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A New Security Paradigm

The changing nature of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict demands that new forms of intervention are developed. Force of arms is not sufficient and often aggravates conflicts. To achieve peace and security, new strategies are needed. A different approach to violent conflict is needed, one which prioritises human security.

While most security models focus on the defence of the state from external attack, human security is about protecting individuals and communities from any form of political violence. A human security model can provide tools to tackle three important areas of conflict, which are otherwise neglected in traditional military security models. These include a deeper understanding of the root causes of conflict, cycles of violence and the asymmetry of power.

Such an approach is often criticised for being “soft” option. Military intervention produces more immediate results, whereas a human security intervention demands something more subtle, slow and painstaking. Evidence shows, however, that military strategies often serve to increase levels of violence. A traditional military analysis does not address or remedy the roots of violence and does not take into consideration the consequences of the use of military force on a human level. A careful analysis of the root causes of political violence reveals a persistent influence of powerlessness, exclusion, trauma and humiliation. Knowledge of this could usefully inform and influence the development of a new security paradigm.

It is also necessary to address the asymmetrical power relationships between Palestine and Israel. Without this, there cannot be an end of conflict. Historically, Israel, as the side with the greatest amount of power, has imposed its agenda. However, globalisation has lead to a shift in traditional power dynamics. Groups that have been historically marginalized and disempowered have as a result of their global connections strengthened their voice. This demands new methods of engagement in which groups who historically sat outside the political process now need to be included.

In the resolution of the Palestine-Israel conflict and in order to achieve sustainable peace, we believe:

• There is a human-political resolution to this conflict and not a military one.
• The root causes of conflict will have to be addressed.
• It is important to ensure the inclusion of all parties involved in a conflict. More than half of peace processes break down even after terms have been agreed; mostly due to the exclusion of specific parties.
• The model for the resolution of the Palestinian-conflict needs to be shifted from present one of power to one of human security that addresses the human security needs of all those involved in the conflict.
• The vast power disparity between Palestinians and Israel will need to be addressed for the resolution of end of conflict.
• At present, the imbalance of power has led to a preoccupation with Israel’s security needs; there will need to be a model that recognizes the security needs of all sides in this conflict.
• As a consequence of endless suffering many of the parties involved in this conflict believe that it is only by making the other side suffer that political change will come about. This leads to deep traumatisation in both communities that acts to paralyse peace making efforts.