PDF Summary:Unleashed, by Boris Johnson

In Boris Johnson's memoir Unleashed, the former British Prime Minister offers an inside look at his life and career. He recounts his transformation from a charismatic yet controversial figure into a respected statesman, detailing his experiences as the Mayor of London and leader of the country.

Johnson delves into the pivotal Brexit negotiations and his Covid-19 pandemic response, while also weighing in on crucial domestic issues like urban policy, infrastructure, and the UK's evolving international standing in the post-Brexit era. Tackling diplomacy, trade, and defense cooperation through vehicles like the Commonwealth and AUKUS, Johnson outlines his vision for a "Global Britain."

(continued)...

Other Perspectives

• The focus on self-governance may also ignore the potential disadvantages of isolation from EU mechanisms, such as reduced influence in European affairs and loss of access to the single market and customs union.
• The EU provides funding for numerous projects within the UK, including infrastructure, research, and development, which have a direct and positive impact on the lives of UK citizens.
• The EU has been working on increasing its transparency and accountability, with efforts to make legislative processes more open and understandable to the general public.
• Brexit may have been expected to offer benefits beyond economic gains, but the social and political costs, such as increased division within the UK and a loss of international influence, could potentially outweigh these non-economic benefits.
• The costs incurred might be seen as an investment in the UK's future ability to legislate in alignment with its own priorities and values, rather than as a loss.
• The term "efficiently" is subjective and can be interpreted differently across the political spectrum, leading to debates about what constitutes efficiency in governance.
• The concept of 'ever closer union' is often interpreted in different ways, and not all member states of the EU have the same vision or commitment to this principle.
• The concept of sovereignty is complex and can be enhanced by pooling decision-making on transnational issues, which require collective action.
• The UK's Parliament had the power to debate and vote on the implementation of EU laws into domestic law, which provided a level of democratic scrutiny and control.
• The regulations on items such as carrots and condoms are often misrepresented in public discourse, and the actual rules may be more reasonable and less onerous than suggested.
• National unity can be strengthened by participating in larger political entities, as it allows for a broader sense of identity and international solidarity.

Boris Johnson took charge of the complex and extended Brexit discussions after Theresa May's term and continued in this capacity after assuming the office of Prime Minister.

Negotiations for Brexit, which were first overseen by Theresa May and subsequently taken over by Johnson, were complex, detailed, and protracted, aligning with Johnson's predictions during his electoral campaign. During her time as Prime Minister from 2016 to 2019, May pursued a policy designed to maintain the highest possible conformity with the European Union's regulations and frameworks. Boris Johnson believed that a major advantage of Brexit was giving Britain the freedom to create its own policies, particularly in the regulation of Heavy Goods Vehicles, a sector where his experience leading London was hindered by EU rules that prevented the implementation of potentially life-saving initiatives for cyclists. Boris Johnson stepped down from his position in 2018, convinced that the approach taken by May's administration would diminish the impact of the campaign to leave the European Union.

When he took office as Prime Minister in July 2019, his approach to the negotiations represented a marked shift from earlier tactics. Boris Johnson firmly insisted on the United Kingdom's complete disengagement from the customs union and the single market, ensuring that the country would not be subject to the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice, would have the freedom to set its own trade tariffs, and would prevent Brussels from controlling how goods are regulated within its borders. Boris Johnson's approach to a stringent Brexit, despite causing widespread frustration, ultimately yielded successful results. Following intense and occasionally acrimonious discussions, the United Kingdom and the European Union reached an agreement on December 24, 2020. The accord not only delivered on the pledges made during the Brexit campaign but also laid the groundwork for a renewed alliance with European countries, allowing the United Kingdom to utilize its recently acquired freedoms to navigate a distinct path toward economic recovery in the aftermath of the Covid pandemic.

Achieving autonomy from the European Union while maintaining robust ties with nations across Europe.

Boris Johnson strongly believed that Brexit would be advantageous for both the UK and Europe, as it would transform the UK into a partner that is more engaged and active on the global stage. British policymakers have consistently endeavored to shape EU policy from within, yet their efforts have mostly been unsuccessful. The European Union was embarking on a distinct path. Boris Johnson, in his role as Prime Minister, was committed to showing the United Kingdom's continuous commitment to the security of its European partners and the value of lasting collaborations and alliances, while also upholding a position that was distinct from the European Union's efforts towards greater unification. Boris Johnson amusingly likened the UK's relationship with Europe to more of an auxiliary brace than an integral part of the main framework, a simile that humorously evolved into 'flying bucket' during one conversation.

