Xenophobia Goes Global
In a previous post, Michael examines how appealing to xenophobic tendencies has become a fundamental strategy for attacking any issues intended to address the health and welfare needs of the poor. By extension, this piece suggests how xenophobic appeal could extend to attacks on environmental efforts on the diplomatic front. Michael's connection is an important one because we know from history environmental concerns, particularly during times of economic hardship, are easily overwhelmed by the politics of insecurity.
Michaels focused on domestic politics, but, perhaps, more disturbing was the piece Rise of Nationalism Frays Global Ties: Trade, Environment, Face New Threats. The article's premise is that the trend towards globalization is ending and we have entered an epoch of "new nationalism." Primary indicators of the shift are barriers to foreign investment (remember Dubai Ports), expansion of state ownership (petro-nationalism), and immigration restriction.
In this environment, one must be concerned about the ability to forge agreements that reflect the interest of the commons. Remember the French rejected the European constitution. Under these conditions, the challenge becomes one of emphasizing why clean energy is in the national economic interest without further reinforcing a xenophobe culture. This is one more commentator looking forward to Michael's suggestions.