Anchors of Society

In the journey from underdeveloped to developed societies, a pivotal milestone lies in establishing robust institutions that uphold democracy's pillars: checks and balances, transparency, and accountability. These institutions form the bedrock of societal progress, fostering an environment conducive to economic growth, innovation, and prosperity, among other hallmarks of developed societies.

However, in underdeveloped societies lacking or compromising such institutions, there exists a distinct group of individuals crucial to maintaining societal stability and cohesion. These individuals, may referred to as the “anchors of the community,” operate at the grassroots level within families, neighborhoods, and local communities. They could be the wise sibling establishing a family business, bringing financial stability and wisdom to those around them, or the young college graduate, the first in their rural community, embodying hope and progress. Their significance lies not in formal titles or positions of power, but rather in their unwavering commitment to principles of fairness, justice, and collective welfare.

In challenging times, these anchors serve as beacons of hope, embodying resilience and fortitude amidst adversity. Yet, their resolve is finite, and in the face of rampant corruption, political repression, systemic injustices, and the absence of reform, many are confronted with a daunting choice: to stay and fight for change or seek refuge elsewhere. Possessing sought-after skills and abilities, some anchors find their way to a new home through immigration.

For those remaining in their communities, the departure of anchors marks the start of profound transformation. With each anchor leaving for foreign shores, the fabric of society gradually unravels, leaving behind a void that cannot easily be filled. The absence of these guiding lights renders communities vulnerable to exploitation, manipulation, and moral decay, accelerating the erosion of societal fabric.

As the exodus of anchors continues, the void they leave behind becomes increasingly apparent. One of the earliest manifestations of this phenomenon is a downturn in the economy, stemming from the loss of a skilled workforce and a decline in innovation. This repercussion disproportionately impacts the lower-income segments of society, exacerbating existing disparities and fostering a sense of unease and insecurity. Consequently, disillusionment spreads more rapidly, prompting even those anchors who initially chose to remain and advocate for change to reconsider their decision. Thus, a vicious cycle ensues, perpetuating societal instability and hindering efforts for progress.

Those who remain may cling to the illusion of progress, emphasizing superficial markers like the emergence of skyscrapers, luxury restaurants, and extravagant malls, or noting how street attire mirrors that of more developed societies. Yet, true development lies not in material wealth but in the strength and resilience of institutions safeguarding citizens' rights and freedoms.

As societal norms erode and corruption tightens its grip, the once vibrant tapestry of community life begins to fray. Opportunistic individuals, emboldened by the absence of moral authority, exploit chaos to further their agendas, perpetuating a cycle of exploitation and despair. Meanwhile, some within the community may attempt to leave, but lacking the skills for skill-based immigration, they are left with no choice but to risk for uncertain, sometimes even adventurous paths. However, by the time these signs become apparent, the irreversible decline has long been underway, the tipping point passed when the number of anchors fell below the threshold necessary for societal transition.

In the end, society may never realize the extent of its dependence on these anchors, even when standing on the precipice of collapse. Regardless, by then, it is too late to reverse the tide of irreversible decline. The moment when hope gives way to despair, is not a singular event but a gradual process set in motion shortly after the first anchor sets sail for distant shores.