Contemporary Issue Journal Entry #1

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Portland Community College *

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464

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Sociology

Date

Nov 24, 2024

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5

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The Yemeni Civil War: A Tale of Destruction and Resilience Introduction This journal entry delves into the Yemeni Civil War, a contemporary global conflict, aiming to explore its repercussions on daily life and the emergence of resistance against militarization. The objective is to scrutinize the genesis, progression, and aftermath of this conflict, establishing links to militarization, global interdependence, and colonialism themes discussed within the course. The Yemeni Civil War presents a striking nexus to these themes, offering crucial insights into the intricate nature of militarization in the modern era. Conflict Identification The Yemeni Civil War is a classic illustration of how local grievances and power struggles can quickly evolve into a much larger and convoluted crisis, drawing in various regional and international actors. Saudi Arabia, feeling threatened by the rise of Houthi rebels and fearing increased Iranian influence in the region, initiated a military intervention in 2015 to support the ousted Yemeni government. This military intervention, known as Operation Decisive Storm, garnered a coalition of regional states. In contrast, Iran has been accused of providing significant support to the Houthi rebels, further complicating the conflict. The international involvement in the Yemeni Civil War underlines the concept of global interdependence. It illustrates how a conflict in one region can have extensive and profound
consequences not only for the immediate geographic area but also on a global scale. The Yemeni crisis has a ripple effect, impacting international relations, economies, and security paradigms far beyond the borders of Yemen. This underpins the interconnectedness of the modern world, where actions and conflicts in one part of the globe can reverberate across continents, affecting nations and individuals who may initially seem far removed from the conflict. Connection to Course Themes and Readings The Yemeni Civil War resonates with pivotal course themes, particularly militarization, colonialism, and the intricate interplay of conflicts within global power dynamics. It sheds light on how geopolitical interests, particularly concerning resources like oil, intertwine with militarization and consequently impact the daily lives of people in Yemen and beyond. Catherine Lutz's work, "Making War at Home in the United States, [1]" critically illuminates the effects of militarization on domestic life, offering valuable parallels to the Yemeni context. The Yemeni conflict provides a vivid illustration of how militarization is not confined to a specific region but is deeply entwined with broader global forces. In this case, the conflict has become a stage for various external powers, each with its interests and agendas. This highlights how militarization isn't merely a localized issue but has a far-reaching impact that extends well beyond the immediate conflict zone. Origins and Historical Context
The Yemeni Civil War can be traced back to the Arab Spring and the subsequent removal of President Ali Abdullah Saleh. The political unrest, economic challenges, and deep-seated grievances against the government set the stage for Houthi rebels to assume power in 2014. The intervention of Saudi Arabia, driven by concerns over Iranian influence, further fueled the conflict, resulting in extensive devastation. Implications for Daily Life The Yemeni Civil War has left an indelible mark on daily life, unfolding into a complex crisis that has shaken the core of Yemeni society. The devastation is deeply distressing, with lives shattered, families torn apart, and communities grappling with the aftermath of relentless violence. The loss of life, both direct and indirect, has been catastrophic, further exacerbated by the collapse of healthcare systems, food insecurity, and the critical scarcity of clean water and sanitation facilities. The consequences of this upheaval are far-reaching, underscoring the urgent need for humanitarian intervention and a comprehensive strategy to rebuild a nation torn apart by conflict. According to OxFam, “More than 60 per cent of the population (17.8 million people) are without enough to eat. Over 8.4 million of these people are one step away from famine. About 16 million Yemenis do not have access to safe water sources, with rural areas most affected [2].” One of the most harrowing consequences is the widespread displacement of families, forcing them to abandon their homes in search of safety and shelter. This has become an all-too-common reality in Yemen, with families embarking on perilous journeys, uncertain of their future and
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struggling to secure even the most basic living conditions. Infrastructural decimation has only exacerbated the crisis, leaving critical elements like roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals in ruins. This not only disrupts daily routines but also impedes economic activities, pushing people further into poverty and intensifying their struggle for survival. Amidst this turmoil, the most vulnerable, the children, bear the brunt of malnutrition, disease, and psychological trauma, which stifles their growth and potential contributions to society. A comprehensive and immediate humanitarian response is indispensable to alleviate this suffering and pave the way for a more stable and hopeful future for the Yemeni people. Practices of Resistance Amidst the bleak circumstances, resilience and resistance have emerged against militarization. Local NGOs and international organizations have tirelessly worked to provide humanitarian aid, encompassing food, medical assistance, and educational programs. Yemeni activists and journalists have displayed immense courage, risking their lives to document the war's impact, advocate for peace, and demand accountability for human rights violations. International efforts for peace negotiations are ongoing, underscoring the collective resistance against the perpetuation of militarized conflicts. These endeavors highlight the potency of global solidarity in challenging the destructive impacts of militarization on societies. Conclusion
The Yemeni Civil War epitomizes the interconnectedness of global conflicts, militarization, and their far-reaching implications on daily life. According to World Vision, “Conflict has displaced more than 4 million people, of whom nearly 80% are children and women. Millions lack access to basic healthcare, clean water, and sanitation. [3]” It underscores the imperative of addressing the fundamental causes of militarized violence and emphasizes the significance of fostering peace and stability. Through an analysis of this conflict, we glean valuable insights into the complexities of contemporary militarization and the urgent necessity for a more harmonious and equitable world. References 1. Lutz, C. (2002). Making War at Home in the United States: Militarization and the Current Crisis. American Anthropologist, 104(3), 723-735. 2. Oxfam. (n.d.). Daily life: Struggle for survival in Yemen. Retrieved from https://www.oxfam.org/en/daily-life-struggle-survival-yemen 3. World Vision. (n.d.). Yemen war facts. Retrieved from https://www.worldvision.org/disaster-relief-news-stories/yemen-war-facts#:~:text=Confli ct%20has%20displaced%20more%20than,%2C%20clean%20water%2C%20and%20sani tation .