While serving as the head of the government, Boris Johnson engaged in a variety of diplomatic exchanges with various countries. The United Kingdom's viewpoints and goals closely matched those of Poland, for instance. The political and diplomatic triumphs of the UK in partnership with other European Union nations depended on the tangible economic benefits that Brexit could offer the nation. Johnson deemed it essential to show how the United Kingdom's potential could be unleashed by Brexit. Boris Johnson frequently highlighted the opportunity for the UK to develop a unique strategy post-Brexit, aiming to position itself as a formidable competitor in areas like financial regulation, technology, and pharmaceuticals, driven by a quest for distinctiveness rather than antagonism. He saw the UK's successful vaccine rollout as early evidence of this approach's success.

Practical Tips

• Engage in local community discussions or forums that focus on the importance of being globally engaged citizens. You could organize a community book club or discussion group that reads and talks about books on global affairs and international relations. By doing so, you'll be contributing to a more globally aware community, reflecting the idea that an engaged UK could serve as a model for individuals to play a more active role in global matters.
• You can enhance your influence in group settings by practicing active listening and summarizing others' points before presenting your own. By doing this, you show respect for others' ideas and create a collaborative atmosphere, which can make your suggestions more palatable. For example, in a community meeting, listen to your neighbors' concerns about local issues, restate them to show understanding, and then introduce your ideas for solutions.
• Start a local interest group focused on European arts, cuisine, or history. This initiative can help you appreciate the diversity within Europe without the political context of unification. You could organize monthly meetups where members cook dishes from different European countries or watch European films, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
• Create a visual map of your commitments and interests to determine their significance in your life. Draw a circle and place the most integral parts of your life at the center, with auxiliary braces on the outer edges. This could include hobbies, job responsibilities, or volunteer commitments. Seeing this visual representation can help you prioritize your time and resources, perhaps leading you to reduce time spent on peripheral interests in favor of those at the core of your personal fulfillment.
• Develop a habit of writing opinion pieces or blog posts analyzing current events from the perspective of another country's interests, like Poland's, to practice seeing the world through a different geopolitical lens. This exercise will help you understand the complexities of international diplomacy and the importance of aligning with other nations' viewpoints.
• Start a blog or social media page where you discuss and predict the outcomes of political decisions in your community using economic principles. By doing this, you're applying the concept of analyzing political moves through an economic lens, much like the examination of Brexit's economic benefits. Your predictions can be based on local business growth, employment rates, or community investments following certain political actions.
• Network with professionals from countries that have strong trade relations with the UK. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with individuals and businesses in these countries. Engage in discussions, share insights, and learn from their experiences to better understand the international business landscape. This can open up opportunities for collaborations, partnerships, or even career advancements that capitalize on the UK's new economic position.
• Explore the latest UK-based technology startups and consider supporting them through crowdfunding platforms. This will not only give you a stake in the potential success of innovative tech ventures but also provide a real-world understanding of how the tech industry is evolving in the UK post-Brexit. Choose startups that align with your interests and offer solutions to current market needs.
• Create a personal case study by setting a goal and documenting the steps and outcomes to draw conclusions about your strategies. If you aim to improve your fitness, keep a detailed log of your exercise routines, diet changes, and health metrics. This approach allows you to see the direct results of your actions, akin to how a vaccine rollout can serve as a case study for a country's strategic success.

Boris Johnson's domestic policy includes his approaches to urban challenges, the advancement of infrastructure, environmental issues, and the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Efforts to reduce knife-related crimes also concentrated on bolstering the powers of law enforcement in the capital.

Boris Johnson ascended to the mayoralty of London with a strong emphasis on improving public safety, with a special attention to addressing the surge in knife-related violence in the city. Johnson rebuked Ken Livingstone for his failure to address the issue, arguing that Livingstone's dismissive and potentially prejudiced viewpoint, which attributed the root causes of knife-related violence to African culture, showed a deep lack of comprehension of the issue. Boris Johnson pledged with resolve to address the issue of knife crime, promising voters that those responsible would face consequences, a stance that played a significant role in his decisive victory in 2008.

