#21 Where do I go from here?

This year in world issues we have covered a variety of topics, I feel that all the topics we have covered are important, however the ones which we spent the most time on include the Arab Israeli Conflict, the European Economic Debt Crisis, Biodiversity, Global Disparity, and Global Warming.

I personally found the AIC and Global Disparity to be the two most influential topics that we covered. The reason for this being that up until this course I knew very little regarding the AIC, I was aware of the 'War in Iraq', Al Qaeda and the Taliban, however I was not aware that they were all related and stemmed from this conflict that had been going on for decades. I find the conflict itself very interesting, and I enjoyed the culminating assignment which involved my representation of Egypt in the AIC Game that we took part in online. I feel that this one topic not only broadened  my understanding of conflicts in that part of the world, but it also affected the way I approach situations which have more than one solution, being a mediator in this conflict truly made me understand the importance of seeing an argument from every possible point of view.

I also mentioned Global Disparity as being one of the most influential issue that we covered this year. My reason for singling out this topic is because, I have lived in countries where majority of the population lives in poverty, witnessing poverty at a young age truly opened my eyes as to how lucky I am to live above the poverty line, with friends and family who care for me. However I have now lived in Canada for 9 years and although I have always been aware that poverty exists across the globe I had begun to forget just how bad some peoples everyday lives are, watching the move "invisible children" and discussing the problems in Uganda really reminded me just how fortunate I am.

With regards as to how I plan one using what I have learnt this year in the future I plan on making my self  truly aware of the issues are going on around the world - and in terms of action, doing what I can in to change them. The newspaper, and online media are excellent sources for learning about global issues, whether they be environmental or humanity related. In terms of action I plan on communicating with my government and standing up for issues that I believe in, and most importantly, believing that I can make a difference to the number of crisis that are currently going on across our planet.

#20 Canada, looking ahead at the biggest threat

I personally feel that the biggest threat to Canada in the next 50 years will be economically related. My reasons for believing this are simply.

Canada relies hugely on other countries importing Canadian goods. With the recent economic crisis Canada has lost billions of dollars because other countries have made cuts on the amount of produce that they imported from Canada. Although Canada has come through the recent recession with less debt than most countries, Canada depends mostly on the US, which has been hit hard by the economic crisis.

This dependancy on America is what I see as ultimately being the main reason for Canada's economy being threatened in the future. Until America sorts our their own economic problems, Canada will continue to lose money. The biggest problem with this is that Canada can do very little to change this situation, especially because forming new economic ties with other countries will be extremely difficult, seeing as every major country that would be interested in trading more with canada is currently in debt.

I personally think that it is going to take a very long time before the World - and Canada's economies return back to the healthy state they were before the 2008 world recession occurred. This is why when I look forward into the next 50 years, for Canada, the economy will by far be the most pressing issue.

#19 How I've Changed

This year in World Issues I have learnt a great deal about the many problems that are currently occurring throughout the world. This course has has taught me what it means to be a global citizen, and how I can personally make a difference in the world.

An issue that I really enjoyed discussing with my class mates were the issues surrounding global disparity.    We heatedly discussed the problems that the distance between developing countries and developed countries presents - in terms of sending aid - especially water. Most methods of transporting water are far to expensive, because water is so heavy. This lead to us discussing the possibility of transporting people to the water, however this would lead to problems in itself (overcrowding). The solution that most of us seemed to agree on was that inventions such as the water bike and straw, which act to purify dirty water are the best step forward - although these products are sometimes too expensive for the people who need them the most to afford.

In this course I was also given the opportunity to develop my debating skills, I gained confidence over the year, and no longer became afraid to voice my opinion on a topic. I especially enjoyed taking part in the discussions at the end of each ISU presentation.

Finally with regards to how I will be using the skills and knowledge I have accumulated in this course in the future. I plan on using the knowledge I have learned to educate others, and raise awareness as to how to become a global citizen. I have personally seen the poverty that plagues parts of the world and witnessed the conditions that some people are forced to live in every day. I know that raising awareness for issues in foreign countries can be challenging, especially when we may see no effects of the contribution we make. However if there is one thing that I have definitely learned in this course it is that change starts with acceptance and self driven determination, qualities that every person has, as long as they are willing to take the first step.

