Contemporary Security Issues: Exam Preparation

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on contemporary security issues, focusing on various aspects such as nuclear proliferation, cybersecurity, and the role of human security.

Nuclear proliferation

The spread of nuclear weapons capabilities to more countries.

Realist argument for proliferation

The theory that more nuclear-armed states can deter conflict through the threat of retaliation.

Deterrence theory

The idea that the fear of retaliation prevents states from engaging in war.

Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD)

A military doctrine where both sides possess enough nuclear weaponry to destroy each other, thus deterring conflict.

Command and control weaknesses

The potential for mismanagement or malfunction in the systems that govern the use of nuclear weapons.

The stability-instability paradox

A situation where strategic stability promotes lower-level conflicts rather than deterring them.

Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)

An agreement aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons by regulating its nuclear program.

Human security

A people-centred approach to security focusing on the protection of individuals and communities.

Securitisation

situation where a referent object depicts an existential threat and justifies to the relevant audience the use of extraordinary measures as noted by Waever

Health security

Protection of populations from public health threats like diseases.

Cybersecurity

Protection of internet-connected systems, including hardware and software, from cyber threats.

Environmental security

Safeguarding individuals and states from ecological threats that may disrupt stability.

Counterterrorism

Measures taken to prevent and respond to terrorism.

Arms control

Restrictions on the development, production, and deployment of weapons.

Transnational organised crime

Criminal activities that operate across national borders, such as trafficking and smuggling.

Non-state actors

Individuals or organizations that hold influence and power within a political system but do not belong to any established institution.

Fourth-wave terrorism

Religiously inspired terrorism, as identified by David Rapoport.

Response coordination

Coordinated actions taken by multiple actors to address a crisis or threat.

Nuclear disarmament

The process of reducing or eliminating a country's nuclear weapons.

Biological weapons

Pathogens used deliberately to cause harm or death to humans, animals, or crops.

Hybrid warfare

A strategy that blends conventional warfare with unconventional tactics, such as cyber attacks and disinformation.

Borders

They are not just physical lines but political constructs that regulate movement and reflect power. While often treated as fixed, they are shaped by historical, social, and colonial legacies.

Migration

It’s not inherently a security issue but becomes one when framed as such by states, enabling exceptional control measures like surveillance, detention, and remote border policies.

State security

the protection of a state's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and its core values, often through military means.