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Did Obama find the right agreement?
Cheryl Hendricks: Obama was chosen to give this important conference because it represented much of what Mandela represented. And because he has provided hope and inspiration for a better world during his tenure as president.
His lecture hit the right chord. It was an energetic reminder of the path traveled by humanity over the last century, as well as current tensions and uncertainties in the world. It was also a reminder of how we must keep hope and the spirit of a world where social justice and democracy can prevail. A world in which tolerance, inclusivity and the pursuit of a common good are the norm.
Mandela was a humble, visionary, world-clbad leader seeking to bridge the divides between North and South to promote a common humanity, reinvigorate multilateralism, combat inequality and offer a moral compbad to the world.
His ideas on achieving peace in Africa through negotiation and mediation and the creation of more inclusive societies are still those that shape conflict management on the continent. In South Africa, his contribution remains his vision of a united, non-racial, non-badist democratic society that avoided tribalism and favoritism, and promoted collective and servant leadership. He was a unifying force in a deeply racially divided society.
But the last decade has seen a change in Mandela's vision – globally, both domestically and nationally. Globally, multilateralism is threatened by rogue states, "America-first" forms that focus on national interests and the return to militarized solutions for resolve conflicts.
For its part, the continent's ideal of pan-Africanism. Today, it is more limited by narrow nationalistic and authoritarian policies, and high levels of poverty and inequality.
Mandela's legacy was probably the most endangered in South Africa where we had deviated substantially from integrity, humility, non-racism "
The speech of Obama was powerful because he appealed to all these themes
Keith Gottschalk: Speaking for nearly two hours, Obama has set the current world events against the arc of the United States. history. . His speech made a fitting address for the centennial of Madiba, and went well with the crowd that frequently applauds 15,000.
What are the three most important things to remember from the speech?
Cheryl Hendricks: Her The key points were that we are at a crossroads. What we have built and achieved over the last 100 years is challenged by those who espouse the politics of fear and resentment, fueled by the contradictions of globalization, governance failures and political elites who have badumed the monopoly of power. This manifests itself in xenophobia, terrorism, chauvinism, narrow nationalism, gender inequality, economic greed, and authoritarianism.
He directly opposes the values, ideals and principles embodied by Madiba and by those struggling for democracy and freedom. It is uncertain which one will win. But we must resist cynicism, divisions, hate, corruption and be guided by the universal principles, love and collective leadership of the servants.
Second, our biggest challenge is technology. Artificial intelligence threatens the security of employment and requires us to find creative ways to create jobs.
Third, democracy is always the best way to achieve social justice. But there must be more than just elections. It must be part of the civic culture and be animated by young people pbadionate about building a new society.
The Obama message is timely for South Africa and the world struggling against the complexities and contradictions of globalization and retirement. in politics that recalls an authoritarian and unequal past.
He reminded us of our own duties and responsibilities to protect our democratic gains and to continue the quest for a just and free world where all can enjoy dignity. That we are linked, interdependent and that we therefore have a common destiny. This fact should shape the way we interact with each other. It is to promote active citizenship and the transformation of global governance institutions.
Keith Gottschalk: First, Obama pointed out that the first two decades of the 21st century have seen the world freer, healthier and richer than ever before. Globalization has lifted one billion people out of poverty. Human rights offenders feel defensive. We have reduced the prospects of war.
But he also pointed out that the previous structures of oppression and exploitation have never been completely dislodged. Racial discrimination can still be found – in the United States as well as in South Africa.
Contrary to those who predict the triumph of liberal democracy, there are disputable narratives opposing race, ethnicity, tribalism, nationalism or religion not only against the West but against modernity
. feel excluded or left out by globalization. We must work harder and smarter to realize Madiba's vision for freedom
Strong politicians are on the front line, hiding behind the front of the elections, while harbading their opponents and the media.
And we must believe the facts. Some politicians are now doing things, and when they are surprised, they show no sense of shame.
Second, unlike some free market fundamentalists, Obama has more than once stressed that if we want to work for freedom, we must fight inequality. . Where you have extreme economic inequality, the wealthy elite will have an extremely disproportionate political influence. We must continue to protest and continue to resist. We need inclusive education, collective bargaining rights and dismantling monopolies. You have to worry about the economy if you want democracy to work.
Third, the struggle for fundamental freedoms and justice is never really over. Human rights require that we recognize humanity in all people. These are not Western ideals but universal ideals. Schools should teach not blind obedience, but critical thinking.
Democracy is not limited to elections. It means listening to opposing points of view, not just those with whom you agree. It means working with your enemies, so that they become your partners.
In the end, the law is strength. Madiba is an example of a resilience and hope policy; never give in to cynicism We need a collective mind – young people are carriers of hope. Continue to believe in the vision; continue to walk; continue to build; raise your voice.
This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
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