Meeting the Challenges of Global Leadership: 9/11 a Year On: October/December 2002 Issue: Peace Watch: U.S. Institute of Peace

Suddenly, there was new urgency to American leadership beyond its borders. "During the previous decade, American leadership relied on riding the waves of the American economic miracle, maintaining alliances, and managing regional conflicts that never touched our shores. It was more management than leadership," Hagel explained at the "9/11 a Year On" conference.

Taking a broader perspective reveals that "in many ways the benefits of globalization may reach only those who read The Economist," said Hagel. "Current economic and demographic indicators are a sobering reminder of the world that we must live in and lead."

In addition to disillusionment with globalization and resentment of American power and policy, lack of open societies, democratic institutions, and economic development in regions such as the Middle East have also contributed to the rise of such groups as al Qaeda.

Terrorism and weapons of mass destruction are our greatest dangers, shared with most of the rest of the world. As common interests, these dangers should not cause division among allies. "America cannot defeat these threats alone," said Hagel.

The responsibilities and consequences of American leadership have widened since September 11, Hagel noted. America's role is "inescapable and irreplaceable" in shaping global politics.

"The war on terrorism is a long-term endeavor which will require deep and wide levels of cooperation with many nations over many years in many areas: diplomatic, humanitarian, economic, trade, law enforcement, intelligence, and military force," continued Hagel.

The relationships, collective security agreements, and multinational organizations that, along with American power, have maintained international stability since World War II must continue to be nourished and strengthened, according to Hagel. "These associations and institutions have represented common denominator self-interests through coalitions of common interests."

Hagel averred that the world is ready to work with the United States when the cause is clear and just. He cited the Cold War, the Gulf War, and Afghanistan as examples. "Very few questioned our right to wage war against the Taliban and al Qaeda. It was not only our right, it was the responsibility of the United States to end that regime and the use of Afghanistan as a base for global terrorism."

Hagel called for engagement driven by more than cold security calculations, but also by a vision offering hope for prosperity and good governance. "This is especially critical in the Middle East, where democratic reform is the only answer to the politics of hatred, radicalism, and violence," he said.

Hagel concluded, "The challenges before us are great. But so is the potential for progress and an historic opportunity to help build a better world. This potential will not be fulfilled without American coalition-building and strong partnerships of common interests."

"Meeting the Challenges of Global Leadership in the 21st Century"
Address by Chuck Hagel, U.S. Senate