January 14, 2007
never again once again
Bearing in mind that nations do not want to give up their national sovereignty, the UN should disregard respect for national sovereignty in certain cases such as genocide. By standing back and not acting upon reports of mass massacres and genocide, the UN does not follow through on its core beliefs. General Dallaire told Frontline “Rwanda will never ever leave me. It's in the pores of my body. My soul is in those hills, my spirit is with the spirits of all those people who were slaughtered and killed that I know of, and many that I didn't know. … Fifty to sixty thousand people walking in the rain and the mud to escape being killed, and seeing a person there beside the road dying,” (Frontline). The UN should have intervened. What happened in Rwanda is devastating. Bill Clinton, US president then, apologized to Rwanda for having limited help. But will apologizing to a nation for purposely failing to act erase this horrid history. Will admitting that Rwanda was a mistake bring back the million lives that were lost? Will “never again” happen again?
the Charter, Rwanda, Dallaire
The UN claims to have not been able to intervene due to national sovereignty. However, according to the UN charter, nations are obligated to intervene in human rights violations. While the UN claims to not be able to intervene, article 34 states: “The Security Council may investigate any dispute, or any situation which might lead to international friction or give rise to a dispute, in order to determine whether the continuance of the dispute or situation is likely to endanger the maintenance of international peace and security.” This gives the UN the right to investigate any issues it deems dangerous to rights of individuals or groups. The UN knew about the genocide. The United States knew about the genocide. An interview with General Dallaire uncovers the “genocide fax.” While Dallaire was stationed in Rwanda, he sent a fax to the US warning them about large massacres and hinting to a possible genocide, “I was warning that there would be significant killings and massacres that would destabilize the whole political process,” (Dallaire). Also, article 37 says that if after a situation is assessed, and the UN sees the situation as dangerous, then the issue is given to the Security Council which has military power. Under article 41, the UN has the power to appoint sanctions. If sanctions do not work, then according to article 42 and 43 the UN may use force. Article 44 and 48 state if the UN decides to use force, then nations, or nations asked by the UN, are obliged to send armed forces to aid the UN.
purposely failed attempts at the rwandan genocide
The UN however did not completely abandon Rwanda in 1994. There were economic sanctions placed on Rwanda. They restricted visa issuing, and shipping or aircraft transport of goods, (UNRC). However, not all nations followed the economic sanctions. France supplied the Hutus with weapons and even trained some of the militia. One incident, there was a shipment of guns on an aircraft that was confiscated by UNAMIR. However, the French government argued that it was legal and the UN was forced to give up the shipment. Another incident was Mil-Tec Corporation Ltd, from the UK, sent arms worth $6.5 million, (Vinogradov, wikipedia).
The UN also sent peace keeping forces. A small peace keeping force was sent to Rwanda by Canada. The leader of the forces then was General Romeo Dallaire. When ten UN peace keepers were captured and killed, Dallaire asked for reinforcement. During that time the US attempted to remove its forces and convinced Belgium to do so as well. However to be able to do so, the US and Belgium must go through the Security Council. After the meeting was called to order, the UN Security Council voted unanimously to reduce the force to a token number. However, European troops did arrive, but only to evacuate western refugee. The UN tried to assemble more peace keeping forces from African nations. By then, approximately a million people were killed, (ushmm, Ferroggiaro, Power).
Genocide warnigs, covering it up
Prior to the genocide, warnings were sent to many places in the western world. However, debates over whether this was really genocide or not took place instead of immediate action. When the world could have reduced the number of dead or even stopped this genocide from occurring, they chose to argue over the simplicity of the actual definition. On June 10th, 1994 at a state department briefing, spokesperson Christine Shelley was asked by a reporter “What's the difference between "acts of genocide" and "genocide?"(Frontline).
Shelley replied by saying, “As you know, there is a legal definition of this. There has been a lot of discussion about how the definition applies under the definition of "genocide" contained in the 1948 convention. If you're looking at that for your determination about genocide, clearly, not all of the killings that have taken place in Rwanda are killings to which you might apply that label,” (Frontline).
US officials were also cautioned from using the word genocide. In the same state briefing Shelley was asked, “Is it true that you have specific guidance not to use the word ‘genocide’ in isolation but always to preface it with these words ‘acts of?’” (Frontline), to which she replied “: I have guidance which I try to use as best as I can.” Governments fearing that if the massacres going on in Rwanda were defined as genocide, they would be compelled to act. Therefore, governments chose to use “acts of genocide” rather than genocide. Now the question on everyone’s minds pops in “How many acts of genocide does it take to make genocide?”(Frontline).
Shelley replied by saying, “As you know, there is a legal definition of this. There has been a lot of discussion about how the definition applies under the definition of "genocide" contained in the 1948 convention. If you're looking at that for your determination about genocide, clearly, not all of the killings that have taken place in Rwanda are killings to which you might apply that label,” (Frontline).
US officials were also cautioned from using the word genocide. In the same state briefing Shelley was asked, “Is it true that you have specific guidance not to use the word ‘genocide’ in isolation but always to preface it with these words ‘acts of?’” (Frontline), to which she replied “: I have guidance which I try to use as best as I can.” Governments fearing that if the massacres going on in Rwanda were defined as genocide, they would be compelled to act. Therefore, governments chose to use “acts of genocide” rather than genocide. Now the question on everyone’s minds pops in “How many acts of genocide does it take to make genocide?”(Frontline).
