Human security

This chapter introduces the reader to security theory and practice, including the concept of human security as conceptualized and operationalized in the book. The chapter begins by situating the book within a broader global context characterized by major global trends most notably: interconnectedness, interdependence, decline in multilateralism, proliferation of non-state actors, technological advance, and a security landscape in flux as exemplified in part by the current reality of COVID-19 pandemic. The chapter then discusses the lay of the land with regard to security theory and practice before tracing the history, origin, and evolution of the human security concept. Finally, it provides a working definition of the concept for the book and presents the book’s human security conceptual framework. The chapter’s main argument is that human security provides a better framework for understanding, preventing, and responding to 21st-century security challenges, including climate change, pandemics, disasters, and terrorism among others. © 2023 selection and editorial matter, Jeremiah O. Asaka and Alice A. Oluoko- Odingo;individual chapters, the contributors.