Tag: human security

Human Security in Retreat: The Resurgence of Realpolitik and the Crisis of People-Centred Security

Human Security in Retreat: The Resurgence of Realpolitik and the Crisis of People-Centred Security

Posted by | Jul 29, 2026 |

Since its formal introduction in the 1994 Human Development Report, the concept of human security has represented the global imperative to promoting the wellbeing and dignity of people worldwide. With both states and non-state actors recognising and endorsing its utility, there has been little doubt about the relevance of human security in driving population-centred security until now. Recent events with geopolitical implications, such as the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine conflicts and the fallouts from nationalist turns in the global North, appear to have challenged the relevance of the concept vis-à-vis Realpolitik and the dominance of state-centricity in global politics. With the contemporary geopolitical space set to witness many more of these trends, the future of human security may be in jeopardy as the concept stands to be relegated to the realm of political convenience. This paper assesses the sustained viability of human security in an evolving geopolitical landscape largely shaped by Realpolitik.

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Perception of Sea Level Rise on Human Security: A Qualitative Case Study of the Keta Municipality in the Volta Region of Ghana

Perception of Sea Level Rise on Human Security: A Qualitative Case Study of the Keta Municipality in the Volta Region of Ghana

Posted by | Dec 29, 2025 |

The local perspective on a phenomenon is critical for assessing its consequences for human security and for policy initiatives. Using a qualitative case-study approach, this study explores local perspectives on sea-level rise and human security in the Keta Municipality of Ghana. Grounded in the Human Security Theory framework, and purposively collecting data through observation, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, we found that sea-level rise is perceived as described by its effects and, locally, known as “Tsafu dzagbo”. It is perceived to be caused by sand mining along the coast, with economic, social, and psychological effects on human security. These effects include job and livelihood losses, frequent outbreaks of water-related diseases, and displacement, among others, resulting in significant disruption to the municipality’s well-being. In response, both local and modern approaches have been adopted to address the effects. The local approaches include planting mangroves along the coast and using local knowledge to forecast and prepare in advance. In contrast, modern approaches include constructing groynes and promoting modern agricultural practices, thereby improving resilience in the Municipality. We conclude that sea-level rise directly affects the well-being of the inhabitants of the Keta Municipality, thereby negatively impacting human security. We recommend synergising local and modern approaches to achieve more sustained resilience in the Municipality.

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Energy, Vulnerability and Human Security in Zambia: A Capability Approach to an Inclusive Energy Transition

Energy, Vulnerability and Human Security in Zambia: A Capability Approach to an Inclusive Energy Transition

Posted by | Dec 16, 2024 |

Over Zambia is one of the countries in Sub-Saharan Africa facing energy challenges due to climate vulnerability caused by the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The study uses Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum’s Capability Approach to analyse the vulnerabilities resulting from Zambia’s quest for energy transition. This theoretical framework is critical to understanding the challenges in ensuring an inclusive energy transition process in the country. The methodology and data were mainly from secondary sources. The main argument in this article is that although Zambia has embarked on an energy transition, it is important to consider key human security vulnerabilities in this process. The article shows that Zambia’s electricity generation capacity has continued to dwindle primarily due to a decrease in hydro generation, which is highly dependent on rainfall. The study also shows that the Zambian government has devised several strategies and policies aimed at energy transitioning to alleviate the problem. These strategies and policies include promoting non-renewable energy sources like coal, oil, and natural gas to renewable and sustainable energy sources like solar. However, the study shows that while Zambia’s energy transition offers long-term benefits, it poses immediate and significant security challenges for the country. These include economic disruptions, infrastructure vulnerabilities, environmental conflicts and policy and regulatory challenges. This article contributes to the ongoing discourse regarding the human security challenges and opportunities for energy transition in Global South countries.

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