The UN and th charter
The UN is commonly confused as an international government, but that idea is far from its true standing. The UN is not a world government but rather an international organization with limited power and each nation has state sovereignty. National or state sovereignty means that the states government has total control without the intervention of other states or the international organizations,(dictionary). While adopting the UN charter, two major values were integrated, respect for state sovereignty and respect for human rights. While Human rights and national sovereignty co-exist, they create a dilemma, (Popovski). Although nations try to implement the human rights laws and abide by the UN charter (which allows the UN to intervene), most nations do not like giving up their national sovereignty.
UN Core values vs Rwnda genocide
In the Rwandan genocide many international laws were broken; and most of the human rights laws were broken. In the Rwandan genocide, the UN did not act upon their core values. Because of the respect of national sovereignty, a million lives were lost. In the Rwandan genocide, the UN did not intervene. To fully understand the lack of the world and the UN’s reaction to the genocide, one must first examine the UN’s beliefs and core values. The UN implements international law. It attempts to maintain peace and works as an organization where nations come together and discuss in peace. The UN aims to protect human rights as well. In the UN’s preamble, it states:
“we the peoples of the United Nations determined
to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small, and
to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained.”
In the Universal Declaration of Human Rights it states: “Whereas Member States have pledged themselves to achieve, in co-operation with the United Nations, the promotion of universal respect for and observance of human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
By neglecting to maintain either peace around the world or neglecting to preserve the human rights laws, the UN is going against everything it stands for, making it completely ineffective. When a rule is broken, especially one of human life, action must be taken.
“we the peoples of the United Nations determined
to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small, and
to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained.”
In the Universal Declaration of Human Rights it states: “Whereas Member States have pledged themselves to achieve, in co-operation with the United Nations, the promotion of universal respect for and observance of human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
By neglecting to maintain either peace around the world or neglecting to preserve the human rights laws, the UN is going against everything it stands for, making it completely ineffective. When a rule is broken, especially one of human life, action must be taken.
what is genocide
Genocide is defined in the dictionary as the deliberate and systematic extermination of a national, racial, political, or cultural group, (Dictionary). The UN defines it as any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group, as such: killing members of the group; causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group; deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life, calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part; imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group; and forcibly transferring children of the group to another group,( UN).
Imagine in Rwanda
When you walk down your street, you are greeted joyfully by your neighbours. You feel secure knowing your children are on their way to school. You are comforted knowing that your country’s security force is keeping the streets as safe as possible. You live in a little bubble where work is great, your children are safe and healthy, and you can walk down the street without worrying about being hurt. You take this life for granted. Imagine if you walked down the streets on your way to work, and they were flooded with blood. Imagine if every time a group of people gathered around one area, they weren’t greeting each other, but rather killing innocent people with machetes; killing women and children, killing their neighbours, or colleagues. Imagine coming home from work and finding your entire neighbourhood in flames. Imagine one day coming home, and finding your families dead bloody bodies on the floor. Now imagine that the world knew about it, and they watched in silence. In Rwanda, 1994, there was a genocide. In 100 days, 800,000 people were killed. They were macheted to death, shot, burned, or killed in another gruesome way. How could people watch this and do nothing? Why didn’t the UN intervene?
January 12, 2007
The Admiral: Zheng He
Tamerlane died January 1404. By then his armies had already destroyed cities from Moscow to Delhi, destroyed principle centers of Islamic heartlands, the Ottoman sultan had been defeated and Egypt given a humiliating peace. Only China was left. The destruction of many cities in the east-west trade routes and the slaughtering of their populations was a terrible blow for the economy. Tamerlane’s death caused people to search for trade routes. The Yongle emperor of the Ming dynasty assembled a great army and set them out for an expedition of the Indian Ocean. There were seven expeditions in total. Ma Ho, Chinese version for Muhammad, was the son of a Chinese Muslim who had been on pilgrimage to Makah. Ma Ho was later called Zheng He, and was appointed admiral of the Chinese fleets going on the expedition.
The first three expeditions were the Ming simply trying to display their power throughout Asia and the Arabian regions. On the fourth expedition, Zheng He was accompanied by Ma Huan, a Muslim Chinese who learned Arabic and a little bit of Persian. He acted as a translator and eventually wrote a book about the countries he visited. His book had 22 chapters, each about a different country. His books were filled with great details and explained the appearances of the people, the trade, the region, the customs, and many other details.
Ma Huan compared the women’s clothing in some of the countries to the Chinese goddess of mercy. He talked about food, such as: Persian dates, almonds, dried grapes, peaches, apricots. He talked about pastries which were absent in the Chinese cuisine, he couldn’t describe it except say that “many of the people make up a mixture of milk, cream, butter, sugar, and honey to eat.” He wrote about the king and people’s loyalty to Islam, and the way Islam was practiced and how it flourished. He said “their customs are pure and honest.” Ma Huan was also surprised at the trade cities saying “foreign ships from everyplace, foreign merchants travelling by land all come to this country to attend the market and trade; hence the people of this country are all rich.” When the Chinese ships came to depart, the ruler of Yemen gave them gifts to present to the king. The Chinese interpreted this as tribute. One Yemeni writer said, “The Chinese seem to think that everyone is their subject, showing complete ignorance of political reality.” The Ming expeditions established a long lasting trade relationship, and would have been dominant and almost have a trade monopoly t
The first three expeditions were the Ming simply trying to display their power throughout Asia and the Arabian regions. On the fourth expedition, Zheng He was accompanied by Ma Huan, a Muslim Chinese who learned Arabic and a little bit of Persian. He acted as a translator and eventually wrote a book about the countries he visited. His book had 22 chapters, each about a different country. His books were filled with great details and explained the appearances of the people, the trade, the region, the customs, and many other details.
