We no longer live in an era in which foreign policymakers can claim to serve their nations' interests treating what happens to people in other countries as an afterthought... What happens to people in other countries matters. It matters to the welfare of our own nations and our own citizens.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the interconnectedness of nations and the importance of considering global welfare in policy decisions.
Samantha Power's quote highlights the necessity for policymakers to recognize the impact of their decisions on global populations. In an increasingly interconnected world, the well-being of people in other countries is not merely an afterthought but is intimately tied to the security and welfare of a nation’s own citizens. This shift in perspective calls for a more compassionate and globally-minded approach in politics.
In practice
This quote can be used to inspire discussions in international relations seminars about the importance of humanitarian policy.
Sanctions did indeed help to bring Iran to the negotiating table. But sanctions did not stop the advance of Iran's nuclear program. Negotiations have done that, and it is in our interest not to deny ourselves the chance to achieve a long-term, comprehensive solution that would deny Iran a nuclear weapon.
Zimbabweans are severely malnourished, and deaths from starvation occur even in the cities. The country has not yet suffered nationwide famine only because international donors have stepped in.
Western governments have generally tried to contain genocide by appeasing its architects. But the sad record of the last century shows that the walls the United States tries to build around genocidal societies almost inevitably shatter.
No more than a surgeon can operate while tweeting can you reach your potential with one ear in, one ear out. You actually have to reacquaint yourself with concentration. We all do.
When dictators feel their support slipping among adults, it is not unusual for them to alter school textbooks in the hope of enlisting impressionable youths in their cause.
Throughout history, when societies face tough economic times, we have seen democratic reforms deferred, decreased trust in government, persecution of minority groups, and a general shrinking of the democratic space.
Power is gradually stealing away from the many to the few, because the few are more vigilant and consistent.
The true principle of a republic is that the people should choose whom they please to govern them. Representation is imperfect, in proportion as the current of popular favor is checked. The great source of free government, popular election, should be perfectly pure, and the most unbounded liberty allowed.
There is no excitement anywhere in the world, short of war, to match the excitement of the American presidential campaign.
As the age of television progresses the Reagans will be the rule, not the exception. To be perfect for television is all a President has to be these days.
Why is it that right-wing bastards always stand shoulder to shoulder in solidarity, while liberals fall out among themselves?
One of the necessary accompaniments of capitalism in a democracy is political corruption.
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