#18 Three Most Pressing Issues

I personally feel that every issue we discussed this year in World Issues is important, however if I had to choose three which I personally see as being the most influential on a global scale I would choose the following:


The European Debt Crisis:
The Economy crisis in Europe is still prevalent, and in my opinion is one of the most pressing issue that we covered this year in world issues.

This year we spent a great deal of time learning about the European debt crisis, we especially focused on countries like Greece and Italy who may still yet be forced to default.
People across Europe have rioted and protested against government cuts. Billion dollar bailouts have been arranged - and failed to achieve their goal, and most importantly the world economy is dramatically suffering as a consequence of poor financial planning.

The Euro was created to make Europe a stronger force, it was meant to unite the countries of Europe and solidify their position together in the European Union. Unfortunately it is doing the opposite of that, countries that are defaulting on their debts (Greece) are dragging down other countries (Germany)  who are just managing to stay afloat.

The debt crisis is Europe is affecting the global economy, as a consequence of european debts millions of people across the globe are losing jobs, and being forced to make changes in order to save money - all as a consequence of a few mediterranean countries defaulting on their loans.

The Arab Israeli Conflict:
We spent a great deal of time dedicated to the Arab Israeli Conflict this year. I took part in an organised 'game' where I represented Egypt, I wrote a report detailing the different aspects of the conflict - both in the real world and in the game.

The reason why I feel that the AIC is such an important issue is because the conflicts that have arisen from this single conflict range from terrorist attacks to political uprisings, it has truly become a war that involves counties from across the globe, although it can be debated that some countries are more interested in profiting from this war, than ending it.  

Apart from the world wars, the world has never been host to such a conflict, where western powers are forced to band together to fight an 'enemy' which upon closer inspection is so intently rooted into a society that no amount of western influence will ever be able to change it.


Maintaining Biodiversity:
Biodiversity is a world issue that many people choose to overlook, or simply not understand. I chose it as one of my top three because it is an issue that affects the entire planet and will continue to do so until enough awareness is raised, and enough people are educated as to how to make a change.

Biodiversity on planet earth is rapidly declining, solely due to human impacts on nature.
During the year my teacher made a reference that humanity is like a cancer slowly draining the earth of all life and resource. I found this analogy interesting because I could not help but notice the similarities between humanity and cancer - the earth acting as our dying host.

However unlike cancer, humanity has the ability to realise the dangers of consuming too much, before it is too late, which is why I believe that through education and action as a global community we can become a world where maintaining biodiversity is no longer a challenging issue.

#17 ISU Reflection

I greatly enjoyed the Independent Study Unit presentations, I felt that everyone did an excellent job of outlining their issue, and that the discussions that arose from our presentations really widened my knowledge of issues that previous to this unit I had known very little about.

I did my presentation on Human Trafficking, I feel that I accurately conveyed the cruelty and seriousness of this issue. I was surprised to find that several of my class mates were unaware of this pressing issue, and were shocked that it is currently happening in developed nations - even Canada.

A presentation that I found particularly interesting was the presentation on water, and its relation to the developed world. I was particularly interested in the prospect of geographic location to fresh water being one of the most contributing factors to the wealth of a nation.
Countries that are situated in areas where fresh water is sparse are usually still developing, and so may be classified as "third world" countries. Whilst countries that have unrestricted access to fresh water, for example Canada, and the United States, are developed, and considered by many as world powers.

The presentation went on to discuss the importance of limiting water usage in the developed world, and making an effort to be responsible, and not take for granted the water that flows infinitely out of our taps. The luxury of fresh water should be taken more seriously, in the US the average person uses 2,500 cubic metres of water annually - enough to fill an Olympic swimming pool! This figure is more than double the average person's water usage across the globe. Clearly there is a problem with the morals surrounding water usage.    

My classmates presentations helped shape my view of the world by broadening my overall knowledge, and awareness of issues that I was not aware of previous to this course. I was not only made aware of the negative issues presented, but also the positive initiatives that people across the globe are leading to combat these issues.

#16 European Election -Austerity Rejected!

Elections in Europe have led to a rejection of austerity measures. Europe is still in an economic crisis and the people who are suffering the most are crying out for a change in financial policy that will actually bring them out of this double-dip recession.

