel in January 2019. The focus on alleviating migrants' physical and mental suffering highlights the growing importance of humanitarian considerations in border security discussions.

Security Debates and Border Closures:
Traditionally, security debates have played a significant role in international relations literature and EU politics. The concept of security has become closely intertwined with borders over time. During the peak of migrant arrivals in Europe across the Mediterranean in the mid-2010s, security threats dominated political discourse, leading to calls for border closures. Center-right political leaders often portrayed migrants as criminals who should not be accepted in EU territory, resulting in the adoption of exclusionary policies.

Italy's Role in Securing EU's Mediterranean Borders:
As a central Mediterranean country, Italy plays a crucial role in securing the EU's borders. In recent years, the Italian government has adopted a "closed ports" approach, denying NGOs conducting Search and Rescue (SAR) operations in the Mediterranean authorization to disembark rescued migrants. The denial of a place of safety to the SeaWatch3 vessel highlighted conflicting discourses and security priorities. Understanding Italy's stance is essential in comprehending the broader dynamics of EU border security.

Memory and Political Constraints:
The memories of war are deeply intertwined with political constraints and incentives imposed by the Cold War era. The construction of socialist societies in the East and European unity in the West influenced the way war memories were shaped. The relevance of memory lies in how it is personally reworked, officially recast, and sometimes violently re-instilled, especially in the aftermath of conflicts. Memory shapes power constellations, both constraining and enabling policies in the present.

Collective Memory and Politics:
Collective or national memory, as well as mass individual memory, have significant implications for politics. It is crucial to identify the carriers of personal and collective memory and their historical and sociological locations. Crises serve as battlegrounds for the manipulation of memory, as different actors vie for control over the narrative. The myth of complete victimization by the Germans during World War II, for example, created social solidarity even among those who had benefited from the occupation.

Actionable Advice:

1. Foster a balanced discourse: It is essential to promote a balanced discourse that takes into account both security concerns and humanitarian considerations. By finding common ground and engaging in constructive dialogue, policymakers can work towards comprehensive solutions that prioritize human security without neglecting border security.

2. Invest in integration and inclusion: Instead of resorting to exclusionary policies, governments should focus on fostering integration and inclusion. By investing in programs that facilitate the assimilation of migrants into host societies, policymakers can address the root causes of security concerns and promote social cohesion.

3. Enhance collective memory education: Recognizing the power of collective memory, policymakers should prioritize education that promotes accurate historical narratives and encourages critical thinking. By fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of history, societies can move away from divisive narratives and create a more inclusive and empathetic political environment.

Conclusion:
The intersection of human security, borders, and collective memory presents a complex and multifaceted challenge for policymakers and societies alike. By acknowledging the importance of humanitarian discourse, engaging in balanced security debates, and understanding the influence of memory on political decisions, we can work towards a more inclusive and secure future. Through actionable advice such as fostering a balanced discourse, investing in integration, and enhancing collective memory education, we can navigate the complexities of these issues and create a more just and cohesive society.