Johnson recognized that the moment had come to honor the commitment he had pledged. He was profoundly affected and incensed by the senseless loss of young lives to violence, seeing it as a breach of his fundamental belief that all young people deserve the opportunity to fully realize their capabilities, and he was intimately familiar with the sorrow and exasperation that numerous families in London felt. Johnson acknowledged the importance of devising an all-encompassing approach to address the issue of knife-related violence, which would incorporate more than just social or economic elements. While he held the mayoral office, his strategies played a role in markedly decreasing the number of murders in London.

To effectively address crime, a comprehensive approach is required that not only deals with its root causes but also directly confronts the behaviors of those who break the law.

Johnson challenged the notion that fear or the necessity for self-protection are the sole drivers behind knife-related crimes, emphasizing that while many offenders claim self-defense as their reason, in reality, carrying a weapon greatly increases the chances of committing violence. Johnson therefore worked alongside the city's police force on "Operation Blunt," a campaign aimed at seizing knives and diminishing violence associated with gangs.

Boris Johnson aimed to adopt a holistic strategy for his domestic policies, addressing both criminal behavior and its underlying factors. In this strategy, the goal was to combine social consciousness with individual responsibility, guaranteeing educational chances while also pledging to create a firm and safe setting that would attract private capital.

Other Perspectives

• Fear and the necessity for self-protection might not be the sole drivers behind knife-related crimes, but they can be significant contributing factors that should not be overlooked.
• The presence of a weapon could act as a deterrent to crime, potentially reducing the chance of violence if it prevents a confrontation from escalating.
• The success of "Operation Blunt" relies heavily on the resources and commitment of the police force, which may be strained or inadequate for a sustained campaign.
• Adopting a holistic approach can be resource-intensive and may not be feasible given budgetary constraints or other practical limitations.
• Some critics argue that focusing on underlying factors may inadvertently diminish personal accountability for criminal actions.
• Social consciousness as a concept can be too vague to implement effectively in policy, leading to initiatives that are well-intentioned but lack the specificity needed to create change.
• Education alone may not be sufficient to address the complex social issues that lead to criminal behavior; other supports and interventions may be necessary to create meaningful change.
• The strategy may inadvertently prioritize the interests of investors over those of the community, potentially leading to gentrification and displacement of existing residents.

Boris Johnson's strategy for improving transportation and infrastructure in the capital included establishing an extensive network for cyclists, launching a newly designed bus, and advancing the development of the Crossrail initiative.

Johnson launched several ambitious and possibly contentious projects aimed at encouraging the use of public transport and reducing dependence on private cars, arguing that infrastructure investments like the establishment of Crossrail in the late 2000s would stimulate economic growth and increase the attractiveness of London to businesses, in an effort to address the city's chronic traffic congestion. Johnson was a strong advocate for the creation of a bicycle-sharing program in London, taking cues from the success of similar projects in cities like Paris, overcoming financial challenges and the skepticism of those who questioned the feasibility of cycling in a metropolis dominated by car traffic.

Boris Johnson's dedication to improving the safety of cyclists and encouraging the use of bicycles for travel in London was greatly shaped by the launch of the bike-sharing program sponsored by Barclays. Johnson also led the development of an updated Routemaster bus model, featuring a platform that facilitated quick and smooth entry for commuters. During his time in office, Boris Johnson focused on an investment strategy for transportation that prioritized the creation of an urban landscape conducive to the safe and pleasant movement of pedestrians, reliable public transport experiences, and secure cycling conditions.

Incorporating insights into how public transportation can enhance social mobility with the imperative to foster an environment conducive to a dynamic, market-stimulated economy.

Johnson observed that the decline of transportation infrastructure adversely affects the economic well-being of the city and deduced that for a metropolis to thrive, it is imperative to have a public transportation network that is reliable, reachable, and affordable, as this greatly facilitates the advancement of individuals who have fewer means. His approach to transportation, though eco-conscious, was rooted in practicality shaped by his tenure in municipal governance. Johnson acknowledged the significance of encouraging bicycle use, yet he understood that such an approach was not universally adaptable to all circumstances. The introduction of an updated Routemaster was met with great enthusiasm by the author, who stressed the importance of integrating advanced technology to improve its performance and reliability, surpassing that of earlier models.