I decided to focus my attention on Greece, a country who has recently rejected further austerity measures, as well as electing out the governing party that led them into the mess that their economy is currently still in. 

It appears the people of Greece are tired of proposed bail-out plans, and instead have opted for smaller governing forces that focus on anti-bailout plans - a switch which many feel uneasy about, as some feel what Greece needs most is to be lead my an experienced party.  

I understand why the people of Greece have decided to put their faith in a smaller less experienced government, they feel change is the only way out of their current situation.  They are tired of feeling like a burden on Europe's economy, and further austerity measures would only increase the unemployment in Greece, which is already at an all time high of 20%! 

Whether a change in party will lead Greece out of their economic catastrophe, or be another mistake that will put them into further debt, only time can tell.  However with regard to austerity measures, I firmly agree that another solution needs to be found, as creating even more tension in an already pressing situation will only worsen the problem.   

#15 Racism

"Any concept of one person being superior to another can lead to racism."
-Walter Lang 

To me this quote really outlines the root of racism, all men and women are made equal and yet people in our  society refuse to treat each other as equals.

An example of racism that I found shocking was the video that one of my class mates showed during their summative presentation on racism. The video detailed a situation which was set up by a group that was working to eliminate racism in our society. The situation unfolded as follows, a woman of African heritage walked into a store - she was an actor, the was then confronted by one of the the white sales women (also an actor) who demanded she leave the store - immediately, purely because her 'type' were not welcome in that particular store. The point of the video was to get a reaction out of the nearby shopper - who were not actors.

I found the different reactions to this scene very interesting, especially when one man supported the racist sales woman! When the act was revealed he immediately changed his opinion, which I found ironic, however majority of the people who did react to the scene did so in defence of the African American woman who was being discriminated against.

I am personally extremely against racism, and don't understand how some people can discriminate against other on that basis of skin colour or ethnicity. This video I mentioned did however have some encouraging moments - for example when two women stood up against the "racist" saleswoman, by not only supporting the African American women but by also and proceeded to walk out of the store , bringing many of the other shoppers with them.

#14 Globalization

Globalization is becoming an issue that is effecting billions of people throughout the world, both positively and negatively.

Globalization is the 'growth' of a company to a worldwide scale. The main reason companies are becoming able to expand to become such massive entities is mainly because of the internet and modern technology that has made it possible for people to communicate across the world.

Globalization can be seen as a positive step forward, the unification of people through the world can lead to competition between companies, which in itself will lower consumer prices, and encourage more consumer spending which will promote the global economy  - however the cons that are associated with Globalization cannot be ignored, especially when so many people are affected by them.

I am of course talking about the unfortunate fact that some companies take advantage of the poverty that some people in third world countries are forced to live in. These companies rely on the desperation of the poor to fuel their industry - offering them very low paying jobs that barely keep them supported. However some may argue that these low paying jobs are the only chance that these desperate people have of survival - and that these companies are keeping them alive.

There is no clear cut solution to this problem, which is more important? - the global economy , and the sustenance of companies that offer jobs to millions of people across the globe - or the development of third world nations and the encouragement for their lower classes to get an education and attempt to break the cycle of poverty.

#13 "How has biodiversity changed on earth in the last 150 years and what can we do to fix this trend in the next 150 years?"

The crucial balance that maintains biodiversity has dramatically changed in the past 150 years. The growth of the human race has had a huge impact on the natural world, especially in areas where populations are growing especially rapidly.

The definition of Biodiversity is as follows:

"The existence of a wide variety of plant and animal species in their natural environments. 

I personally believe that the most important connection lies between humanity and the natural environment. Humans are without doubt the most advanced, and influential species on Earth, which is why it is our responsibility to make sure that through evolving as a species - we do not leave the environment as an issue we can live without worrying about. 

Unfortunately this seems to have become the case, with oil wells drying up, and rain forests being cut-down our natural world is shrinking. This means millions of species are being affected by human negligence.

I personally believe that the solution to our past actions are to focus on educating children from a very young age about the role that the environment plays and the importance of taking steps to make amends for the poor decision making that has led to the current situation. 

