Monitoring Policy Making at the United Nations |
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Week of October 8 - 12, 2007 What's New
Week of October 15 - 19, 2007
What Was New
Iraq Security Council Empire? Social and Economic Policy International Justice
Iraq
Week of October 15 - 19, 2007
Four Hired Guns in an Armored Truck, Bullets Flying, and a Pickup and a Taxi Brought to a Halt. Who Did the Shooting and Why? (April 15, 2007)
This Washington Post article describes three shooting incidents involving Jacob Washbourne, a private security contractor working for a US company in Iraq who, prior to the shootings, told his colleagues about his desire to "kill somebody today." While reports differ, witnesses agree that Washbourne warned other contractors not to report the incidents. Although Washbourne was fired and there was a brief company investigation, no military investigation or prosecution for the alleged crimes has occurred.Putin Wants US Date to Quit Iraq (October 18, 2007)
According to Russian President Vladimir Putin, the US is engaged in a "pointless" battle in Iraq and should set a date for withdrawal. In a question and answer session, Putin told the Russian public that while the US can remove a "tyrannical regime . it's absolutely pointless to fight with a people." He said the US remains in Iraq with the motivation to control Iraq's oil reserves. (BBC)Crocker Blasts Refugee Process (September 17, 2007)
Iraqi refugees seeking resettlement in the US may wait up to two years before being admitted into the country. In a State Department cable, Ambassador Ryan C Crocker criticizes the bureaucratic obstacles in processing some 10,000 refugees referred by the UN for refugee status in the US. He recommends fast tracking security checks, increasing the number of processing officers and conducting interviews in Baghdad. Washington has been criticized since the beginning of the war for its reluctance to accept Iraqis, many of whom work alongside the US. Since 2003, the US has accepted only 1,521 Iraqi refugees. Meanwhile, Syria and Jordan struggle to accept the 60,000 refugees that flee across Iraq's borders each month. (Washington Post)Report of the Secretary-General on the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (October 15, 2007)
UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon reports on the work of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). The Secretary-General summarizes political developments in Iraq, citing political boycotts, assassinations, resignations and the formation of alliances. He criticizes the inadequate effort by the Iraqi government to provide basic services to internally displaced Iraqis The report concedes that ongoing violence in Iraq impedes the work of the UN in dealing with human rights violations, including the plight of detainees held in Iraqi and MNF facilities. The Secretary-General suggests there is an opportunity for the UN to increase its role in Iraq, especially in the area of national reconciliation.Weapons Left By US Troops 'Used as Bait to Kill Iraqis' (October 4, 2007)
The US military is accused of using an arbitrary strategy to catch "enemy combatants" by placing weapons and equipment on the ground and targeting Iraqis who pick them up. The tactic came to light during a murder trial involving three US soldiers accused of killing civilians and then placing incriminating evidence on the bodies to justify the killings. While the US military denies authorizing the murder of Iraqis and placing "drop weapons" to lure insurgents, military sources confirm that "baits" are often used as part of counter insurgency operations. (Independent)Ex-General Calls Iraq a 'Nightmare' (October 13, 2007)
Former US military commander, Lieutenant General Ricardo Sanchez, says the current White House policy in Iraq is flawed. The General argues that the US is living an endless nightmare and criticizes the surge strategy of President George Bush and General David Petraeus. He suggests that "there has been a glaring, unfortunate display of incompetent strategic leadership." Sanchez' comments join a long list of complaints from other returned military commanders. (Aljazeera)Guards Kill Two Women in Iraq (October 10, 2007)
Guards working for an Australian run private security company, Unity Resources Group, are accused of shooting and killing two women in Baghdad who were driving behind the company's convoy. The shooting comes less than a month after the deaths of numerous Iraqi civilians by the US security firm, Blackwater. In both cases, the Iraqi government argues that the contractors should be subject "to justice, law and accountability." (Washington Post)Progress Report: The Most Expensive Year of the War (September 26, 2007)
US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates requests US$50 billion from Congress in addition to the US$141.7 billion appropriated in February 2007 to fund the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Commentators suggest that by 2008 the Iraq war will exceed the costs of the Korean War and approach the full cost of the Vietnam War - at US$600 billion. Analysts say that "in 2004, the two conflicts cost US$94 billion, in 2005 US$108 billion, in 2006 US$122 billion . and 2008 will be higher than 2007." (Center for American Progress Action Fund)UN Assistance Mission for Iraq: Human Rights Report (April 1 - June 30, 2007)