Ma Huan compared the women’s clothing in some of the countries to the Chinese goddess of mercy. He talked about food, such as: Persian dates, almonds, dried grapes, peaches, apricots. He talked about pastries which were absent in the Chinese cuisine, he couldn’t describe it except say that “many of the people make up a mixture of milk, cream, butter, sugar, and honey to eat.” He wrote about the king and people’s loyalty to Islam, and the way Islam was practiced and how it flourished. He said “their customs are pure and honest.” Ma Huan was also surprised at the trade cities saying “foreign ships from everyplace, foreign merchants travelling by land all come to this country to attend the market and trade; hence the people of this country are all rich.” When the Chinese ships came to depart, the ruler of Yemen gave them gifts to present to the king. The Chinese interpreted this as tribute. One Yemeni writer said, “The Chinese seem to think that everyone is their subject, showing complete ignorance of political reality.” The Ming expeditions established a long lasting trade relationship, and would have been dominant and almost have a trade monopoly t
Change over time: Roman Empire
During the classical period Rome underwent many changes both politically and culturally. Political changes were major. The capital changed, the empire was divided, and a series of invaders attacked. The cultural changes included religious views, craftsmanship, and education; religious views such as the introduction to Christianity, going from prosecuting Christians to making it an official religion. Craftsmanship was changed as trade routes were opened and nations went through cultural diffusion. Education was also a major change, as there was a language change. However, the value of education remained the same.
A major change in religion between 100 CE and 300 CE was the spread of Christianity. Christianity reached and spread through the Roman Empire, attracting many converts, which established many Christian communities. Also, later on, Christianity was a continuation during the massive cultural change during the collapse of the Roman Empire. After the division of the Empire, Constantine, eastern half, made Christianity a legitimate religion, followed by another Emperor making it the official religion. Before the split of Rome, Christians were being prosecuted. Another change in religion is how Christianity was modified and integrated with Platonic thought. This is both a continuation and a change. The continuation is that Platonic thought was present before Christianity spread. Another cultural change is trade. The Roman Empire was especially popular for its glassware, gold, and silver. However, with the opening of the silk roads, silk was introduced to Byzantine, later becoming a major industry. That is not to say however, that the roman crafts were destroyed, in fact, roman glassware, silver, and gold were prominent in trade. A third cultural change is the value and system of education. Education continued to have high value in the Roman Empire. However, the official language went from Latin to Greek as the Byzantines began examining and emphasising the importance of Greek traditions.
Between 100 CE and 600 CE there were many major political changes. One change was that the trade routes that linked the Roman Empire to Asia, Africa, and china were opened up. However, due to the exposure to many different areas and regions, and due to the easy access between regions, epidemic diseases spread. The bubonic plague, small pox, and other diseases killed almost one fourth of the population. This led to economic downfall, weakening the Roman Empire. Other changes were internal conflicts. Series of generals seizing the throne and too many emperors began weakening the Roman Empire. Another major change was the split of the Roman Empire. Diocletian divided the empire into two parts, east and west. West suffered from Germanic invasions, which Roman officials tried to keep out. This is a change because the Roman Empire was known for its toleration. However, during its collapse, the Roman officials tried to keep the nomadic tribes out of Rome. The Huns attacked Europe, and the west Roman Empire fell. Constantine built Constantinople, and the center of the Roman Empire moved to the east, another change. This empire had a strong centralized government. Another change was when Justinian and Theodora, roman emperor and empress, codified the Roman law. Finally, with the emergence of the Islamic empire, The Byzantine (roman) empire was weakened and many parts of it conquered.
Political and cultural changes took place in the Roman Empire during the classical period, this lead to the collapsing of the empire as well as the flourishing of it. While the Western Roman Empire fell, the eastern empire flourished.
A major change in religion between 100 CE and 300 CE was the spread of Christianity. Christianity reached and spread through the Roman Empire, attracting many converts, which established many Christian communities. Also, later on, Christianity was a continuation during the massive cultural change during the collapse of the Roman Empire. After the division of the Empire, Constantine, eastern half, made Christianity a legitimate religion, followed by another Emperor making it the official religion. Before the split of Rome, Christians were being prosecuted. Another change in religion is how Christianity was modified and integrated with Platonic thought. This is both a continuation and a change. The continuation is that Platonic thought was present before Christianity spread. Another cultural change is trade. The Roman Empire was especially popular for its glassware, gold, and silver. However, with the opening of the silk roads, silk was introduced to Byzantine, later becoming a major industry. That is not to say however, that the roman crafts were destroyed, in fact, roman glassware, silver, and gold were prominent in trade. A third cultural change is the value and system of education. Education continued to have high value in the Roman Empire. However, the official language went from Latin to Greek as the Byzantines began examining and emphasising the importance of Greek traditions.
