Q.4 What are the changing dimensions of security and how they vary from the classical concept of international security? 2018

The concept of security has evolved significantly over time, reflecting changing perceptions of threats and challenges facing states and societies. The classical concept of international security focused primarily on military threats to state sovereignty and territorial integrity. However, in recent years, the dimensions of security have expanded to include a range of non-military threats, as well as a greater emphasis on human security and the security of individuals and communities.

The changing dimensions of security can be understood in the following ways:

1. Traditional security: This refers to the classical concept of international security, which emphasizes military threats to state sovereignty and territorial integrity. Traditional security concerns include issues such as nuclear proliferation, arms control, and territorial disputes.
2. Human security: This refers to the security of individuals and communities, and encompasses a range of non-military threats such as poverty, disease, environmental degradation, and human rights abuses. Human security also includes issues such as food security, water security, and energy security.
3. Economic security: This refers to the security of a state’s economic interests, and includes issues such as trade policy, access to resources, and economic development.
4. Cybersecurity: This refers to the security of a state’s digital infrastructure and the protection of sensitive information from cyber threats such as hacking and cyber espionage.
5. Environmental security: This refers to the security of the natural environment and the impacts of climate change, natural disasters, and environmental degradation on human societies.
6. Health security: This refers to the security of populations against infectious diseases and pandemics, and includes issues such as public health policy, disease surveillance, and response capabilities.

Overall, the changing dimensions of security reflect a broadening of the concept beyond traditional military concerns to include a range of non-military threats and a greater focus on the security of individuals and communities. These changes reflect the evolving nature of the security environment in the 21st century, as well as a growing recognition of the interconnectivity of security issues and the need for a more holistic approach to security policy.