Times of uncertainty: The causes, effects of destabilization in 2024 - opinion

• Published date: 18 April 2024
• Author: DANIEL YACKOBI
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

The average person has the power to create whatever future he or she desires instead of feeling victimized. In South Africa, I learned an African word, ubuntu, meaning "I am because you are." Everything that happens to me is a source of who you are. We are all connected, and what is happening on the other side of the world has an effect on me, and vice versa. In simple language, we all know it as being aware of one's thoughts, speech, and actions

What is happening in the geopolitical arena that affects global commerce, our ability to provide for our families, and the safety and security of our loved ones?

Is the global community on the brink of World War III, due to authoritarian regimes and their relentless pursuit of maintaining power at all costs? Do we as average people have the power to be the cause of world peace – and a common future?

Let's dive in and try to understand the forces behind the current global situation.

Causes of destabilization

The common denominator among Russia, China, Iran, and other authoritarian regimes is their relentless pursuit of maintaining power at all costs. This fixation on retaining control often leads to a disregard for the well-being and aspirations of their citizens, resulting in domestic and international conflicts and crises.

In Russia, Putin's regime is driven by the fear of losing power, as evidenced by their aggressive actions in Ukraine to prevent its drift toward the European Union. The Kremlin's narrative revolves around preserving Russian influence and preventing the spread of Western ideals that could threaten Putin's grip on power.

Similarly, the aspirations of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as articulated by its leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, to spread Islam globally has profound implications not only for its own citizens but also for the broader international community. Khameini's declaration to export the Islamic revolution underscores Iran's commitment to promoting its version of political Islam beyond its borders, often at the expense of stability and peace in the region. Sadly, the resources expended on exporting the revolution divert attention and funds away from addressing domestic challenges such as economic stagnation, social inequality, and political repression.

This pattern of authoritarian leadership prioritizing personal interests over the greater good of their citizens has profound implications for global stability. In South Africa, the ruling party appears to be following a similar path of...