Between 100 CE and 600 CE there were many major political changes. One change was that the trade routes that linked the Roman Empire to Asia, Africa, and china were opened up. However, due to the exposure to many different areas and regions, and due to the easy access between regions, epidemic diseases spread. The bubonic plague, small pox, and other diseases killed almost one fourth of the population. This led to economic downfall, weakening the Roman Empire. Other changes were internal conflicts. Series of generals seizing the throne and too many emperors began weakening the Roman Empire. Another major change was the split of the Roman Empire. Diocletian divided the empire into two parts, east and west. West suffered from Germanic invasions, which Roman officials tried to keep out. This is a change because the Roman Empire was known for its toleration. However, during its collapse, the Roman officials tried to keep the nomadic tribes out of Rome. The Huns attacked Europe, and the west Roman Empire fell. Constantine built Constantinople, and the center of the Roman Empire moved to the east, another change. This empire had a strong centralized government. Another change was when Justinian and Theodora, roman emperor and empress, codified the Roman law. Finally, with the emergence of the Islamic empire, The Byzantine (roman) empire was weakened and many parts of it conquered.
Political and cultural changes took place in the Roman Empire during the classical period, this lead to the collapsing of the empire as well as the flourishing of it. While the Western Roman Empire fell, the eastern empire flourished.
Lssons to be learned from Radio
Coach Jones plays an important role in this movie. Through Coach Jones we see the transformation of a workaholic, to a certain extent, into a caring and loving father, friend, and husband. Coach Jones did the thing that everyone would like to do, but don’t have the courage to do, the right thing. As Linda, his wife said “its never a mistake to care for someone.” Coach Jones did the right thing by taking care of Radio and protecting him, he also showed us that being obsessed with your work or a game makes you forget about your family. In the movie, Coach Jones was so wrapped up in his game, he neglected his family. We can use what Coach Jones stood for and apply it in our life. We need to remember that sometimes we get so wrapped up in winning or succeeding we forget why we are doing it, and until a sign comes a long, we keep forgetting.
Radio symbolized fear, tormenting, disability, and not being able to function in normal society. Radio also symbolizes love, caring, and the simper things in life. Before Radio walked into Coach Jones’ life, Coach Jones neglected his family. Radio brought courage, inspiration, and love to the community of Hanna High. The football and basketball players began to realize the value of the game, and not just the outcome. Radio helped people learn to care and love, not just football, but one another. Radio’s lessons should be applied to real life. This touching story teaches us to remember the simple things, remember why we love the game, and the value of family.
Johnny Clay had the ‘pressured’ athlete that’s cliché in almost every movie. Johnny Clay is an athlete with a very promising future. His father pressures him into getting rid of everything in his way. Johnny, very pressured, feels that Radio was getting the attention that should be going to Johnny. Johnny shows us the ongoing battle of a father-son relationship, battle between standing up for what you believe in, and doing the right thing. Johnny helps us realize several lessons from this movie. Many people are pressured by their parents to always do better, and this leads many kids into behaving like bullies. Johnny shows us what we should be doing in our lives, standing up for what we believe in and not give in to these pressures, instead do the right thing.
The principle has a unique role in this story. The principle is the authority that enforces the rules. The rules of the school did not allow Radio to help the football team and attend some classes. However, the principle did something that other principles should follow, she broke the rules because what’s right, isn’t necessarily what’s good. The principle felt that no harm could be done by allowing radio in, only gain. The principle did the right thing, despite the pressure by higher forces. I believe that if we take what she has done and apply it to real life, we would not do things just because we should, but we’ll stand up to people, even in higher up places, to do what’s right.
Radio symbolized fear, tormenting, disability, and not being able to function in normal society. Radio also symbolizes love, caring, and the simper things in life. Before Radio walked into Coach Jones’ life, Coach Jones neglected his family. Radio brought courage, inspiration, and love to the community of Hanna High. The football and basketball players began to realize the value of the game, and not just the outcome. Radio helped people learn to care and love, not just football, but one another. Radio’s lessons should be applied to real life. This touching story teaches us to remember the simple things, remember why we love the game, and the value of family.
Johnny Clay had the ‘pressured’ athlete that’s cliché in almost every movie. Johnny Clay is an athlete with a very promising future. His father pressures him into getting rid of everything in his way. Johnny, very pressured, feels that Radio was getting the attention that should be going to Johnny. Johnny shows us the ongoing battle of a father-son relationship, battle between standing up for what you believe in, and doing the right thing. Johnny helps us realize several lessons from this movie. Many people are pressured by their parents to always do better, and this leads many kids into behaving like bullies. Johnny shows us what we should be doing in our lives, standing up for what we believe in and not give in to these pressures, instead do the right thing.
The principle has a unique role in this story. The principle is the authority that enforces the rules. The rules of the school did not allow Radio to help the football team and attend some classes. However, the principle did something that other principles should follow, she broke the rules because what’s right, isn’t necessarily what’s good. The principle felt that no harm could be done by allowing radio in, only gain. The principle did the right thing, despite the pressure by higher forces. I believe that if we take what she has done and apply it to real life, we would not do things just because we should, but we’ll stand up to people, even in higher up places, to do what’s right.
Code of conduct for African security and armed forces
Throughout Africa there have been a series of mass rapes and murders, ‘genocides’ and several violations of the international Human Rights Laws. The adoption of a continent wide code of conduct for African armed and security forces is a result from these violations. The Human Rights Laws preamble states:
‘Whereas disregard and contempt for human rights have resulted in barbarous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind, and the advent of a world in which human beings shall enjoy freedom of speech and belief and freedom from fear and want has been proclaimed as the highest aspiration of the common people,’ (UN).
