Fridtoj Nansen

March 22, 2011 at 7:10 am (Uncategorized)

I have a new role model.

Not the kind that’s on a dollar bill or where all the ‘good’ kids in Sunday School answer “Jesus.”

Fridtoj Nansen, the world famous Norwegian explorer, was the League of Nation’s (pre-United Nations) first High Commissioner for Refugees. During this time, in the early 1920’s, the world was faced with an international dilemma that brought all global attention. Due to the expansion of nation-states in Europe, common ‘ethnic cleansing’ policies, the Russian Civil War, and millions of stateless individuals created a multitude of individuals that were excluded from citizenship due to language, location, ethnicity or religious affiliation.

Nansen’s role on an international scale during a time of such chaos and disunity allowed for first steps of international collaboration. His institution of the Nansen passports and communication between neighboring countries allowed for the first international efforts in regards to the growing refugee pandemic. For the first time, countries were beginning to establish relationships based on the common goal and responsibility of upholding human rights.

Nansen’s contribution during this time was so evident that upon his death in 1930, the international response to displaced individuals was brought to a complete halt.

In the realm of international relations, it becomes necessary to reflect on the two defining elements of Paulo Freire’s revolutionary concept: reflection and action. In order to transform the world, the two must go hand in hand. Upon reflection of the mistreatment of humanity in Eastern Europe, Nansen recognized the need to do something. His reflection led him to believe the best possible solutions resulted in globalization, international communication, and upholding social justice.

According to Freire, language is never neutral – let us use our critical minds and reflect upon the indecencies of the world. Then let us act.

Let us bring another Nansen.

“Interest does not tie nations together; it sometimes separates them. But it is sympathy and understanding that unites.” ~Woodrow T Wilson