The eleventh quarterly UNAMI report is released three months after its July 2007 end date. The report criticizes the Iraqi government for the inadequate response to the humanitarian disaster, particularly the plight of internally displaced refugees. The report documents widespread human rights abuses including prolonged detention, torture and an absence of due process for detainees held in Iraqi and MNF facilities and it calls for more judicial oversight. UNAMI also cites the killing of numerous Iraqi civilians by Blackwater, and urges the US to establish mechanisms to hold military contractors accountable for crimes committed in Iraq.Security Council
Africa's Missing Billions: International Arms Flows and the Cost of Conflict (October 2007)
This report shows how the illegal arms trade can disable development in African countries. The report estimates around US$300 billions have been spent since 1990, during African civil wars, money that could have been used to solve problems of HIV, education, water and diseases. The authors believe that Africa needs an effective Arms Trade Treaty a step to resolve this crisis. (IANSA, Oxfam and Safeworld)Ethiopia's 'Own Darfur' As Villagers Flee Government-Backed Violence (October 17, 2007)
The border between Ethiopia and Somalia suffers from the displacement and killing of civilians. The author claims that Ethiopian troops should be held accountable, as they burn villages suspected of protecting the separatist rebel group, Ogaden National Liberation Front. Although the UN condemns Ethiopia's actions, the country has the US and Britain as its allies and they insist Ethiopia was defending itself against a rebel insurgency. The US sees Ethiopia as a strong partner in the Horn of Africa in the US's "war on terror." (Independent)State of Emergency Imposed Even As Peace Talks Conclude (October 16, 2007)
Eastern Chad seems caught between three interconnected conflicts: the effects of neighboring Darfur, the tensions between the government and rebel groups, and disputes among local eastern communities. Although the Chadian government and opposing rebels are attempting to negotiate a peace treaty, the fighting in the region continues. Rebel leader, Mahamat Nouri, and government spokesman, Hourmadji Moussa Doumgor, announced that the pending treaty will only bring "partial peace," and will not substitute for the UN peacekeeping presence in the region. (Integrated Regional Information Networks)
Sudan Chief Meets Southern Leaders to End Dispute (October 16, 2007)
The rebel group, Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) has stated that key elements of the 2005 peace agreement have still not been implemented, including troop deployment and the demarcation of a North-South border. Critics suspect the Sudanese government's indifference to the North-South issue results from hostilities toward the southerns. SPLM and similar groups complain that the international community focuses on Western Sudan, specifically Darfur, while the displaced persons and mortality rate of Sudan's North-South conflict continues to escalate. (Reuters)
Libya and Vietnam Elected to Two-Year Terms on UN Security Council (October 16, 2007)
The five newly elected two-year members of the UN Security Council include two former US nemeses, Vietnam and Libya, bringing different perspectives to the Council. Although these countries have been building relations with the US, for example recent oil deals with Khadafi's Libya. The two countries may differ with the US on certain Council policy issues. Vietnam, for example, may not approve sanctions against Iran or Burma. The General Assembly also elected Burkina Faso, Costa Rica and Croatia. (Washington Post)Expert Urges UN to Withdraw from Mideast Quartet Unless Palestinians Rights Respected (October 15, 2007)
John Dugard, the UN Human Rights Council investigator on Israel-Palestine reported that the US led-Mideast Quartet ignores the humanitarian abuse and economic strife imposed by the Israeli government. Dugard suggested the UN withdraw from the Mideast conference unless Palestinian rights are seriously taken into account. According to Dugard, the UN should also request a world court ruling opposing Israel's barrier in the West Bank. Furthermore, the UN should help Hamas and Fatah resume agreements, as he believes this is the best alternative to the crisis. (Associated Press)India, Brazil, South Africa - The Power of Three (October 14, 2007)
India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA) will meet on October 17, 2007 to discuss their candidacy as permanent members of the UN Security Council. These three countries joined together in 2003 to oppose the G-8 and to advocate for South-South cooperation. Having similar economic and political profiles, the IBSA countries view themselves as major actors within their respective regions. The author suggests that this Southern consortium could strengthen their possibilities of achieving memberships. However, this alliance may also alienate neighboring countries. (Inter Press Service)Empire?
