Global governance crisis: A deficit of parity and inclusive consciousness

gaza
(Photo: Twitter/X)
In recent times, the world has been witness to a profound illustration of the inadequacy of global governance, with a particular focus on the Palestinian [Qadiyya قضية] and the occupation of its land. The inability of international institutions to uphold fundamental principles of fairness, inclusivity, and accountability has resulted in a distressing imbalance in the treatment of the involved parties, exacerbating the suffering of innocent civilians in Palestine, notably women and children, in the current war in Gaza.اضافة اعلان

Throughout this conflict, global governance structures have exhibited a pronounced bias, predominantly favoring Israel, despite the disproportionate loss of life and devastation endured by Palestinian communities. The tragic toll of civilian casualties, predominantly among women and children, underscores a failure to prioritize human rights and safeguard vulnerable populations.

Moreover, the dissemination of media narratives, predominantly from an Israeli standpoint, has perpetuated a discriminatory portrayal of the current war in Gaza, often neglecting or downplaying the tragic hardships faced by Gazans. This media bias not only distorts public perception but also obstructs endeavors to attain a fair and equitable resolution to atrocities.

At the core of this imbalance lies the dehumanization of the Palestinian people by successive Israeli administrations, a narrative largely unchecked by the international community. The absence of substantial accountability for crimes against Gazan civilians and the hostile rhetoric contribute to an atmosphere of impunity, eroding trust in global governance mechanisms.

“Critics rightfully condemn these funding cuts, arguing that depriving the agency of funds effectively amounts to collective punishment against Palestinians, exacerbating their already dire humanitarian situation.”

The failure of global governance to address these injustices underscores a regression in the international community's commitment to upholding universal values of equality, justice, and human dignity. The lack of collective action and effective mechanisms for holding violators of human rights accountable perpetuates cycles of violence and suffering, undermining prospects for stability in the region.

The emergence of a new ecology of globalization, characterized by “successive waves of global integration, including the "first globalization" between 1870 and 1914, the "second globalization" from 1944 to 1971, and the ongoing "third era of globalization" since 1989,” global governance has failed to see sustainable improvement. Despite the evolution of global interconnectedness, there has been a notable absence of serious investment in fortifying global governance mechanisms.

“Through initiatives such as providing humanitarian aid, fostering dialogue, and advocating for peaceful resolutions, Jordan has exemplified a commitment to translating ethical values into tangible actions on the global stage, a commitment it has consistently upheld.”

Looking ahead, addressing the deficit of global parity and inclusive consciousness demands a fundamental reassessment of existing governance structures and norms. It necessitates a renewed commitment to upholding universal values and ensuring equitable treatment for all, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or religion.

Additionally, recent actions taken by several countries toward the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) further emphasize the deficit in global governance. Shockingly, a significant number of nations have suspended funding to UNRWA, the primary United Nations agency responsible for delivering aid to Palestinian refugees. These funding cuts will undoubtedly have a devastating impact on approximately 1.7 million Palestinian refugees in Gaza, along with an additional 400,000 Palestinians without refugee status, many of whom rely on UNRWA's infrastructure for essential services. Critics rightfully condemn these funding cuts, arguing that depriving the agency of funds effectively amounts to collective punishment against Palestinians, exacerbating their already dire humanitarian situation.

“The failure of global governance to address these injustices underscores a regression in the international community's commitment to upholding universal values of equality, justice, and human dignity.”

Recent developments in international legal proceedings, such as the ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the attempted genocide in Gaza by Israeli forces, have brought to light the growing global awareness of the injustices faced by Palestinians. Nations like South Africa have been vocal in shining a spotlight on these human rights violations and pushing for accountability on the world stage. This highlights the significant role that conscientious nations, particularly those in the Global South, play in challenging the status quo and holding perpetrators of human rights abuses accountable, even when faced with political pressure or reluctance from other global powers.

However, it is essential to recognize that support for a global commitment to these values extends beyond borders, with people in the Global North also standing in solidarity with these principles, despite their governments' stance.

Under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, Jordan has played a crucial role in shaping the discourse on global governance. Beyond mere rhetoric, Jordan has taken proactive steps to alleviate the suffering of Gazans and address the root causes of the conflict. Through initiatives such as providing humanitarian aid, fostering dialogue, and advocating for peaceful resolutions, Jordan has exemplified a commitment to translating ethical values into tangible actions on the global stage, a commitment it has consistently upheld.

These examples serve as compelling reminders of the urgent need for comprehensive reform and revitalization of global governance mechanisms. These mechanisms must uphold principles of justice, inclusivity, and accountability for all nations and peoples. Only through collaborative efforts to address systemic inequalities and injustices can we build a world that truly embodies the values of equality, justice, and human dignity for all.

The world cannot afford to tolerate double standards. What is happening serves as a test of our governance, our principles, and our common sense.


Wafa Al-Khadra is a university professor and spearheaded the conceptualization of Barefoot Nisswiyya and the innovative Ishrah research methodology.


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Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not necessarily reflect Jordan News' point of view.



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