Latin American cities are the most violent in
the world. This is in large part due to the absence
of sound, integrated policies, and to the fact that
the security, justice and other government ministries responsible for solving these problems
are ineffective. Crime is perceived as a fact of life
about which little can be done. But this approach
is self-defeating.
Defense and security need to be viewed and
understood in a broader perspective. Considering that what happens in a remote corner of the
world might have repercussions inside our borders,
defense and security acquire a larger importance
and require cooperation among nations. The lack
of participation in defense and security discussions by today’s students reflects the prejudices
of their upbringing.
The few academic institutions that offer studies in defense and security are primarily linked to
the armed forces or to government departments
linked to the armed forces. In addition, more than
in any other sector, entry into a career in defense
or military-related issues often depends on experience in or with the armed forces.
But even if the path to studying military and security questions were easier, this generation is a member of the “right now” era in which the immediate
fulfillment of needs is placed ahead of the collective good. National security issues are regarded as
less interesting and intellectually rewarding.
Nevertheless, a younger generation can offer a
fresh perspective. Our familiarity with new technol-
ogy and its ability to handle information and com-
munication will be a great asset. Through RESDAL
and our website ( www.resdal.org), we have devel-
oped the contacts and capacity to collaborate with
scholars throughout the hemisphere on joint re-
search projects and information dissemination.
The next step is to deepen the communication
between the civilian and military sectors. Such
an effort should be aimed at civilian and military
youth, since both grew up and were raised under
democracies. The collaboration of both groups
could lead to a different analysis of the recent past
and can contribute to creating a broader look at issues such as human rights, national security and
the issue of gender in the armed forces.
In the security and defense sector, the challenge
for our generation is clear. We must deal with the
lack of institutional, political and academic venues to address security issues. Although formal
and professional training does not guarantee participation in the decision-making process, we believe we can offer a new perspective.
The real burden of encouraging such a change
rests on our political leaders. Governments must
actively promote the kinds of institutions and
programs that can expose more civilian youths
to the issues of defense. It would be an additional
step toward ending military control and influence
over civilian functions. Just as importantly, the
sharing of experiences by individuals from various generations and sectors will help consolidate
democracy in our countries.
The lack of
participation
in defense
and security
discussions
by today’s
students
reflects the
prejudices
of their
upbringing.
What is your
favorite website?
www.todosurf.com
Gonzalo Serra
b. 4 September 1980
BUENOS AIRES,
ARGENTINA
What is your most
valued possession?
My soccer shoes.
Where do you see
yourself in 20 years?
At home with my family.
María Victoria
Cocozza
b. 7 July 1983
SAN ISIDRO,
ARGENTINA
What is your most
valued possession?
My laptop.
Whom do you
most admire?
Blanca Bernasconini for
her work with NGOs.
Ana Laura
García
b. 29 September 1983
BUENOS AIRES,
ARGENTINA
Whom do you
most admire?
Cesar San Martín,
president of the Penal
Section of the Supreme
Court of Peru and part
of the jury in Alberto
Fujimori’s trials.
Ivette Castañeda
b. 13 January 1983
ASUNCIÓN, PARAGUAY Whom do you
most admire?
My mother.
Nicolás Mora
b. 10 September 1978
SANTIAGO DE CHILE
What is your most
valued possession?
My first communion
medal.
