Communication and Media Network: An Analysis from Human Security Perspectives

The end of the Cold War has not only transformed the international political landscape but it has also changed our understanding of international relations theory. Perhaps, international relations theory has started to move its focus from state to human survival. In recent times, the international political landscape witnessed how information technology, through its communication network, impacts human security. Mass movements in Egypt and Syria are among incidents on how access to information technology and media influence the society. Is the communication network good for human security and survival? Is the comprehensive security framework not suitable for the Southeast Asian states to protect their people? Based on the cases of Tunisia, Egypt and Syria, the article analyses how access to good communication and information networks impact human security and why the human security concept is more suitable within the context of international relations theory. This article adopts a qualitative method and content analysis while referring to both primary and secondary documents, including official reports, academic books and journals to explain the concept and issues of human security. Even though the study focuses on the theoretical aspects, the findings of the study provide empirical evidence. It is hoped the study will contribute to our understanding about human security issues and international relations theory based on communication network and media.