The World According to Uncle Sam (October 18, 2007)
This Moscow Times article draws parallels between the Nobel Peace Prize, awarded in 2007 to Al Gore for his campaign against global warming, to the general political state of the world, in particular US foreign policy. It concludes that even though the Nobel Prize is political, it has not really generated any changes, as for an example with Aung San Suu Kyi in Myanmar. The author claims that the war in Iraq has put an end to the unipolar world order and has paved the way for a global system with several big players.US Attorney General Candidate Rejects Torture, Vows Independence (October 19, 2007)
US President George Bush has picked Michael Mukasey to replace Alberto Gonzalez as US Attorney General. Mukasey has been surprisingly candid about torture and says that the president has no authority, under any circumstances, to order the use of torture. Political analysts suggest that Mukasey's statements may be indicating a new direction of the government, to improve the US image concerning torture. (Christian Science Monitor)Pelosi and the NSA (October 16, 2007)
Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, has admitted that she knew all along about President George Bush' decision to have the National Security Agency (NSA) survey US citizens without a court warrant. Qwest Communications was the only telecom firm to reject NSA's request to monitor telephone calls and internet transmissions, saying it was illegal. Other companies like AT&T received very profitable government contracts in return for forwarding private information. (TomPaine)Verizon Says It Turned Over Data Without Court Orders (October 16, 2007)
Verizon, the second largest US telecom company, admitted to Congress that it had provided federal officials with customer information over 700 times since 2005, often without an official court order. Intelligence officials demanded data that could "identify a calling circle," including, Verizon customers' contacts and their information. Defending their actions, Verizon and other major US telecom firms say that it is not their role to determine whether government requests violate civil liberties. (Washington Post)Outpost of Empire (March 2007)
The US has up to 1000 military bases in more than 130 countries around the world. These bases project US military power globally, but they also have a record of causing harm to the civilian population. US military personnel murdered a woman in Korea in 1992 and gang raped a 12 year old girl in Okinawa in 1995. Hundreds of other crimes have been committed on Okinawa, the largest US base in the world, but the perpetrators are exempt from national jurisdiction. (Red Pepper)Apocalypse Now? (October 29, 2007)
Chalmer Johnson's book Nemesis compares the US to the Roman Empire, and says that the US is bound to meet the same fate as its Roman counterpart. Just as Julius Caesar's imperial adventures and attack on the constitution ultimately caused the fall of the republic, the Bush administration's expanding military interventions and attack on civil liberties will destroy the "American republic," Johnson argues. (The Nation)Social and Economic Policy
Scarcity Amid Abundance (October 16, 2007)
This Inter Press Service article investigates the links between economic growth and inequality in Latin America. While Latin American countries are among the world's largest food producers, poverty and hunger are huge problems in the continent. The article looks in detail at the various projects and policies that have been implemented by governments in Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina and Uruguay to reduce hunger and concludes that they have been relatively successful.Even as Economy Lags, Corporate 'Green' Push May Advance (October 15, 2007 )
Historically, when the economy slows down, companies shelve plans for environmentally friendly investments. In 2007 the situation is a little different. With oil costing more than US$80 per barrel, investing in sustainable energy could turn out to be profitable for many companies. Business and market analysts predict that while economic growth might slow down in the US, companies may implement as many as 80 percent of their "green" initiatives. (Christian Science Monitor)
1929 Redux: Heading for a Crash? (October 11, 2007)
This transcript of journalist Robert Kuttner's testimony to the House Financial Services was published by AlterNet. In his testimony, Kuttner draws attention to the similarities between today's financial situation and the circumstances surrounding the 1929 crash. He warns against the strong belief many US officials have in self-regulating markets and calls for a higher degree of financial regulation in order to reduce the risk of another major financial crisis.Global-Warming Skeptics: Is it Only the News Media Who Need to Chill? (October 11, 2007)
Some climate change skeptics claim that the concerns about global warming are the result of media hype. Skeptics say the catch-cry of global warming is similar to the fears of "global cooling" in the 1970s. This article from the Christian Science Monitor argues that this is an unfair comparison. Those who doubt that climate change is taking place are simply resurrecting the climate cooling arguments in order to find a reason to oppose the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's warnings. While fears of climate cooling was a short-lived theory that never sat well in the scientific community, global warming is backed by sound data.The Environmental Movement in the Global South: The Pivotal Agent in the Fight against Global Warming (October 12, 2007)
This article from Focus on the Global South challenges the myth that developing countries lack concern for the environment and simply wish to grow economically in the same fashion as rich countries. National elites in poor countries may argue that their countries have yet to fill their "pollution quota" as have the rich countries, and therefore they should proceed with rapid industrialization. But, citizen campaigns against large dams in India and deforestation in Thailand and the Philippines are examples of local communities trying to overcome pressures for industrialization and advocating for a healthier environment.Aid for Sexual Health Declining (October 10, 2007)
