Global Security. Part One 1997
Distributed by Films Media Group, PO Box 2053, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-2053; 800-257-5126
Produced by University of Notre Dame
Director n/a
VHS, color, 29 min.
College - Adult
History, Political Science
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Charles Burkart, Head, Audiovisual Library, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505Global Security, Part One covers the changes in United States military policy after the collapse of communism in the 1990s. United States military intervention in Somalia, Haiti, and Bosnia are examined.
During the previous Cold War era, "containment" of communism (Korea, Vietnam, Latin America) and "MAD" (mutually assured atomic destruction) were the corner stones of United States military policy. Since the end of the Cold War, there has been a blurring of the previously unambiguous lines of military demarcation. The United States military has stopped taking unilateral actions, and has instead taken a leading role in UN "peacekeeping initiatives." Frequently, the adversaries in these peacekeeping missions are not conventional armies, but disorganized militias (Somalia) or paramilitary units (Bosnia) These unconventional forces are usually fighting civil wars based on tribal or ethnic hatreds.
According to Global Security, so-called mission creep, or politically changing the initial goals of military intervention, is a danger in post-Cold War conflicts. A classic example of mission creep is the failed attempt at "nation-building" in Somalia.
Global Security, Part One is a mix of documentary film footage and interviews with United States military personnel and foreign policy experts. This mix of materials is both informative and interesting. However, many of the film clips show foreign soldiers, rather than U.S. military personnel, in the role as UN peace-keepers. A fast-paced introduction using Wagner's Ride of the Valkyries is the only music used in the video. Sound quality is clear and unobtrusive.
This short video could be used in military science, contemporary history, or introductory political science classes on foreign policy. Like most programs which deal mostly with current events it may become dated. This excellent program is accessible enough to be used at either the high school or college level. Recommended.