Johnson championed the advancement of sophisticated transportation networks, understanding their role in drawing leading companies to cities, and therefore he supported significant transport projects across the country as a crucial part of his strategy to reduce regional disparities. Drawing from his experiences in London and his tenure in the central institutions of the European Union, Boris Johnson argued that the United Kingdom was trailing other wealthy countries of similar status and underscored the necessity of boosting investments to change the country's course.

Practical Tips

• You can make your daily commute more eco-friendly by opting for public transportation, carpooling, or cycling instead of driving alone. By doing so, you reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to less traffic congestion. For example, if you usually drive to work, try taking the bus or train a couple of days a week, or organize a carpool with coworkers living nearby.
• Encourage your workplace to support cycling by suggesting the implementation of bike-friendly facilities. Talk to your HR department or management about installing bike racks, showers, and lockers. Highlight how these changes can enhance employee well-being, reduce parking space issues, and contribute to the company's sustainability goals.
• You can explore the integration of technology in transportation by using apps that provide real-time updates on public transit. These apps often use advanced technology to track buses, trains, and other forms of public transport, giving you the ability to plan your trips more efficiently and avoid delays.
• Encourage your workplace to consider location decisions that prioritize access to transportation hubs, by discussing with your HR or management team the benefits of being near such networks. If your company is in a position to relocate or expand, your advocacy for a location near a transportation hub could influence the decision, potentially bringing more business and jobs to the area.
• Participate in community crowdfunding initiatives aimed at enhancing transportation infrastructure. This could be for bike-sharing programs, community shuttles, or even local road repairs. By contributing, you're directly investing in the economic well-being of your area and encouraging others to see the value in a well-maintained transportation system.

The strategy employed to handle the COVID-19 crisis encompassed implementing quarantines, conducting tests, and administering vaccinations.

The strategy employed by Boris Johnson to handle the COVID-19 pandemic, characterized by its complexity and unparalleled scope, included the imposition of movement limitations, the improvement of testing protocols, and the commencement of a vaccination campaign. Johnson's understanding of the virus shifted from viewing it as a trivial irritant to recognizing its potential to inflict considerable damage on the United Kingdom's health system and economic equilibrium. The author realized that his changing viewpoint was in line with the advice of top scientists, who, together with a general consensus among public health authorities at the pandemic's onset, recommended that the government cautiously introduce disease control strategies, considering the possibility that hasty enforcement could inadvertently hasten the spread of the disease.

Johnson believed that the UK's success in vaccinating its population, which he attributed in part to Brexit and the freedoms it brought, was a vindication of his own approach throughout the pandemic. Despite encountering significant public criticism due to the notorious 'Partygate' and accusations of duplicity, Johnson insists that the events were chiefly a collective response to a grave circumstance and adhered to the protocols established at that time. He firmly believed that the accusations arose from bitterness in the aftermath of Britain's decision to withdraw from the European Union.

The publication "Unleashed," authored by Boris Johnson, delves into the complexities of decision-making under uncertain conditions, drawing on lessons from past epidemics to comprehend the impact of government measures on societal and economic structures.

Johnson's work argues that his initial skepticism regarding the pandemic was influenced by previous experiences with zoonotic diseases, worries about government overreach, and the lasting impact these actions have had on both the economic steadiness of the UK and the well-being of its people. He reflects on his early underestimation of the virus, erroneously likening it to the chaotic handling of the bovine spongiform encephalopathy crisis in 1996 and the exaggerated fears surrounding the H1N1 pandemic in 2009. Johnson also acknowledged the perils of appearing indifferent, referencing the instructive story of the municipal leader in the film "Jaws," who opted to maintain Amity Island's accessibility to tourists despite the increase in shark incidents.

Johnson believed that prompt action from the authorities was essential as the virus spread rapidly, anticipating that the British public would adhere to the newly introduced rules. Mandates from the government, coupled with voluntary changes in conduct, resulted in a remarkably high level of compliance with the new restrictions on social gatherings. However, the author's awareness was sharply heightened regarding the societal and fiscal repercussions stemming from these actions. The author argues that the necessity of implementing a lockdown was clear, yet it also caused significant damage, especially to the disadvantaged, undoing many years of advancements in improving their standard of living. Johnson steadfastly believed that it was the duty of the government to repair divisions within society, a belief that fueled his "Strengthen and Renew" campaign.