The UN preamble states:
‘To reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small, and
to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained, and
to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom,’ (UN).
The UN is obligated to attempt to stop these genocides and mass rape and murders going on in the African continent because of its preamble and its mission statement.
To adopt a continent wide code of conduct for African armed and security forces is extremely difficult however. The majority of the African continent is not under the control of government forces but instead of local militia with no obligations to the UN. Further more any resolutions on this issue will apply only to the segments of Africa under government control. However, although the militia are not called government forces, they are heavily supported and funded by the governments, making the need to disarm the militias in order to attain peace in Africa necessary.
These rebel militias are supported by neighbouring countries which since they want to see the instable governments fall. More over the adoption of an Africa wide code directed to the governments will not stop rebel militias from attaining weapons and using them in war. Militias draw their main income from blood diamonds and other illegal means as well as from the governments.
In 1986, The United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Africa (UNREC) was established. This was a result from the General Assembly’s resolution 40/151G. Through this resolution the UN’s general assembly gave the UNREC responsibility to coordinate the implementations of regional activities in Africa. The UNREC also acts with the AU (African Union), (UNREC).
At least 40,000 people have been displaced in Liberia due to the latest fighting between government troops and rebels in central Bong County. The Security Council decided unanimously this week to extend sanctions on the Liberian government for 12 months, with demands to stop support for the Revolutionary front (RUF) and other armed groups in the region, (IRIN).
9,000 Senegalese flee the Casaance fighting in Senegal and go into Gambia. Over 500 arrived in the space of two days with hundreds more crossing the border on Thursday. The fighting between Senegalese army and the rebels intensified in the past week, (IRIN).
In Ghana, government officials said in a press conference that they [the government] were determined to build a ‘‘new Ghana’’ and that they hoped this would reconcile the nation for the mistakes of the past. The commission that will be set up is expected to operate for about a year. Its initial job is to investigate abuses during the five military regimes which ruled Ghana for a total of 22 years, (IRIN).
A deeply concerning issue that are found in the Central Africa Republic (CAR) and have risen in the past months is the security situation. Members of the security and armed forces along with armed gangs outside government control have attacked dozens of unarmed citizen while thousands have fled their homes into neighbouring countries, (IRIN).
Several resolution have been passed in attempt to facilitate some of the security and armed forces in Africa, two of which are Sudan and the democratic republic of the Congo (DRC) Security Council Resolution 1706 was recently passed to condemn the actions of the Darfur ‘genocide’ is Sudan, resolution 1711 was also passed recently condemning the DRC for the illicit flow of weapons within and into the nation, (UN).
St Lucia strongly believes that any sort of human killing is inhuman and against all morals. St Lucia, although is unaffected by this issue, wishes to work with African nations and other nations around the world to try and bring peace and justice to these areas in Africa which have seen, several times in their lifetime, genocides and mass murders. St Lucia takes it into consideration that these ‘murders’ are mostly from rebel groups and gangs, outside the government control. However, St Lucia feels that if regulation on weapons are enforced, and a code of conduct for the armed forces are presented, then the situation would most likely decrease greatly if not entirely.
It is essential that in order for an adoption of a code of conduct to be successful, the UN must seek to create alliances with the local rebel militias and work closely with the African Union (AU) and the UNREC. Possible outcomes or actions that should be done previous the creation of a code of conduct are:
improve and promote an improved civil-military relation
promote ‘good’ doings
have the military aid the civilians one on one
have more ‘civil’ contact with the civilians
have local leaders speak with/to the military about their job and report to the people
extensive information campaigns to inform civilians and soldiers alike the role of the army
promote drafting in the army
educate the military
have public and local speakers talk about the army
To emphasis the importance of a democratic society, re-establishing relations based on respect and mutual confidence.
Educate people to understand democracy
Educate military
Educate security forces
Further actions should be taken in regards to outlawing local militia and strengthening the government militia
Imprisoning gangsters
Confiscating weapons
"BACKGROUND(civil military) ." UNREC. UNREC. 30 Nov 2006.
"Central African Republic: Government soldiers and armed groups attacking unarmed civilians and critics." amnesty. 7 Feb 2006. amnesty. 22 Nov 2006.
"Charter of the United Nations." UN. UN. 1 Dec 2006.
"IRIN-WA Weekly Roundup 123 covering the period 04 - 10 May 2002." Relief Web. 10 May 2002. Relief Web. 27 Nov 2006.
Rocky, Dr William. "African armed forces and the challenges of security sector transformation." looksmart. november 2001. HighBeam. 28 Nov 2006
.
"Security council renews mandate of peacebuilding office in central africa." nieuwsbank. 23-11-2006 . nieuwsbank. 1 Dec 2006.
"SECURITY COUNCIL RENEWS MANDATE OF PEACEBUILDING OFFICE IN CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC UNTIL 31 DECEMBER 2007." UN . 22 Nov 2006. UN. 1 Dec 2006.
"Universal decleration of human rights." UN. UN. 1 Dec 2006.
‘Whereas disregard and contempt for human rights have resulted in barbarous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind, and the advent of a world in which human beings shall enjoy freedom of speech and belief and freedom from fear and want has been proclaimed as the highest aspiration of the common people,’ (UN).
