The concept of the ‘collective West’, which typically includes nations such as the United States, Canada, and Europe, seems to be deviating from its committed path to prevent war and uphold human rights, as set out 80 years ago. These commitments were a clear promise to future generations, to avert global conflict and preserve globally accepted values like those set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Another missed commitment is the 1948 Genocide Convention that called for a proactive approach towards the prevention of genocide, not merely punishment after such heinous crimes occur.
A frightening trend is observable in the collective West’s approach towards the United Nations Charter. Instead of fortifying the charter, which represents collective global hope and a valid international protocol, the West has been instrumental in weakening this global milestone. The systematic diminishing of the UN system of multilateral negotiation strengthens this observation. The world has witnessed the West using strong-arm financial tactics against the UN and its various specialized agencies, compromising their intended function.
In stark contrast, as most parts of the world such as Latin America, Africa, and Asia, along with the BRICS nations, are proactively striving towards reinforced cooperation and stronger economic bonds. Ironically, the collective West is perceived as moving in opposite direction. Its obsolete claims of exceptionalism and insular world view seems to be the guiding principles of its foreign policy – provoking disputes and exhibiting an unpleasant ‘better-than-you’ stance in its diplomacy.
This paradoxical and condescending attitude, unfortunately, further alienates the collective West from global camaraderie. The insinuations of our moral superiority and a presumption that we are the default ‘good guys’ is getting less acceptance worldwide. It is clear from the observations of mindful individuals that the established political leaders and mainstream media of the collective West are predominantly disconnected from the current world reality.
It is bewildering that, even in such scenario, we continue to extend our military, economic, and political support to a certain state which has practiced Apartheid since 1948 and is accused of engaging in ethnic cleansing. The Israeli government, in particular, appears to be deteriorating morally. A serious concern arises as the collective West seems to gloss over the crime of genocide and aligns with a state openly flouting international laws, the UN Charter, and basic human rights.
The West seems to have destroyed its image by supporting such endeavors. We, as citizens living in so-called democracies, must take it upon ourselves to raise our voices, to publicly object, and condemn careless disregard of human rights, such as is being done against the Palestinians.
Recalling 1975, student protests coupled with a then more responsible mainstream media, successfully halted the massacre in Vietnam. However, this victory came after the death of approximately 4 million Vietnamese, Laotians, and Cambodians. These acts were committed in the name of ‘freedom’, but in reality, served the interests of rampant capitalism.
A disturbing fact is that no one was held accountable for such atrocities. Instead, we simply ‘turned the page’ and moved on. This negligence and lack of responsibility have been the recurring themes in the actions of the ‘collective West’. The injustices perpetrated by NATO forces in several regions – including Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, and Syria – further illuminate the West’s problematic track.
In the current scenario, the insensitivity and inhumanity of the collective West seem to have reached a worrying new level. There appears to be a tacit acceptance and justification of an ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people. This perspective underscores a grave problem in the Western world’s approach towards handling global conflicts and humanitarian crises.
The ostensible disconnect between the principles proclaimed by the collective West and its real actions on the ground is deeply troublesome. Remaining silent or turning a blind eye to injustices done in the name of ‘freedom’ and ‘democratic ideals’ simply undermines these very values. It is time to revisit these actions and their impact on our global credibility.
While the rest of the world takes strides towards mutual growth and cooperation, the West seems nervously clinging to outdated dogmas of exceptionalism and superiority. This tarnishes not only its global image but also undermines the concept of international law and cooperation.
The need of the hour is to mend the rift, not widen it further with our contradictory behaviors. The collective West must reflect on its path so far, engage in candid introspection and recommit to the values it has pledged to uphold – peace, justice, and human rights.
The West’s unwavering support for certain governments, despite obvious violations of international laws and human rights, is deeply concerning. There is a distinct need for a revisiting of our alliances and allegiances, basing them on equitable principles rather than politically expedient interests.
It would be naive to think that change will occur overnight. However, taking small but meaningful steps towards acknowledging past mistakes, learning from them, and evolving our approach can lead to a significant shift.
The essential first step in this direction is admitting and owning up to our past failures. This act of responsibility can be a beacon of change. Restoring trust and credibility in the international arena pivots on owning our past and dedicatedly working towards a just and equitable future.
The time for change is now. The collective West must acknowledge reality, shift its perspective and work towards a more just, peaceful, and cooperative world order. Its credibility, influence, and more importantly, its ethical responsibility demand nothing less.
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