Context

• This term refers to situations where a government extends its powers beyond what is considered reasonable or necessary, often infringing on individual freedoms or rights. Concerns about overreach can arise during emergencies when governments implement strict measures to control situations, such as lockdowns or surveillance.
• Commonly known as mad cow disease, BSE is a neurodegenerative disease in cattle that emerged in the UK in the 1980s and 1990s. It led to a crisis due to its link to variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) in humans, causing widespread panic and significant economic impact on the beef industry.
• The film "Jaws," directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 1975, is a thriller about a great white shark that terrorizes a small resort town, Amity Island. The town's mayor, Larry Vaughn, prioritizes the economic benefits of tourism over public safety, leading to disastrous consequences.
• Prompt action often involves implementing measures such as social distancing, travel restrictions, and quarantine to slow the spread and prevent healthcare systems from becoming overwhelmed.
• Government-provided economic support, such as furlough schemes, may have facilitated compliance by alleviating financial pressures on individuals and businesses.
• Government measures during pandemics often involve restrictions like lockdowns, which can lead to economic downturns, affecting employment rates and business operations, particularly in sectors like hospitality and retail.
• Disadvantaged communities may have less access to essential resources such as healthcare, technology for remote work or education, and financial support systems, exacerbating the challenges faced during lockdowns.
• The concept of "renewal" in political contexts often involves revitalizing infrastructure, investing in green technologies, and promoting sustainable development to ensure long-term resilience.

Boris Johnson's perspective on global challenges and international relations

The Global Britain initiative is aimed at elevating the international standing of the United Kingdom by developing relationships with countries outside of Europe.

Johnson viewed the commencement of Brexit as a trigger for a thorough reassessment of Britain's role on the global stage. He believed that the United Kingdom's focus on its relationship with the European Union resulted in less engagement with countries worldwide. Following the Cold War, the United Kingdom, alongside the United States, under the leadership of Clinton and Blair, was prepared to utilize their armed forces to spread Western values; yet, Johnson observed that the disasters in Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan had dampened public support for these kinds of military interventions.

Boris Johnson believed that the United Kingdom should leverage its extraordinary heritage and cultural history more efficiently. During his tenure as Foreign Secretary from 2016 to 2018, he was instrumental in creating a variety of new diplomatic posts and embassies in regions such as Africa, South America, and the Pacific. He aimed to strengthen international relationships, using his expertise and language skills to cultivate a Britain prepared to establish mutually beneficial partnerships. During his worldwide journeys, Johnson highlighted the unique role of the Commonwealth in facilitating cultural exchange and serving as a collaborative hub for technological and economic initiatives.

The aim was to enhance the United Kingdom's confidence by revitalizing historic partnerships, forging new international relationships, and challenging the power exerted by nations like China and Russia.

The strategy was designed to enhance the United Kingdom's position on the world stage by strengthening ties with countries that have strong economic, technological, and cultural links to the UK, and at the same time, executing a comprehensive revamp of the country's defense strategy. He recognized that the influence of Western nations was diminishing in comparison to countries such as China, Russia, and Iran, which necessitated a strong response. Boris Johnson considered the AUKUS pact with Australia and the United States to be a perfect example for strengthening cooperation in response to the growing ambitions of China, which included combined military efforts and collaborative technological projects. As tensions in Ukraine intensified, Johnson suggested an increase in defense spending to reach 2.5 percent of the nation's economic output before the decade concludes.

The author stressed the importance of strengthening Britain's defense forces while also asserting that the country's influence in cultural and diplomatic arenas significantly surpasses that of its physical assets. He argued that the United Kingdom's unique global influence arises from its combination of assets, including widespread use of the English language, renowned universities, innovative scientific discoveries, advancements in technology, a rich musical legacy, sports accomplishments, and cultural contributions, all of which could be harnessed to exert significant sway internationally.

