Comparing Kamala Harris' Foreign Policy Stance to Previous Vice Presidents

Introduction

Kamala Harris, as Vice President under Joe Biden, has made notable contributions to U.S. foreign policy, reflecting both continuity and change compared to her predecessors. Understanding her stance involves analyzing her priorities, strategies, and the broader context of American diplomacy.

Details

• Emphasis on Multilateralism

  • Kamala Harris strongly advocates for rebuilding alliances and strengthening multilateral institutions.
    • This contrasts with the more unilateral approach seen in the previous administration under Mike Pence, where America First dictated foreign relations.
  • Harris has actively participated in international summits, signaling a commitment to global cooperation.
    • Past vice presidents like Al Gore embraced multilateralism but often in reaction to specific crises rather than as a proactive strategy.

• Focus on Climate Change

  • Harris prioritizes climate change as a significant aspect of national security and foreign policy.
    • This approach builds on Biden's commitment to rejoining global environmental agreements like the Paris Accord, emphasizing the role of climate diplomacy.
  • Previous administrations often relegated environmental concerns to lower priority, with few vice presidents making it a core focus.
    • For instance, Dick Cheney's tenure lacked significant engagement in international environmental initiatives.

• Human Rights Advocacy

  • A notable feature of Harris' foreign policy is her focus on promoting human rights internationally.
    • This mirrors Joe Biden's administration's effort to restore the U.S. position as a leader in advocating for human rights.
  • While past vice presidents have addressed human rights issues, often they took more of a reactive approach rather than Harris's proactive stance.
    • For example, Joe Biden's own tenure as Vice President had instances where responses to human rights abuses were seen as secondary to geopolitical interests.

• Geopolitical Rivalry and Security

  • Harris has addressed the challenges posed by nations like China and Russia, emphasizing a strong security posture.
    • This signifies continuity with the previous administration’s focus on rivalry but with more emphasis on diplomatic avenues.
  • Her position differs from previous vice presidents, who often focused on avoiding confrontation rather than crafting comprehensive strategies.
    • For instance, Biden and Harris have shown a readiness to strengthen alliances with China competitors in the Indo-Pacific, an active stance less emphasized by past vice presidencies.

• Engagement with the Global South

  • Harris promotes the importance of engagement with Latin America and other developing regions, particularly addressing issues like migration and economic development.
    • This initiative seeks to tackle root causes of challenges rather than only responding to crises.
  • Vice Presidents before her, such as Pence, had a more transactional view, focusing primarily on immediate diplomatic or security concerns rather than long-term developmental relationships.

Conclusion

Kamala Harris' foreign policy stance reflects a blend of established diplomatic practices and a refreshing commitment to issues like climate change and human rights. By emphasizing multilateralism, proactive engagement, and addressing foundational global challenges, she is carving a distinctive path in the Vice Presidency that addresses contemporary global dynamics while learning from the lessons of her predecessors. Harris' approach illustrates a strategic shift towards an inclusive and multifaceted U.S. foreign policy that could redefine the role of future vice presidents in global affairs.