NGOs and EU politicians are worried about the decline in development aid directed at sexual health and family planning. They insist that providing sexual health services is both a moral imperative and an important factor in reducing poverty. Every year more than 500,000 women die from complications during pregnancy and child birth. In addition to the immediate loss of lives, problems of poverty arise due to insufficient health care and excessive population growth. Increased funding could allow women to choose how many children they want to have and they could then find themselves in more favorable economic conditions. (Inter Press Service)A Sea Change: The Wind Farm Revolution (October 11, 2007)
This Independent article explains how Britain can easily become the largest producer of offshore wind power. Although there has been strong public opposition to on-shore wind turbines, the public and the government give a thumbs up to offshore wind farms. Still, producers face a long time lag on their wind-energy investments due to time-consuming bureaucratic procedures. Installing a wind farm can take up to 10 years to complete, significantly obstructing the production of renewable energy sources.Stemming the Trickle-Up Effect: Finding Alternative Economies (October 11, 2007)
Income and wealth inequality is growing in the US. The richest one percent now earn as much as the bottom 33 percent of the population. Concerned citizens are establishing "solidarity economy networks" to promote social justice. These networks follow in the wake of many alternative wealth-creation institutions that workers and citizens have set up to create more equal employment and wage arrangements. Economic experts gathering in Washington in October 2007 agree that setting up communities such as the solidarity networks and employee stock ownership plans could be a good approach to reduce the inequalities in the US economy. (Inter Press Service)Big Banks Are Selling Us Out on Climate Change (October 6, 2007)
Coal is the largest contributor to climate change. Still, the US is planning to build another 150 coal fired power plants. This AlterNet article argues that two banks, CitiBank and Bank of America, are the largest financers of companies involved in coal consumption and extraction. In 2006, they lent 200 times more money to non-renewable energy production than to companies producing clean energy while publicly trying to pass off their lending activities as environmentally friendly. The author argues that to reverse global warming, the government must regulate carbon emissions and banks must stop funding dirty energy.International Justice
ICC Insists Kony Must Face Prosecution (October 11, 2007)
The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an outstanding arrest warrant for Joseph Kony and three other commanders of the northern Uganda guerrilla group, Lord's Resistance Army (LRA). Accused of crimes against humanity in DR Congo, the LRA continue to threaten the regions stability and its people. Luis Moreno Ocampo, ICC chief prosecutor, urged the international community and MONUC to support the DRC and Ugandan efforts to make these arrests. Uganda's government responded by saying it might suggest that the ICC lift the arrest warrants, if the rebels sign the peace agreement and answer to the charges. (New Vision - Kampala)Genocide Suspects End Hunger Strike (October 12, 2007)
Detainees held in Arusha, Tanzania protest against the proposed transfer of three suspects to Kigali to stand trial in the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR). The three suspects are charged with genocide and crimes against humanity. The protestors argue that the ICTR is not independent and the judiciary is not impartial. Further, they argue that the government in Kigali is led by alleged masterminds of the 1994 killings which claimed the lives of over 500,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus. (Daily News)Chileans Order Peru's Ex-Chief Home for Trial (September 22, 2007)
Alberto K Fujimori, Peru's former president, faces extradition from Chile for human rights abuses and corruption charges. Legal commentators suggest the ruling by Chile's Supreme Court signals a victory against corruption and impunity. Lawyers see the decision as a "breaking point in international law" as it demonstrates the workings of domestic courts to hold former heads of state accountable rather than leaving it to political deals between governments. Lawyers also note the significance for Chile given its reluctance to preside over its own human rights abusers. (New York Times)
Week of October 1 - 5, 2007 What's New
Week of October 8 - 12, 2007
What Was New
Iraq Security Council Empire? Social and Economic Policy Nations and States Secretary General International Justice
Iraq
Iraqi President Backs US Senate Proposal to Decentralize Iraq (October 8, 2007)
A US Senate resolution which calls for the division of Iraq into separate regions receives widespread opposition in Iraq. However, Iraqi President Jalal Talabani, a Kurd, has expressed support for the proposal and says the resolution does not undermine Iraqi unity. He also calls for a withdrawal of 100,000 US troops by the end of 2008 but suggests that three US bases remain in the country. (Voice of America)
In Iraq, Repeated Support for a Unified State (October 1, 2007)
The US Senate endorses a resolution sponsored by Democrat Senator Joseph R Biden Jr, partitioning Iraq into different federal regions. Although the resolution is non-binding, it signifies that US senators hope to divide Iraq along sectarian lines. Iraqis express disbelief at the resolution and argue that a divided Iraq would "complicate the security problem." (New York Times)House OKs Bill to Prosecute Contractors (October 4, 2007)
The US House of Representatives passed a bill in which all private contractors working in Iraq and other "combat zones" will be subject to prosecution by US courts. In a statement, the White House criticizes the bill as having "intolerable consequences for crucial and necessary national security activities and operations." Despite opposition from the White House, the legislation signals a shift away from the immunity enjoyed by US contractors for crimes committed in Iraq. (Associated Press)Two Different Accounts of Deadly Airstrike in Baghdad (September 29, 2007)
