Cadmus (Aug 2023)
Human Security and Existential Threats: A Governance Framework for Planet, Peace, People & Prosperity
Abstract
A key priority for Human Security in the 21st Century is the prevention of existential threats to human civilisation to ensure the well-being of our future generations. This article describes the significant and escalating nexus between human security and existential threats and outlines the main risks to humankind from existential threats, considered under the interrelated themes of Planet, People, Peace and Prosperity. Planetary threats range from cosmic events such as meteorites, mass-extinctions and biodiversity collapse to threats from our climate emergency. The indirect pressures from climate change and our environment including food and water insecurity are examined as a driver for migration, conflicts and wars. Now more than ever human civilisation is under threat from nuclear, chemical and biological warfare, with as yet undetermined hazards from Artificial Intelligence. COVID-19 has revealed how increasing international trade and travel, urbanisation and population pressure are introducing new and emerging infectious diseases that risk becoming pandemics at an increasing rate. This article proposes an integrated governance framework that highlights the importance of strengthening multi-lateral governance mechanisms to prevent and reduce risks. Furthermore, it emphasises addressing priorities that create positive tipping points to assist in planetary recovery, whilst protecting people and promoting peace, combined with a transformation to renewable energy sources to secure our future prosperity. Existing integrated policy responses that build upon the Welsh Well-Being for Future Generations Act will be described with recommendations made to strengthen our global human security architecture to prevent existential threats and ensure the future of humanity.
