Kurt Campbell, chairman of the Asia Group and former national security coordinator for the Indo-Pacific in the Biden administration, delivered a stark warning about the dangers of American isolationism at a Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) event. The gathering marked the fifth anniversary of the announcement of the AUKUS security pact between Australia, the UK, and the United States.
Campbell acknowledged that US willingness to collaborate with allies “occasionally is lost” but expressed hope for a return to a more globally engaged America. He argued strongly against retrenchment, stating, “I believe that this enduring quality of American diplomacy will see a brighter day again.”
He added, “I would simply say that the idea that we will enhance our security by withdrawing from allies and partners is deeply, profoundly misguided. And we have many historical examples of moments of American retrenchment. In almost every case that has led to degrees of global calamity. And so I’m all for opportunities to work constructively with allies and partners.”
Addressing the United States directly, Campbell urged the removal of barriers that hinder cooperation, advocating for a shift toward a “much higher degree of humility” in partnerships. He called for building coalitions to protect aid workers and uphold the international rules upon which countries like Australia depend for their security and prosperity, as well as advocating for a UN system better equipped for current uncertainties.
Humility in partnerships? Sure. But did anyone actually listen when he said this five years ago? Or is this just late?
Campbell is right. History shows isolationism almost always backfires. We need partners, not walls.