At least seven Iraqis were killed by a US military airstrike in the district of Abu Dshir in Baghdad. According to Iraqi witnesses, residents gathering for a traditional Ramadan game came under fire from US helicopters. The US military claims that the aircraft was aiming at Mahdi Army fighters, the militia loyal to cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. However, witnesses suggest that the militia is complying with a ceasefire called by Sadr in August 2007 and that the US military is lying. While a US military spokesperson reports that "collateral damage was not observed" residents attend funerals of those killed. (New York Times)Al-Maliki Says Iraq is Secure for Expanded UN Role (September 23, 2007)
Secretary General Ban Ki-moon says peace in Iraq cannot be achieved by military means and calls for regional cooperation to ensure the country "continues efforts at reconciliation." The call comes after a meeting between Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, the Secretary General, Security Council members, representatives of regional and international organizations and the Group of Eight leading industrial nations to discuss greater UN participation in Iraq. Commentators suggest, however, that the US and Britain are merely pushing Iraq's political problems onto the UN so that the coalition troops can pull out. (Mail and Guardian)Hospitals Under Pressure as Doctors Move Abroad (September 6, 2007)
According to the Iraqi Medical Association (IMA), up to 75 percent of doctors, pharmacists and nurses have left their jobs and 55 percent have left the country. Doctors are leaving due to a lack of access to medicines and equipment, low salaries and threats from militants who reportedly kidnap doctors who treat patients from a different sect than the militants. The IMA reports that the shortage of medical staff across Iraq is critical especially in small towns and villages. (Integrated Regional Information Networks News)Only a US Withdrawal Will Stop Al Qaeda in Iraq (October 5, 2007)
The US government argues against withdrawal from Iraq on the basis that forces must stay and defeat "al-Qaeda in Iraq" (AQI). Raed Jarrar and Joshua Holland suggest that a timetable for withdrawal is the only way to eliminate AQI. With the US presence, many political groups, such as the Anbar Salvation Front, who attempt to defeat al-Qaeda are seen by Iraqis as collaborating with the occupiers. Public opinion research shows that while all of Iraq's ethnic groups oppose AQI, half of all Iraqis support the group's attacks on coalition troops. This suggests that as long as the US stays in the country, AQI will remain there too. (AlterNet)Making a Killing (October 15, 2007)
Jeremy Scahill argues that the September 16, 2007 shooting by Blackwater follows a long line of incidents in which the private security company has indiscriminately killed Iraqis. According to Scahill, in the last four years Iraqi officials tried unsuccessfully to contact the US government with their concerns about the impunity of the firm. However, despite evidence of widespread abuse, Blackwater continues to operate in Iraq and secure million dollar contracts for "diplomatic security services." (The Nation)Iraq Struggles With Cholera Outbreak (October 7, 2007)
The World Health Organization reports over 3,300 confirmed cases of cholera in Iraq. At least 14 Iraqis have died from the disease. Some commentators point to fractures in Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's government, the "sectarian" divide in Iraqi hospitals and lack of access to medical supplies as reasons for the outbreak. However, other commentators blame the US for failing to reconstruct crucial infrastructure and placing restrictions on the importation of chlorine for fear that it will be used by insurgents in bomb making. (Tehran Times)Bush Knew Saddam Had No Weapons of Mass Destruction (September 6, 2007)
In this Salon article, the author explores information which has come to light since the occupation of Iraq suggesting the US knew Iraq did not have WMDs. Two former CIA officers say a week before the October 2002 vote when the US House of Representatives and the Senate authorized military force against Iraq, CIA director George Tenet briefed President George Bush with documents stating Iraq did not possess WMDs. According to the former officers, Tenet did not pass on this intelligence to then-Secretary of State Colin Powell, or senior military planners. The author speculates whether wider dissemination of the assessment would have stopped the US march to war.Security Firm Faces Criminal Charges in Iraq (September 23, 2007)
The Iraqi interior ministry is investigating a total of seven incidents involving the actions of private security firm Blackwater USA. Both the Iraqi and US governments are investigating the shooting of numerous Iraqi civilians in the Nisour area of Baghdad. The other six episodes being investigated involve the deaths of 10 Iraqis and 15 wounded in incidents during 2007. Iraqi officials say they will consider all seven incidents to determine the practical and legal consequences for Blackwater and other security firms operating in Iraq. (New York Times)Security Council
Arms Continue to Flow into Darfur, Security Council Expert Panel Finds (October 10, 2007)
The UN Security Council sent experts to analyze the arm embargo in Darfur. The mission ended in August 2007. The Expert Panel report indicates that the Sudanese government and rebel groups do not respect the UN arms embargo, and continue to traffic weapons through Chad and Eritrea's borders. Constant hostilities among the parties, the Sudanese government and rebel groups, lessen the possibility of peace. Because these groups violated international humanitarian and human rights law, the experts recommend a stronger UN presence in the whole of Sudan. (UN News)UN Security Council Will Not Impose Strict Restrictions on Arms Deals (October 6, 2007)