However education is not the only solution, action needs to be taken. I believe that the Canada could effectively lead the world into a future where the environment is not a secondary goal. The Canadian government should impose higher taxes on logging and fishery companies who are demanding too much from the naturel environment without giving enough back. 

The reason why I believe Canada should be the one to lead this movement is because Canada is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of natural resources. Also, Canada has a fairly small population compared to countries who are near its geographical size, which means that it would take a shorter amount of time to get the message of biodiversity to the entire nation.

# 12 Violence in Our Society

Concern:

The leading concern when considering this issue is the effect that violence has on the children of our society. Violence is passed down through generations, if our society became more aware of the implications that led to violence, starting with the effects that violence has on children I believe that our society would be greatly benefited.  

Causes:

Internet, before the Internet became a widely used source of information the only real place where one could learn about violence in our society was the newspaper or news on the television, and even then all news was carefully screened and filtered.

Now not only does the Internet provide an unlimited source of knowledge on topics that many deem inappropriate, but it also provides a place where crime can be organised. The largest concern with the Internet is the fact that anyone can access sensitive topics that have gone through no screening process, which could potentially have a negative effect certain individuals.    

Childhood, the childhood of an individual will effect how they will treat others for the rest of their life. A prime example of someone with a scarred childhood that led them to do terrible things was Joseph Stalin, his father was an alcoholic, and beat him and his mother, until he was forced to leave home at an early age. Stalin was the leader of Soviet Russia from 1929-1953. During his reign his policies killed approximately 10-15 million lives. If he had been raised differently by his parents he would have almost certainly grown up to be a completely different human being.     

Political Implications:

Many governments focus on trying to control violence when there are other pressing issues on hand. However if governments simply focused on creating stable foundations for children that would otherwise be forced to live extremely traumatic lives, generations would be far more aware of violence and the implications that it has on others.      

Social Implications:

The implications that violence has on our society are huge. Large parts of our culture, whether they be historical, or part of our pop-culture are based on violence. There are hundreds of television programs about violence, both against and for it. An example would be UFC, there is an entire audience that is obsessed with ‘organized fighting’ many people are unaware the effects that such programs can have on young children. 

  

Economics Implications:

The economic implications of violence are rooted deep in our society, entire business whether they be legal or illegal are based on violence an the attention it attracts, for example drug barons make a lot of money through organised crime, whether it be drug smuggling or people trafficking – both evidently lead to blood shed and unnecessary violence.   

Environmental Implications:

The environmental implications that violence has are not as severe, however violence does affect the environment in that governments would rather spend money combating crime than researching new technology that has less impacts on the environment.  

Solutions:

There is no real solution to violence in our society as there will always be someone willing to commit a crime – whether it be for money, revenge, or simply a random act of violence.

However I believe a solution that would have the greatest impact would be improving the education of young children, and directly showing them the impacts that violence has on society and encouraging them to always consider their actions for even the smallest violent act can have unseen implications. 

# 11 Gender Inequality

Gender Inequality is a global issue, 50% of the earths population is being mistreated, simply because they are not male. However it is in developing nations that this issue is most prominent.

Before I go into further detail concerning discrimination against women, I will explain the main role that women play in these developing countries.
It is the women's responsibility to cook, and prepare every meal for the entire family, it is the women's responsibility to keep the house clean, and sometimes walk miles for drinking water, and most importantly it is the woman's responsibility to raise and care for the children.


It is this final responsibility that I view as being the most critical to the overall problem of Gender Equality, for a mother will teach everything she knows to her children. If a woman is kept in the dark with regards to having a fulfilled education simply because of her gender, she will never be able to teach her children how to read or write, and it is very unlikely that the father (if he is even present) will be willing to spend the time to educate his children, and so this cycle of illiteracy, and mistreatment continues, simply because of a society unwilling to allow its women to be educated.


The traditional role that many women fulfill is due to the extremely patriarchal society that is rooted into the core of these countries,  in order to abolish gender inequality we need to start by educating the children in these countries about the important position that women hold in society.

I ultimately believe that education is the key to this problem, however children are not the only ones in need of an education. Many of the countries that support gender inequality are still developing and so rely on aid from foreign nations to help support their populations. I believe that the organizations that send in aid should be allowed to demand that the Governments of these countries focus on educating their public as a whole, with specific regard to this issue.  