Context

• The UK aims to position itself as a leader in technological innovation, focusing on sectors like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and green energy. This is part of a broader effort to enhance competitiveness and global influence.
• The strategy reflects a response to shifting geopolitical dynamics, where emerging powers are challenging the traditional influence of Western nations, necessitating a reevaluation of alliances and defense postures.
• Both China and Russia have significantly modernized and expanded their military capabilities. China has focused on developing advanced technologies like hypersonic missiles and expanding its naval presence in the South China Sea. Russia has invested in modernizing its nuclear arsenal and has been involved in various regional conflicts, asserting its military power.
• The formation of AUKUS has implications for international relations, particularly with China, which views the pact as a threat to its regional dominance. It also affects alliances and partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region, including reactions from countries like France, which was initially excluded from the agreement.
• NATO encourages member countries to spend at least 2% of their GDP on defense. Increasing to 2.5% would position the UK above this benchmark, signaling a commitment to stronger military capabilities.
• The UK's creative industries, including film, music, and literature, have a global reach, contributing significantly to its cultural influence and economic strength.
• English is the most widely spoken second language globally and is often used as the lingua franca in international business, diplomacy, and the internet, enhancing the UK's soft power.

The renewed strategy of the UK in engaging with its previous colonies offers a unique opportunity for worldwide cooperation via a unified body.

Johnson suggested that this unique group of nations, closely linked to the historical legacy of the British Empire, offers an important opportunity to strengthen the UK's ties with its former territories amid shifting international strategic concerns. Boris Johnson saw the Commonwealth as a chance to transform the association into a partnership marked by equal standing, unified by a shared language, similar values, and cooperative institutions. Johnson believed that while countries like India could benefit from the United Kingdom's expertise in areas like education, the United Kingdom could likewise learn from India's adeptness in utilizing solar energy and its robust goals and aspirations to become a major player on the world stage.

Boris Johnson passionately supported the Commonwealth, perceiving it as evidence of Britain's lasting importance, despite opinions that the country was waning. He advocated for the enhancement of trade within the Commonwealth and supported the simplification of visa procedures, thereby facilitating the ability of people from India and other member states to seek work and educational opportunities within the United Kingdom. The perception of the institution as a leftover from the colonial period by numerous individuals at the Foreign Office was a source of considerable annoyance to him. During his last attendance at the Commonwealth summit in Rwanda in June 2022, he passionately advocated for the Rwanda partnership as a means to tackle unlawful migration and voiced his dissatisfaction with the tepid response of the summit participants to Putin's aggression in Ukraine, along with the inadequate assistance offered to those affected.

Boris Johnson aims to bolster relationships with African nations, emphasizing the benefits of trade, shared values, and cultural exchanges to underscore the importance of solid alliances with the United Kingdom.

Boris Johnson believed that the United Kingdom did not act swiftly enough in enacting policy changes concerning Africa after the era of colonialism. The United Kingdom's political and diplomatic sectors did not leverage the substantial advantages of shared language, legal frameworks, and commercial connections with its former colonies, leading to a steady decline in this form of 'soft power.' The power vacuum created by the United Kingdom's retreat has been exploited by countries like China and Russia, known for their authoritarian governance and indifference to global standards, by supplying arms with no consideration for human rights and playing a major role in the establishment of crucial infrastructure and building endeavors.

Johnson strongly held the view that Britain's history of empire should be seen not as a cause for remorse or condemnation but as a cornerstone for establishing fresh, mutual connections. Observing his father Stanley's impact on environmental policy, Boris Johnson became convinced of the United Kingdom's wealth of expertise and abilities that could be beneficial to countries like Rwanda in addressing issues related to climate change. He championed the expansion of the UK's economic commitments in Africa and the Pacific Rim nations, underscoring the importance of these areas as future hubs of worldwide wealth and the necessity of seizing these emerging opportunities.

Context

• The UK has a strong tradition of educational exchange programs, which can be expanded to include more African students and institutions, fostering long-term relationships and mutual understanding.
• As globalization accelerated, the UK's delayed response may have hindered its ability to integrate African economies into global trade networks, affecting long-term economic partnerships.
• The UK’s approach to foreign policy often emphasizes human rights and democratic values, which can be a point of differentiation from other countries with less emphasis on these issues.
• Both China and Russia have increased their diplomatic efforts, hosting summits and forums with African leaders to strengthen bilateral relations and promote their global agendas.
• Both countries are motivated by strategic interests, such as access to natural resources, expanding geopolitical influence, and countering Western dominance in global affairs.
• Many former colonies are now emerging markets with significant growth potential. The UK can use its historical connections to foster trade and investment, benefiting both parties economically.
• The UK has mechanisms like the International Climate Finance (ICF) program, which could provide funding and resources to support climate initiatives in Rwanda.
• Africa is rich in natural resources, including minerals, oil, and gas, which are essential for various industries. The Pacific Rim also has abundant resources and is a hub for technological innovation and manufacturing.
• The Pacific Rim encompasses key maritime trade routes, such as the South China Sea, which are vital for international shipping and commerce.