Amnesty International urged the UN Security Council to impose an arms embargo on Myanmar. Ironically "all the permanent nation members within the UN Security Council are profiting lucratively from the sales and transfer of weapons to other countries." If the Council takes any action on this issue of arms, which seems unlikely, it will act against its own arm trading. International organizations like the International Peace Research Institute, consider the US and Russia as the 'biggest global arms dealers.' (Readings From A Political Duo-ble)Peacebuilding Efforts in Sierra Leone Must Address Natural Resource Governance (October 10, 2007)
In 2006, the UN Security Council requested that the Peacebuilding Commission help Sierra Leone devise a strategy for reconstruction and poverty reduction. Although this country has a long history of natural resource exploitation, a June 2007 PBS draft does not refer to this issue. In response, Global Witness submitted a report to the PBC indicating the link between the exploitation of natural resources and the root causes of Sierra Leone's civil war. It also recommended that the Commission include natural resources post-conflict management, in countries where exploitation funds conflicts.Olmert Deputy Urges Talks on Future of Jerusalem (October 8, 2007)
A US-sponsored conference on the Middle East will take place in November, where Ehud Olmert and Mahmoud Abbas agree to a "comprehensive peace." Negotiators from Israel and Palestine have already started to draft a joint document to present at the peace talk. Israel considers trading "some Palestinian areas within Jerusalem for Jewish settlement blocks in the occupied West Bank." However, Israel will not concede authority over Jerusalem but will allow greater access to the Palestinians. The author does not mention either Hamas, the people in Gaza or Syria within in the peace agreement agenda. (Reuters)The Water Problem (October 8, 2007)
A UN report predicts that water will be the main cause of conflicts in Africa over the next 25 years. Water disputes already exist in the Middle East and African Countries, especially concerning rivers and basins that flow through different nations. Humans can only consume 2.5 percent of the world's water, and even less is technologically and economically accessible. Population growth, the misuse of water and limited access, creates desertification. Unless strong institutions establish and act on prevention and management of these conflicts, an immense crisis will emerge. (Daily Star)The Course of Oil in the Great Lakes of Africa (October 3, 2007)
European and US companies benefit from the misuse of Congo's natural resources and support the illegal arms trade. A 2003 UN Security Council Panel "largely documented the nexus of economic exploitation, arms trafficking, and armed conflict, stating that illegal exploitation remains one of the main sources of funding groups involved in perpetuating conflict." This article states that local conflicts become regionalized when foreign countries intervene. The author is concerned that without an effective and honest government, resource-driven conflicts will continue. (Fahamu - Oxford)UN Warns Israel Over 'Enemy' Gaza (September 19, 2007)
In mid-June 2007, Israel declared Gaza an "enemy entity" and said it will cut off power, water and fuel supplies to Gaza. The US backs Israel's position, while Saeb Erekat, senior Palestinian negotiator, considers the action illegal and believes it will only "complicate matters and breed more violence." UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon condemned the Israeli action and reminded Israel about international humanitarian and human rights law. (al-Jazeera)International Tug of War Complicating Lebanon's Election Outcome (October 1, 2007)
Lebanese parliament members must vote on a new president by November 23, 2007. After the chaotic 2005 Syrian-influenced constitutional amendment, the UN Security Council is hoping for a free and fair election. The presidential candidate is still undefined and with all the "foreign powers" "pushing and pulling" a consensus will take time. In addition, the UN peacekeeping force (UNIFIL) maintains control over South Lebanon, on the border with Israel, to monitor Hezbollah's influence and promote regional peace. (Integrated Regional Information Networks)Empire?
In 2004 the US Justice Department publicly denounced torture. However, according to this New York Times article, shortly afterwards the US secretly endorsed interrogation techniques equivalent to torture. In the leaked "torture memo," techniques include "head-slapping, simulated drowning and frigid temperature." The author of the memo, a Legal Counsel official, said that no tactics were illegal, unless they resulted in pain similar to organ failure or death.Five Years On... (October 10, 2007)
The editor of The Nation sees the war against terror as a war without an end and one that will continue to weaken US security and democracy, rather than strengthen it. She says there should not only be a public debate about how to 'get-out-of-Iraq,' but more importantly a debate about how to get out of the other war - the war against terror, which is nothing but "a formula for unlimited militarization."Chevron's Pipeline Is the Burmese Regime's Lifeline (October 3, 2007)
As the junta continues to kill and imprison monks and civilians in Burma, the resource-rich, but sanctioned country stays economically afloat. Burma is rich in natural gas, something that US oil company Chevron benefits from. US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice, a former Chevron board member, speaks critically against the human rights violations in Burma, while remaining quiet on who is financing the military regime. (AlterNet)Too Late for Empire (August 14, 2006)
Many journalists and policy analysts have compared the US occupation of Iraq with the US role in Vietnam. In both conflicts, the US used a similar rhetoric to justify its interventions, such as the "communist threat" and the "war on terror." This article says that for the last thirty years, different administrations have been repeating the same policies. The US will not advance as a nation before it drastically changes its foreign policy by limiting the use of force. (The Nation)No Such Thing as Humanitarian Intervention (March 21, 2007)