The UN preamble states:
‘To reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small, and
to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained, and
to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom,’ (UN).
The UN is obligated to attempt to stop these genocides and mass rape and murders going on in the African continent because of its preamble and its mission statement.
To adopt a continent wide code of conduct for African armed and security forces is extremely difficult however. The majority of the African continent is not under the control of government forces but instead of local militia with no obligations to the UN. Further more any resolutions on this issue will apply only to the segments of Africa under government control. However, although the militia are not called government forces, they are heavily supported and funded by the governments, making the need to disarm the militias in order to attain peace in Africa necessary.
These rebel militias are supported by neighbouring countries which since they want to see the instable governments fall. More over the adoption of an Africa wide code directed to the governments will not stop rebel militias from attaining weapons and using them in war. Militias draw their main income from blood diamonds and other illegal means as well as from the governments.
In 1986, The United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Africa (UNREC) was established. This was a result from the General Assembly’s resolution 40/151G. Through this resolution the UN’s general assembly gave the UNREC responsibility to coordinate the implementations of regional activities in Africa. The UNREC also acts with the AU (African Union), (UNREC).
At least 40,000 people have been displaced in Liberia due to the latest fighting between government troops and rebels in central Bong County. The Security Council decided unanimously this week to extend sanctions on the Liberian government for 12 months, with demands to stop support for the Revolutionary front (RUF) and other armed groups in the region, (IRIN).
9,000 Senegalese flee the Casaance fighting in Senegal and go into Gambia. Over 500 arrived in the space of two days with hundreds more crossing the border on Thursday. The fighting between Senegalese army and the rebels intensified in the past week, (IRIN).
In Ghana, government officials said in a press conference that they [the government] were determined to build a ‘‘new Ghana’’ and that they hoped this would reconcile the nation for the mistakes of the past. The commission that will be set up is expected to operate for about a year. Its initial job is to investigate abuses during the five military regimes which ruled Ghana for a total of 22 years, (IRIN).
A deeply concerning issue that are found in the Central Africa Republic (CAR) and have risen in the past months is the security situation. Members of the security and armed forces along with armed gangs outside government control have attacked dozens of unarmed citizen while thousands have fled their homes into neighbouring countries, (IRIN).
Several resolution have been passed in attempt to facilitate some of the security and armed forces in Africa, two of which are Sudan and the democratic republic of the Congo (DRC) Security Council Resolution 1706 was recently passed to condemn the actions of the Darfur ‘genocide’ is Sudan, resolution 1711 was also passed recently condemning the DRC for the illicit flow of weapons within and into the nation, (UN).
St Lucia strongly believes that any sort of human killing is inhuman and against all morals. St Lucia, although is unaffected by this issue, wishes to work with African nations and other nations around the world to try and bring peace and justice to these areas in Africa which have seen, several times in their lifetime, genocides and mass murders. St Lucia takes it into consideration that these ‘murders’ are mostly from rebel groups and gangs, outside the government control. However, St Lucia feels that if regulation on weapons are enforced, and a code of conduct for the armed forces are presented, then the situation would most likely decrease greatly if not entirely.
It is essential that in order for an adoption of a code of conduct to be successful, the UN must seek to create alliances with the local rebel militias and work closely with the African Union (AU) and the UNREC. Possible outcomes or actions that should be done previous the creation of a code of conduct are:
improve and promote an improved civil-military relation
promote ‘good’ doings
have the military aid the civilians one on one
have more ‘civil’ contact with the civilians
have local leaders speak with/to the military about their job and report to the people
extensive information campaigns to inform civilians and soldiers alike the role of the army
promote drafting in the army
educate the military
have public and local speakers talk about the army
To emphasis the importance of a democratic society, re-establishing relations based on respect and mutual confidence.
Educate people to understand democracy
Educate military
Educate security forces
Further actions should be taken in regards to outlawing local militia and strengthening the government militia
Imprisoning gangsters
Confiscating weapons
"BACKGROUND(civil military) ." UNREC. UNREC. 30 Nov 2006
"Central African Republic: Government soldiers and armed groups attacking unarmed civilians and critics." amnesty. 7 Feb 2006. amnesty. 22 Nov 2006
"Charter of the United Nations." UN. UN. 1 Dec 2006
"IRIN-WA Weekly Roundup 123 covering the period 04 - 10 May 2002." Relief Web. 10 May 2002. Relief Web. 27 Nov 2006
Rocky, Dr William. "African armed forces and the challenges of security sector transformation." looksmart. november 2001. HighBeam. 28 Nov 2006
"Security council renews mandate of peacebuilding office in central africa." nieuwsbank. 23-11-2006 . nieuwsbank. 1 Dec 2006
"SECURITY COUNCIL RENEWS MANDATE OF PEACEBUILDING OFFICE IN CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC UNTIL 31 DECEMBER 2007." UN . 22 Nov 2006. UN. 1 Dec 2006
"Universal decleration of human rights." UN. UN. 1 Dec 2006
Ancient Egypt and Ancient Mesopotamia climate affect governments
Geography and climate had an influence on the formation of government in ancient Egypt and ancient Mesopotamia. Both civilizations have similarities and differences. The rivers were fundamental in both areas. In Egypt there was the Nile, it was calm and predictable which resulted in a calm and gentle ruling system, where in Mesopotamia, the Tigris and Euphrates were harsh, resulting in a harsh and strict government. Also, the bordering seas played a major role in both civilizations when it came to trading; the red sea in Egypt and the Persian gulf in Mesopotamia.
In ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia there were the Nile, Tigris, and Euphrates. All three rivers were large and provided fertile land for agriculture. Both civilizations bordered seas, which proved for great trading routes. However, Egypt was flat and desert, (it was isolated from other civilizations.) Mesopotamia was hilly and a large fertile area, (it was not isolated). Both are in the same latitude, thus having fairly similar climates. However similar or different the geography and climate was in both areas, it worked differently in each.
The two civilizations were remarkably different, however there were several similarities. For one, they were both monarchies, headed by a king/pharaoh. They were also in the same latitude resulting in similar climates; the land in both regions was extremely fertile and the climate ideal, therefore they had similar crops such as wheat and barley. Because they were able to produce mass crops, they could then feed large amounts of labourers, allowing the king/pharaoh to have labourers to build the great structures both civilizations were able to make. In ancient Egypt there were large pyramids and temples, while in Mesopotamia there were ziggurats and the hanging gardens of Babylon.
As great as the similarities were, the differences were even greater. Both civilizations had great rivers. However, in Egypt, the Nile was much calmer, gentler, and more predictable. This resulted in a high standard of living and an easier life in Egypt. In Mesopotamia on the other hand, had a very harsh and unpredictable river, which resulted in a harsher society and harsher government. In Egypt the land was flat, and the fertile land was around the Nile, the rest of Egypt was desert making it impossible for nomadic tribes to survive out there in large numbers, (which caused no threat to Egypt). Also, the Nile flowed North, while the Red Sea’s winds blew south, enabling easy transportation and communication. This enabled the Pharaoh to easily watch over his lands and was easily notified if there were any foreign invasions. Menes, a pharaoh, united lower and southern Egypt, creating a large and unified Egypt. Mesopotamia however, was hilly, and fertile all around, firstly causing it to be almost impossible to unite and many nomadic tribes lived around in different areas. Thus, Mesopotamia was not unified; however it was divided into many small city-states, which were always invading each other. Due that Egypt had long reigns of stability and life was easier, Gods were more appreciated and worshipped, their laws (the Egyptians) were based on a man to god, while the Mesopotamians harsh life led their laws to be strict and harsh. Hammurabi’s Laws are ‘an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.’ In Mesopotamia, gods were considered harsh and cruel, and people were expected to be efficient as there was no room for errors. In Egypt the king/pharaoh was considered a god who brought all this wealth to Egypt, while in Mesopotamia; the kings were humans with no ‘super powers.’
The Nile, Tigris, Euphrates, red sea, similar latitudes, desert, or even hills are all things that ancient Egypt and ancient Mesopotamia have. However, each had their own influences on each region. This caused a surprising large difference between the two relatively close civilizations. Both climate and geography influenced the government of both ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia in more ways than one, however not entirely the same way.
In ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia there were the Nile, Tigris, and Euphrates. All three rivers were large and provided fertile land for agriculture. Both civilizations bordered seas, which proved for great trading routes. However, Egypt was flat and desert, (it was isolated from other civilizations.) Mesopotamia was hilly and a large fertile area, (it was not isolated). Both are in the same latitude, thus having fairly similar climates. However similar or different the geography and climate was in both areas, it worked differently in each.
The two civilizations were remarkably different, however there were several similarities. For one, they were both monarchies, headed by a king/pharaoh. They were also in the same latitude resulting in similar climates; the land in both regions was extremely fertile and the climate ideal, therefore they had similar crops such as wheat and barley. Because they were able to produce mass crops, they could then feed large amounts of labourers, allowing the king/pharaoh to have labourers to build the great structures both civilizations were able to make. In ancient Egypt there were large pyramids and temples, while in Mesopotamia there were ziggurats and the hanging gardens of Babylon.
As great as the similarities were, the differences were even greater. Both civilizations had great rivers. However, in Egypt, the Nile was much calmer, gentler, and more predictable. This resulted in a high standard of living and an easier life in Egypt. In Mesopotamia on the other hand, had a very harsh and unpredictable river, which resulted in a harsher society and harsher government. In Egypt the land was flat, and the fertile land was around the Nile, the rest of Egypt was desert making it impossible for nomadic tribes to survive out there in large numbers, (which caused no threat to Egypt). Also, the Nile flowed North, while the Red Sea’s winds blew south, enabling easy transportation and communication. This enabled the Pharaoh to easily watch over his lands and was easily notified if there were any foreign invasions. Menes, a pharaoh, united lower and southern Egypt, creating a large and unified Egypt. Mesopotamia however, was hilly, and fertile all around, firstly causing it to be almost impossible to unite and many nomadic tribes lived around in different areas. Thus, Mesopotamia was not unified; however it was divided into many small city-states, which were always invading each other. Due that Egypt had long reigns of stability and life was easier, Gods were more appreciated and worshipped, their laws (the Egyptians) were based on a man to god, while the Mesopotamians harsh life led their laws to be strict and harsh. Hammurabi’s Laws are ‘an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.’ In Mesopotamia, gods were considered harsh and cruel, and people were expected to be efficient as there was no room for errors. In Egypt the king/pharaoh was considered a god who brought all this wealth to Egypt, while in Mesopotamia; the kings were humans with no ‘super powers.’
