Government Must Put Its Own Citizens First, Not Foreign Policy

By focusing on the needs of its citizens first, governments create stronger, more prosperous nations that are better equipped to contribute meaningfully to the global community. Nationalism, when combined with responsible governance and a commitment to global cooperation, serves as a force for good in both domestic and international spheres.

However, the implementation of nationalist policies must be carefully managed to avoid exclusion, ensure global cooperation, and prevent authoritarianism. Balancing national pride with global responsibilities and inclusivity is essential for the positive aspects of nationalism to be realized.

The primary duty of any government is to safeguard the welfare of its citizens. This principle forms the core of nationalism, a belief that a country's resources, policies, and decisions should prioritize the needs and interests of its people before those of other nations.

Nationalism, when applied thoughtfully, can strengthen national unity, boost economic growth, and foster a sense of pride and belonging. However, for these benefits to materialize, nationalist policies must strike a balance between national priorities and global responsibilities, avoiding isolationism and the risk of authoritarianism.

Historical Nationalist Leaders

Nationalist policies have shaped the course of history, with leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Winston Churchill, and Donald Trump standing out as proponents of nationalism in varying forms.

• Mahatma Gandhi's nationalism was rooted in anti-colonialism, emphasizing the importance of India's sovereignty and independence from British rule. His focus on self-reliance, embodied in the concept of "Swadeshi," encouraged Indians to produce their goods rather than relying on imports.
• Winston Churchill, while seen as a patriot and nationalist, rallied the British people during World War II to defend their homeland. Churchill's brand of nationalism was essential in fostering resilience during a time of great peril for the nation.
• The Trump administration's "America First" agenda epitomized modern nationalist policies, focusing on renegotiating trade deals, holding NATO allies accountable for defence spending, and reducing America's entanglements in foreign conflicts. Trump's policies, such as sanctions on North Korea and China, were designed to protect American interests while also compelling other countries to bear a greater share of their global responsibilities.

Nationalism vs. Isolationism

It is crucial to clarify that nationalism is not synonymous with isolationism. Nationalists advocate for prioritizing domestic issues, such as the economy, infrastructure, and the well-being of citizens, before engaging in global interventions. This focus on "taking care of home first" is not a rejection of international relations but rather a recalibration to ensure that foreign engagements are beneficial and necessary.

• Isolationism, Nationalism, when properly implemented, ensures active participation in global matters yet with a firm eye on national interest.

Nationalists believe a strong, prosperous nation is better equipped to engage with the world on favourable terms. This approach leads to more equitable trade deals, responsible military engagements, and a foreign policy that does not compromise the needs of the domestic population for the sake of distant conflicts or alliances.

Nationalism's Definition and Misconceptions

One of the key challenges in discussing nationalism is the pervasive misconceptions surrounding the term. Critics often equate nationalism with xenophobia, racism, or exclusionary policies. While it is true that nationalist movements can be exploited to promote divisive ideologies, this is not an inherent feature of nationalism itself.

• Patriotism vs. Racism: Nationalism, at its core, is about pride in one's country, culture, and heritage. It is a sense of belonging and loyalty to one's nation, not a belief in racial or cultural superiority. This distinction is critical to making nationalism a force for unity rather than division.

Local Leadership and Connection

In nationalist societies, the proximity of leadership to the people they serve is vital for effective governance. Nationalist policies often emphasize decentralization, ensuring that leaders have a close connection to the cultural, economic, and social realities of their citizens.

• Cultural Understanding: Leaders who share the experiences of their citizens, having lived through similar struggles and triumphs, are better equipped to address local issues. This local connection fosters trust and ensures that leadership remains attuned to the needs of the populace.
• Accountability and Responsiveness: Nationalist governments are more directly accountable to their citizens. The electorate has the power to remove officials who fail to meet their needs. In contrast, in globalist frameworks, leaders are often insulated by layers of bureaucracy and technocracy, distancing them from the people they serve.

American Nationalism

America’s foundation rests on nationalist principles, and this has contributed significantly to its rise as a global power. The United States has always prioritized its national interests, from George Washington’s policy of non-entanglement in foreign affairs to the Monroe Doctrine, which emphasized American autonomy in the Western Hemisphere.

• Unity and Integration: Nationalism fosters a sense of unity and pride among citizens, creating a shared identity that transcends regional or cultural differences. This can strengthen social cohesion and lead to greater national stability.
• National and International Balance: Prioritizing national issues does not mean neglecting global responsibilities. A balanced nationalist approach can ensure that a country is well-positioned to participate in international affairs without overextending itself. For instance, Trump's renegotiation of trade deals like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) ensured that American workers were protected while maintaining important economic relationships.

The Future of Nationalism: Balancing National Interests with Global Realities

The resurgence of nationalism in the 21st century has reignited debates about the role of the nation-state in a globalized world. While nationalism offers a path to strengthen internal cohesion and improve governance, it must also evolve to meet the challenges of an interconnected world.

• Global Cooperation: Nationalist governments must still engage in global diplomacy, trade, and environmental efforts. Cooperation on international issues, such as climate change and global health, is essential for any country to thrive in the modern era. However, this cooperation should not come at the expense of a nation's sovereignty or the well-being of its citizens.
• Avoiding Authoritarianism: Nationalism, like any political ideology, can be exploited by leaders seeking unchecked power. To prevent this, strong democratic institutions and checks on government authority are essential. Nationalism should empower the people, not concentrate power in the hands of a few.

By focusing on the needs of its citizens first, governments can create stronger, more prosperous nations that are better equipped to contribute meaningfully to the global community. Nationalism, when combined with responsible governance and a commitment to global cooperation, can serve as a force for good in both domestic and international spheres.