The newest dogma in the international community, following Humanitarian Intervention in the Nineties, is the Responsibility to Protect, adopted by the UN in 2005. The author of this Harvard International Review article looks at four cases where so-called humanitarian intervention took place, namely the First Gulf War, Somalia, Rwanda, and Bosnia. He warns about embracing new doctrines for humanitarian intervention uncritically as states with geopolitical interests can hide behind a moral obligation. According to the author, the consensus among many Western leaders, that humanitarian interventions are above criticism, vilifies any attempt to discuss alternative solutions.Social and Economic Policy
Even as Economy Lags, Corporate 'Green' Push May Advance (October 15, 2007 )
Historically, when the economy slows down, companies shelve plans for environmentally friendly investments. In 2007 the situation is a little different. With oil costing more than US$80 per barrel, investing in sustainable energy could turn out to be profitable for many companies. Business and market analysts predict that while economic growth might slow down in the US, companies may implement as many as 80 percent of their "green" initiatives. (Christian Science Monitor)The Financial Crisis: Burst Bubble, Frayed Model (October 1, 2007)
This article by economics professor Robert Wade explains the financial crisis brought about by turmoil in the US mortgage markets. He discusses the impact of trade imbalances in general and the US trade deficit in particular, the role of consumer debt and the importance of the US total debt-to-GDP ratio for future global economic growth. Wade suggests that the financial turmoil might encourage the US to shift from a neo-liberal economy and more government control on markets. (openDemocracy)The Frustrations of CERF (October 9, 2007)
Emergencies Director of Save the Children UK Toby Porter expresses his frustration with the UN's Central Emergency Response Fund. He argues that the fund, designed to better attract and coordinate funds for humanitarian assistance, is inefficient and does not sufficiently involve NGOs in the aid distribution process. His organization and many others experience increasing difficulty in obtaining donor support for new crises. Porter highlights the UN's reputation as inefficient and badly administered, thus questioning its position as the de facto aid distributor. He argues that it is more important to bring assistance into disaster areas immediately rather than arguing over who should provide the assistance. (Humanitarian Practice Network)Hydropower Doesn't Count as Clean Energy (October 5, 2007)
This article from Earth Island Journal questions hydropower's reputation as a "clean energy source". Data shows that hydroelectric dams are in fact responsible for large scale methane emissions, suggesting that they could be contributing as much as 4 percent of the greenhouse gas emissions that are causing global warming . If methane emissions from dams were taken into consideration, India's greenhouse emissions would increase by 40 percent. The data on methane emissions is disputed by some scientists and more research is needed on the topic. Still, the findings have convinced other scientists to recommend investments in more efficient renewable energy resources such as solar, wind and geothermal options.Zoellick Charts Inclusive Course At World Bank (October 9, 2007)
As poor countries turn to other sources for credit, World Bank President Robert Zoellick seeks to reverse the Bank's current reputation as an almost irrelevant institution. With the slogan "Inclusive and sustainable globalization" Zoellick emphasizes the benefits to the US and Europe of free trade and cooperation with middle income countries such as China and India. He justifies collaboration as a means to better influence and control these economies so that their growth seems less threatening to richer countries. Critics wonder whether this is an appropriate objective for an institution that supposedly aids poor countries. (Wall Street Journal)The Making of a Climate Movement (October 22, 2007)
A large number of environmental activists have founded the coalition 1 Sky to influence environmental policy in Washington. The group says that climate change is the most important issue of our generation. The group hosts a series of demonstrations to convince US politicians to cut carbon emissions by 80 percent by 2020, to ban coal-fired power plants and to create 5 million "green collar jobs". 1 Sky representatives say that government bills "must match what science says," and that Washington must stop applauding itself for its limited actions to stop climate change. (The Nation)The Government Sanctioned Bombing of Appalachia (October 9, 2007)
The US public still depends on coal for more than half of its electricity needs. However, US coal plants are responsible for more than forty percent of the country's CO2 emissions. In addition to contributing to climate change, coal mining is ruining local communities. Mining companies are tearing down forests and mountains to make room for the mines, and many areas are suffering from large scale pollution. This article from AlterNet looks at the effects of the government sanctioned and subsidized coal mining on villages in West Virginia.Massive Inequality is Unexamined Fault Line Behind GM Walk-Out (October 2, 2007)
In the first half of the twentieth century, US labor unions struggled successfully to improve wages and working conditions. The unions had support from high level politicians, among them President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who proposed the idea of a maximum wage to counter income inequality. Even though the Congress never adopted the maximum wage, high wages were held down by high taxes. Since then, US administrations have lowered tax rates and the strength and influence of labor movements has been diminished. Organized General Motors auto workers are now trying to reverse the trend, as was demonstrated in their factory walkout in October 2007. (AlterNet)Empowering Women to Combat Climate Change (September 28, 2007)
This article explains how gender inequality grows when disasters occur. Climate change will have particularly strong effects in poor areas of the world, and the majority of the poor are usually women. A range of women's organizations suggest that if women were better informed of possible changes in weather patterns and forthcoming disasters, local communities would stand a larger chance of survival. They also argue that as women possess significant "generational knowledge" on local agriculture and safety, it would be extremely beneficial to include women in community decision making. (MediaGlobal)Behind London's Boom, Billionaires from Abroad (October 5, 2007)