#10 Disease and Epidemics (AIDs)

Recently we have been discussing the pressing issue of disease, especially in developing nations that lack the finance to support a sufficient health care system that is able to meet the demand of  its people. 

Disease is the number one killer of humans worldwide, over 2/3rds of the deaths each year are disease related. The main cause being diseases related to the Cardiovascular System. Over 17.5million of these deaths are from underdeveloped countries. 

The reason why there is such an alarmingly high rate of Cardiovascular Disease related deaths in developing countries is partly because of the change in diet that has taken place of the past years, cheap food that contains very low nutritional value, that tastes good because of all the fats and salts in it has become the #1 food source for millions of people, mainly because most people can not afford to buy anything else. 

The other reason is one that is directly linked with the standard of healthcare present in developing countries. Many countries simply depend on foreign aid to treat their people, preferring to focus their spending's on military interests instead.   

Disease affects everyone, regardless of race, gender, or even wealth. Although it can be said that those living in developed Countries, with access to doctors, proper medical treatments, and  a sanitary living environment are much less likely to get sick.

The main issue we discussed was AID'S, and the epidemic it has become, mainly in Sub-Saharan Africa. In 2008, 33.4million people were diagnosed with the HIV virus, of these 67% live in Sub-Saharan Africa. Although researchers are yet to have found a cure for AIDS I believe that if the conditions that many of these people lived in were improved, and their knowledge of HIV/AIDS expanded, these alarming figures would decrease. 

One solution to this problem would include putting pressure on the Governments of countries that have especially high HIV/AIDS rates, asking them to invest in raising awareness regarding this fatal disease, and to encourage the use of birth control.  

Another solution we discussed helps to raise the livelihood of those willing to work for a better future. This solution is called 'Micro-Credit' and it works through organizations donating small loans (for example $1000) to farmers in developing Nations. This small loan will buy the farmers the tools and resources they need in order to produce a successful crop, overtime they will be able to pay back the initial loan, as well as producing a profit in which they can live off, thus improving their standard of living.         

#9 Care Model of Social Action

With the population of the world  recently reaching 7 Billion it would be impossible to be able to determine a set of concrete rules that define what it means to live a socially aware and responsible life. Which is why everyone can look at the CARE Model of Social Action differently, but still acknowledge the base principles of value that it advocates.  
Compassion, Action, Responsibility, and Equality. Together they form the components of the CARE model.

Compassion:
To be compassionate means that you are understanding, and considerate. There are always two sides to a story, treat everyone equally and always treat others with the same amount of respect that you demand.

Action:
This component of the CARE model is self explanatory, take action for what you believe in, and if you see something happen that you disagree with, don't be afraid to stand up for your own opinion. Remember: "Those who matter don't mind and those who mind don't matter". If you truly believe in something it doesn't matter what some else may think of you.

Responsibility:

Be responsible for your actions and be aware of any outcomes that they may lead to. "You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today." (Abraham Lincoln) . Most importantly be honest, honesty shows your true character and shows people that you are trustworthy and dependable.

Equality:

This component is similar to 'Compassion' in that it demands that everyone should treat each other equally, regardless of race, sex, or ethnic background. Equality is a major issue throughout the world, in the World Issues Conference we learned about inequality against women in developing countries (specifically Iran). If people were more open minded and were able to realise that everyone's opinion mattered, the issue of inequality would not exist.   

Take Action Ethnics Test: 

Golden Rule:
Everyday I am aware of the ways I treat others, and how my actions towards them will effect my future relationship with them.
Public Scrutiny:
Although I would be uncomfortable with broadcasting my personal beliefs to the world, overall I am fine with the knowledge that others are aware of the amount of respect I feel I deserve and the amount of respect I show to others. My beliefs are my own, as is my opinion as to what is right and wrong.
Kid-On-Your-Shoulder:
I feel responsible for my actions, especially when my younger brother is around, because not only am I a role model for him but I am also someone I know he trusts, and so I would never want to undermine his trust. 
Voice of Reason:

I believe that the most ethical person I know would applaud my decision to work towards tre ating others with respect and encouraging those around me to do the same.