Internationalism is fascinating. Youth from around the world met in Bali this past weekend to discuss our plans for the UN climate change conference, harmonize our actions, and streamline our approach. Our aim was to deliver a consistent, global, youth message to delegates and media. We wanted to cooperate around an international standard.
The astounding breadth of globalization’s impact didn’t truly strike me until these meetings. We craved international consistency in our messaging. But it was more than that. There was sameness in our facilitation techniques (“twinkle fingers” indicating our degree of agreement, flip-charts and post-it notes). There was a certain similarity in our individual histories (well traveled, active volunteers, trained in leadership). Even while traveling to Bali, the stores in airports on three different continents were hawking exactly the same goods.
The reasons for consistent international standards are clear: there are efficiencies when the basics are already covered; there’s strength in one voice representing many numbers; there’s an effectiveness in consistent messaging; better clarity of our demands; well articulated, thoughtful, and inclusive communications. But there’s a risk, too.
Sometimes, new, better, pioneering ideas are marginalized because they don’t fit with the established norm. Our similar personal histories might bias the group’s approach. Newness and individualism might be stifled for the sake of efficiency and consistency. Just like in an ecosystem, rich individual diversity makes for a strong and resilient whole, so homogenizing ourselves makes us vulnerable.
The balance that the international youth at Bali need to achieve is one that represents our collective concerns while still maintaining our individuality. The balance is integrating innovation with reliable, understood standards.
And the relationship between balance and internationalism couldn’t be more obvious than at these very negotiations. It’s incredibly important that a balance is struck between individual national interests and international harmony. Just like with our international youth delegation, I hope that the UNFCCC can harness the efficiencies and strengths of globalization and collective interest, while taking advantage of the rich diversity that’s in the room.