London is now rivaling New York as the world's financial capital. Business is soaring and the city is experiencing an influx of foreign billionaires spending their money in the city. The foreigners are attracted by London's strategic business location and by very favorable tax arrangements. London officials are seeking to attract rich business people bringing money to town, and London mayor Ken Livingstone has established offices in China and India to attract high-end investors. However, the expansion of wealth in London is driving up prices making it difficult for ordinary inhabitants to continue living in an increasingly elite city. (Wall Street Journal)For the Yachting Class, the Latest Amenity Can Take Flight (October 2, 2007)
The very rich have long been spending their money on fancy cars and big yachts. While a yacht is still a desired luxury product for those with high incomes, a yacht with a private helicopter and submarine is now the "real deal." Reports from the Monaco boating fair indicate no reduction in luxury purchases despite higher oil prices, a falling dollar and warnings of global warming. Rather the very rich tend to buy bigger and more expensive yachts, and to equip them with ever more advanced accessories. The report serves as a reminder of the extreme differences in a world of increasing inequality in income and wealth. (New York Times)Big is Beautiful (May 7, 2007)
This article in The Nation describes the history of US renewable energy sources as "an appalling tale of missed opportunities and willful negligence." The US government provides little support to renewable energy production, but gives billions of dollars in direct subsidies every year to producers of fossil fuels. The author is optimistic, though, about the prospects for renewable energy production and particularly wind power. Unfortunately the US government fails to provide any substantial investment to improve the state of the country's electricity grid. The current inadequate state of the grid limits the use of carbon-free electricity and the US' ability to rely on renewable energy sources.As US Food Dollars Buy Less, International Agencies Differ Over How to Use Aid (October 2, 2007)
World food prices are soaring which means every dollar of the US food aid budget buys less food for distribution to poor countries. A coalition of NGOs is urging Congress to increase the food aid budget and use a larger part of it for long term development projects. The NGOs suggest that poor countries should have more of a say on how and where to spend food aid resources and this will help reduce the poor countries' dependency on foreign aid in the future. USAID and the World Food Program oppose this suggestion, claiming such an arrangement would reduce their flexibility to respond to emergencies. (New York Times)Nations and States
The Dismantling of Yugoslavia (October 2007)
This Monthly Review article tells the story of a dismantled Yugoslavia, where not only internal problems, but also external political pressure, especially from the US, tore the country apart. According to the article, the US - acting through NATO - legitimized the military interventions in Bosnia and Kosovo by calling them "humanitarian interventions." At the time, the Security Council did not approve the interventions, but it later provided the US with an ex post facto legitimacy. The authors argue that Western media and politicians have simplified the history of the Balkan civil wars, portraying the wars as a battle between good and evil, while neglecting the role and interests of the US.Secretary General
"Sometimes You Really Need to Speak Up" (October 7, 2007)
From the beginning of his term, NGOs criticized UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon for not being outspoken enough. But now Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International praise the Secretary General for his strong words on Myanmar, calling the junta's attack on monks and civilians "abhorrent and unacceptable." Furthermore, Ban now supports a moratorium on capital punishment, something he would not do earlier. (Independent Online)International Justice
Liberia to Press Ahead with Bid to Seize Taylor's Assets (September 25, 2007)
The Liberian parliament has rejected a bill aimed at seizing the assets of former Liberian President Charles Taylor. Independent legal experts in Liberia claim the bill is unconstitutional as it attempts to remove Taylor's assets while he is still being tried before the International Criminal Court. As well as numerous accusations of war crimes, Taylor is accused of receiving diamonds from Sierra Leone's Revolutionary United Front in order to fund the war that claimed over 120,000 lives. (Agence France Presse)A Mockery of Justice (October 4, 2007)
International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo argues there can be no political or humanitarian solution in Sudan as long as the Sudanese government allows alleged war criminals to go free. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon is wary of pressing Khartoum to comply with ICC arrest warrants for fear that the government will renege on UNAMID deployment. However, commentators suggest international pressure is the only way to ensure the government complies with its legal obligation to arrest suspects who are within Sudan's borders. (Harvard Crimson)Surrender Kosheib (October 3, 2007)
Ali Kosheib, a "Janjaweed" leader from Sudan is released by the Sudanese government for a lack of evidence, despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant charging him with crimes against humanity and war crimes. Another ICC suspect, Ahmed Haroun who is charged with a number of war crimes, was appointed by Khartoum as co-chair of the committee that presides over human rights abuses in Darfur. Commentators argue that both cases demonstrate Sudan's disregard for the Security Council resolution that requires cooperation with the Court. (All Africa)
