Active learning ideas
Security is no longer just about protecting borders from foreign armies. This topic introduces students to the shift from traditional security (military threats and balance of power) to non-traditional security (human security and global security). It covers modern threats such as terrorism, climate change, epidemics like COVID-19, and large-scale migration.
Activity 01
Groups are given a 'threat card' (e.g., Cyber-warfare, Global Warming, or Ebola). They must map out how this threat ignores national borders and what kind of international cooperation is needed to stop it.
What is the difference between traditional and non-traditional security?
Activity 02
Students debate the motion: 'In the 21st century, a nation's security is better ensured by investing in healthcare and education than in advanced weaponry.'
How does global poverty act as a source of insecurity?
Activity 03
Pairs attempt to write a universal definition of terrorism. They then compare their definitions with international standards to see why it is so difficult for the UN to reach a consensus on this term.
What cooperative strategies can address international terrorism?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Security only means having a strong army.
Non-traditional security includes protection against hunger, disease, and environmental disasters. Using a threat-mapping activity helps students see that an army cannot stop a virus or a drought.
Terrorism is the only non-traditional security threat.
While major, it is one of many, including poverty and migration. Collaborative investigations into different threats help students broaden their perspective on what 'safety' means.
Methods used in this brief
United Nations and its Organizations
Study the structure, functions, and reform processes of the United Nations. Evaluate the relevance of the UN in a changing global landscape.
8 methodologies
Environment and Natural Resources
Analyze global environmental politics and the concept of sustainable development. Understand the geopolitics of resource management and indigenous rights.
8 methodologies