Human Security in an Interconnected World: Bridging Divides, Building Equity

Dr Hawa Noor is a researcher and analyst specializing in human security, international politics, security studies, and political religion. She earned her Ph.D. from the Bremen International Graduate School of Social Sciences (BIGSSS), focusing on the motivations of former Kenyan participants in al-Shabaab. She is affiliated to the institute for Intercultural and International Studies (InIIS) at the University of Bremen and the Africa Centre for Transregional Research (ACT) at the University of Freiburg, Germany. 

Dr. Hawa is also involved in fieldwork safety initiatives and global engagement projects. She is the author of Mobilization for Violent Politicized Islam, that interrogates factors driving individuals to join armed militant groups.

This interview has been authorised for publication by Dr Hawa Noor.

We thank you, Dr Hawa Noor for accepting our interview with the Saint Pierre International Security Center.

SPCIS: In your view, what are the key challenges to ensuring human security in today's rapidly changing global landscape?

 

Dr Hawa Noor: There are various issues affecting global security today.

Firstly, there is often miscommunication or a lack of understanding between different parts of the world. Since you mentioned the North and South frequently, I will refer to these regions in my response.

Many factors contribute to this divide. The world is inherently complex, and people living in one region may not fully grasp the realities of another. As a result, there is a] tendency to generalize and form broad assumptions based on limited perspectives. While valuable research is being conducted, contextual knowledge remains somewhat restricted. This gap in understanding fosters misunderstandings.

Additionally, instead of prioritizing the global good—such as multilateral cooperation and collective problem-solving—we often see a focus on national interests. This shift has contributed to crises in places like Gaza, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and beyond.

Another significant challenge is the issue of limited resources. For example, we witnessed shifts in policy and funding priorities in the United States following President Trump's tenure. Similarly, in the Global South, national governments often face financial constraints. However, rather than prioritizing social welfare and essential public services, governments allocate resources toward militarization. This preference for military spending over social programs ultimately undermines long-term security and stability.

Climate change also poses a major threat to everyone. It exacerbates existing security challenges and complicates international cooperation for the greater good. These are some of the critical issues that hinder effective global collaboration in addressing human security.

SPCIS:  How can governments and civil society work together to promote social justice while maintaining stability and economic growth?   

Dr Hawa Noor: There is often a tendency for governments and civil society to view each other as adversaries. While collaboration does occur, bridging this gap further is essential. Both actors should see each other as partners rather than opponents.

Of course, constructive criticism is important. However, rather than challenging one another for the sake of opposition, each should hold the other accountable in a way that strengthens their respective roles. Civil society plays a crucial role in advocating for policies that promote social justice, while governments, as the entities in power, are responsible for implementing these policies effectively.

Ultimately, both sectors aim for the same outcome: the betterment of society. If each fulfils its role responsibly, they collectively drive meaningful progress.

SPCIS: What strategies do you believe are most effective in fostering social inclusion, particularly in diverse and multi-ethnic societies?

Dr Hawa Noor: I will answer this question using the example of my country of origin, Kenya. Kenya is a multi-ethnic society with more than 40 ethnic groups and diverse religious beliefs. It serves as a textbook example of both inclusion and exclusion in a post-colonial context.

There has been significant progress in Kenya. For instance, in 2010, a new constitution was enacted, promoting the devolution of power. Kenya, once a British colony, retained many colonial structures even after gaining independence in 1963. The central government held most of the power, while certain regions, particularly those deemed unimportant by the British, remained marginalized.

After years of struggle and civil society advocacy, the 2010 constitution was adopted, redistributing power and embedding structures that promote diversity and inclusion. This constitution has been widely praised as one of the best in the world. It serves as an example of how legal and institutional reforms can enhance inclusivity in multi-ethnic and multi-religious societies—not just in the Global South but anywhere diversity exists.

However, challenges remain. Some negative practices, such as corruption, have adapted to the new system. Instead of fully devolving resources, equality, and opportunities, corruption has also been decentralized, infiltrating local governance structures. This has hindered progress.

To truly promote social inclusion, political processes must be made more inclusive. Efforts should ensure the participation of minorities, including women, people with disabilities, and other marginalized groups, in national and political processes. Every perspective must be heard. While this takes more effort and is long term, it is the only way to achieve lasting security. By prioritizing human security, we ultimately strengthen overall security.

SPCIS: How long will the Global South continue looking toward the North instead of creating its own impact in human security, technological advancement, and industrialization?

Dr Hawa Noor: It is possible for the Global South to develop independently. There are already examples of this happening—China, Singapore etc for instance. These are good examples, despite not being perfect, but they demonstrate that self-reliance is achievable. The belief that success is possible is the first step in all these.

Unfortunately, in many African countries, there is a persistent lack of confidence in their own capabilities. Many feel as though progress is unattainable, but this mindset must change. Developing an independent identity requires a shift away from colonial-era thinking—the belief that we cannot succeed without external validation or assistance.

One of the biggest barriers is that power structures have remained largely unchanged. There is still a form of modern colonization in the mind where those in power fear losing their positions if they challenge the global and local status quo. This fear of disrupting existing power dynamics slows progress.

However, success is possible. Other nations have done it, and there is no reason why the Global South cannot do the same. The key lies in self-belief, strategic planning, and the courage to break free from old systems that no longer serve.

SPCIS: In addressing human security threats, how important is an interdisciplinary approach, and what role does international collaboration play in this regard?

 

Dr Hawa Noor: A multidisciplinary approach isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. The world is interconnected, and we cannot afford to view it in fragmented ways. Take the example of so-called jihadist groups. If we label them simply as actors seeking to overthrow governments without examining the specific contexts from which they emerge—the socioeconomic, political, and historical conditions—we risk misunderstanding the problem entirely. A multidisciplinary lens helps challenge dominant narratives that oversimplify these issues. Overgeneralizations don’t solve problems; they fuel misconceptions, which in turn lead to flawed policies.

The "war on terror" is a prime example of this failure. Lack of understanding about Afghanistan, Somalia, and other regions labelled as "terrorism breeding grounds" has perpetuated destructive cycles. We need deeper, context-driven knowledge to inform better policies. This also requires shedding colonial mindsets, which persist not only in politics but even in academia. Some of the knowledge we produce inadvertently reinforces harmful policies.

We must embrace multilateralism over narrow national interests. The colonial era is behind us; this century demands fresh thinking. The world has changed, and we must see it as a shared space with enough for everyone—a concept echoed in the Southern Africa philosophy of Ubuntu. Insecurity in one corner of the globe inevitably affects another. If we internalize this interdependence, we will prioritize collective well-being. After all, your security and prosperity are ultimately tied to mine. This perspective should guide our policies, informed by rigorous, empathetic research.