The protection of American interests anywhere globally policy was brought forth on 12th April 1917 by President Woodrow Wilson. The President then declared war against Germany that had continuously been attacking United States allies, and its interests at sea. This declaration shaped the global relations America finds itself in fighting wars some that it has no interests to protect at all (Bonner, 2009). This has continued to accentuate the norm held by many global nations that America dwells on force and fraud to acquire what it needs.
The sinking of Lusitania, a British ship which ended lives of 128 Americans and the attack on Housatonic, an American cargo ship was one of the crisis that led to establishment of this policy. These acts pushed President Wilson to cut off diplomatic ties with Germany (Bonner, 2009). Wilson was of the opinion that America would not tolerate the German aggression any longer. He managed to convince the congress that America had the moral right to stand by its principles by fighting those threatening them (Cooper & Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, 2008).
This policy has been very effective in establishing the American foreign policy. America has become the custodian of democracy and peace. It has also managed to place America at the helm of the global politics as a global power. America due to this policy wields much power in the internal organizations and political offices globally. On the flip side, the policy has seen America spend much of its taxpayer’s money on wars that it has no geopolitical interest.
The policy would be much efficient if it were to be amended. The policy needs to dwell expressly on the American interests only. For instance, in its politico-economic engagement with other nations should center on ensuring its balance of trade is maintained. The imports and exports should be at par. The country is currently in debt. It has numerous liabilities which are as a result of its global policy regarding its interests.
References
Bonner, B. (2009, April 25). Globalization and its Discontents. The Daily Reckoning.
Cooper, J. M., & Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. (2008). Reconsidering Woodrow Wilson: Progressivism, internationalism, war, and peace. Washington, DC: Woodrow Wilson Center Press.
