Every human group seeks security as one of its highest objectives. The concept of national security became prominent in the mid-20th century, with a strong military focus but also including other aspects of security. In the second half of that century, the term international security was frequently used, to account for the growing interdependence of nations. Within the sphere of international security, arms control and disarmament were major foci of attention. Toward the end of the 20th century, the term human security became part of the discourse of diplomacy and humanitarian work, underscoring a heightened respect for the value of human life and community health. After the attacks of 11 September 2001 on the United States, the concept of homeland security rose to prominence.

We have worked in each of these security areas. In recognition of the high and growing levels of global interdependence and mutual vulnerability that characterize the present era, we use the term global human security to encompass all the types of security mentioned above. Our work in this program area is co-directed by Dr. Paula Gutlove and Dr. Gordon Thompson. Many of our activities related to global human security overlap our activities in other program areas.

IRSS’s work in this program area is often done in partnership with other organizations. We have worked with the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Winston Foundation for World Peace, the Bellerive Foundation, Greenpeace International, the World Health Organization, International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War, Parliamentarians Global Action, the Institute for Peace and International Security, Clark University, Citizens Awareness Network, Mothers for Peace, and others. Our activities in this program area have occurred within the following categories:

• Arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation

• Health and human security

• Preventive action and integrated security

• Risk and homeland security

• Dual-role technologies

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