The United Kingdom's economy has felt the effects of its choice to offer military assistance amid the crisis in Ukraine.

Boris Johnson played a pivotal role in garnering international support for Ukraine following Putin's unjustified attack in February 2022. He strongly condemned the aggressive conduct, viewing it as endangering Ukraine's survival and undermining the stability of security across Europe. He pressed his G7 peers to enforce the harshest economic measures targeting Russia. He aimed to create a worldwide coalition that could encounter obstacles because countries like India, with their deep-rooted connections to Russia or dependence on Russian energy, might be reluctant to endorse a global condemnation of Putin's conduct.

Even while the British economy was recovering from the pandemic's impact, Boris Johnson's commitment to Ukraine did not waver. He firmly believed that the struggle signified something beyond a mere proxy clash involving the United States and Russia, and it extended past the Kremlin's aspirations for expanding its territory. Boris Johnson contended that the struggle in Ukraine represented a battle to preserve the sovereignty of nations, their territorial sanctity, and the fundamental privilege of self-rule. Boris Johnson was a fervent supporter of Ukraine joining NATO, considering it a crucial element of stability, and he also formed a defense alliance with Ukraine that was unmatched by any of the United Kingdom's arrangements with other nations outside of NATO.

Balancing the moral imperative to help Ukraine resist Putin's aggression with the economic consequences for British citizens, as well as building a global coalition against Russia

Johnson's response required a tactically devised strategy to neutralize the aggressive actions initiated by Russia. He needed to show the UK's steadfast dedication to a country that aligns with our democratic principles and the quest for liberty, and which maintains a deep-rooted bond with us, especially because of the UK's pledge, alongside the US, to safeguard Ukraine's security as stipulated in the 1994 Budapest Memorandum. Boris Johnson recognized that the United Kingdom's ability to offer military assistance was limited, making the deployment of troops an impractical option, particularly because the conflict was taking place in Europe. Consequently, it would be up to the Ukrainians to confront Putin primarily.

Johnson worked alongside Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, resulting in the UK being the first European country to send anti-tank missiles in January 2022, a strategic decision made long before tanks were sent across the border by Putin. In his dealings, Johnson's contribution was to reinforce Zelensky's resolve, ensuring the UK's steadfast opposition to any proposals that Ukraine cede territory to Russia, despite the pressure from other countries for a settlement. In April 2022, Boris Johnson's dedication to supporting Zelensky and his sense of duty led to a secretive trip to the Ukrainian capital by rail.

Practical Tips

• Start a book club focused on literature from countries facing political challenges to better understand different perspectives on democracy and liberty. This can be a simple gathering with friends or an open community group. Choose books written by authors from Ukraine or other regions where democratic principles are under threat to foster a deeper understanding and empathy for their situations.
• Enhance your critical thinking skills by analyzing the effectiveness of past security pledges in preventing conflicts. Look into historical case studies where international guarantees were given, and assess their outcomes. This exercise will help you understand the complexities and limitations of security assurances in international politics.
• Start a blog or podcast discussing historical military strategies and their outcomes. This will allow you to explore and share insights on the practicalities of military decisions, like troop deployment, without needing expert knowledge. You could interview local historians or military enthusiasts to delve into the complexities of strategic planning with limited resources.
• Create a personal mantra that reinforces your commitment to your values and goals. Repeat this mantra when facing pressure to give up on something important to you. For example, if you're committed to not lowering your freelance rates, your mantra could be "My work adds value, and I stand firm in its worth."
• You can express solidarity with a cause by writing letters of support to its leaders. Similar to the way a high-profile visit can boost morale, your letters can show leaders of movements or organizations that they have international support. For example, if you're moved by the efforts of environmental activists in a particular country, send a letter to their organization expressing your admiration and encouragement.