The Nile, Tigris, Euphrates, red sea, similar latitudes, desert, or even hills are all things that ancient Egypt and ancient Mesopotamia have. However, each had their own influences on each region. This caused a surprising large difference between the two relatively close civilizations. Both climate and geography influenced the government of both ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia in more ways than one, however not entirely the same way.
middle ages european expansion
In the High Middle Ages Europe began to interact with increasing regularity with the other regions of the eastern hemisphere. Its days of relative isolation were over. Europe was greatly influenced by economic expansion during the high middle ages due to the growth of the agricultural economy and increased trade. Long distance trading was also an essential element causing economic growth.
The economic expansion that suddenly faced Europe was partially due to the agricultural growth. Due to population pressure, serfs and monks began to clear forests and swamps. The lords encouraged these efforts and taxed higher. Because new arable land was available, agricultural techniques improved. Putting together the idea of crop rotation and cultivation of beans to enrich the land, the fields could be used faster and more efficiently producing a surplus of crops. Books on agricultural methods also helped people cultivate their land. Due to the trading that was going on, new domestic animals were brought in, new crops were brought, and new agricultural ideas were traded. Before 1000 CE, the average European diet consisted mostly of grains, however after trade opened up, new foods were introduced leading to over a doubling of the population.
The crusades were a series of wars against the Muslims. However, the crusades also opened up trade with the Muslims. Crusaders established some states in the Arabian and Iberian peninsulas. This encouraged trade with Muslims, who at the time already had a trade system with Asia. Trading with Muslims allowed ideas to filter into Europe along with luxury goods. The Hanseatic League, an association of trading cities, helped Europe trade with other Mediterranean regions. Textile production was especially successful in trading, especially in Italy and Flanders. Trading also improved business techniques, bankers issued letters of credit to merchants; there were commercial partnerships for limiting risk of commercial investments, and many other techniques. This made it easier and safer for European merchants to trade, thus trading grew and prospered.
Long distance trading was a vital element in the growth of Europe. Throughout Europe was more or less the same. Same techniques were used and the same crops were available. When Europe began trading with the Arabian peninsula (with the Muslims), with Asia and with china, new ideas, techniques, food sources, and even domesticated animals were being diffused.
Europe arose from its dark ages and entered the middle ages. In the high middle ages, Europe’s economy grew, with renewed agricultural growth, population increase, re-urbanization, growing cities, and along with them, growing businesses. Trade helped open up this route of possibilities, while agricultural growth helped trade prosper. The growing economy of Europe allowed Europe to get involved in the areas of the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
The economic expansion that suddenly faced Europe was partially due to the agricultural growth. Due to population pressure, serfs and monks began to clear forests and swamps. The lords encouraged these efforts and taxed higher. Because new arable land was available, agricultural techniques improved. Putting together the idea of crop rotation and cultivation of beans to enrich the land, the fields could be used faster and more efficiently producing a surplus of crops. Books on agricultural methods also helped people cultivate their land. Due to the trading that was going on, new domestic animals were brought in, new crops were brought, and new agricultural ideas were traded. Before 1000 CE, the average European diet consisted mostly of grains, however after trade opened up, new foods were introduced leading to over a doubling of the population.
The crusades were a series of wars against the Muslims. However, the crusades also opened up trade with the Muslims. Crusaders established some states in the Arabian and Iberian peninsulas. This encouraged trade with Muslims, who at the time already had a trade system with Asia. Trading with Muslims allowed ideas to filter into Europe along with luxury goods. The Hanseatic League, an association of trading cities, helped Europe trade with other Mediterranean regions. Textile production was especially successful in trading, especially in Italy and Flanders. Trading also improved business techniques, bankers issued letters of credit to merchants; there were commercial partnerships for limiting risk of commercial investments, and many other techniques. This made it easier and safer for European merchants to trade, thus trading grew and prospered.
Long distance trading was a vital element in the growth of Europe. Throughout Europe was more or less the same. Same techniques were used and the same crops were available. When Europe began trading with the Arabian peninsula (with the Muslims), with Asia and with china, new ideas, techniques, food sources, and even domesticated animals were being diffused.
Europe arose from its dark ages and entered the middle ages. In the high middle ages, Europe’s economy grew, with renewed agricultural growth, population increase, re-urbanization, growing cities, and along with them, growing businesses. Trade helped open up this route of possibilities, while agricultural growth helped trade prosper. The growing economy of Europe allowed Europe to get involved in the areas of the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
ancien China and ancient Palestine religion vs philosophy
Ancient China and Palestine were geographically far apart. Despite their geographical differences, they shared similar beliefs. An example is, both civilizations base their laws on the basic concept of ethics. They even share the same concept of a gender hierchy, both having a patriarchal society. However, just as their distance divides them, so do other major ideas. It is difficult to compare China and Palestine solely their religious beliefs because China can be debated as not having a religion.
China and Palestine shared many similarities. A major similarity between both civilizations was the unique situation that these principles evolved in; both Palestine and China had times of unrest. In China, the height of its philosophy was during the warring states, when people tried to explain why this chaos occurred and what could be done to change it. In Palestine, they were also undergoing a serious time of unrest as there were many inter-Mesopotamian conflicts between the many city-states. Also, both civilizations had a gender hierarchy, where the citizens were considered the free commoner men; both civilizations had slaves and prisoners of war. Considering that they were patriarchal society, it is understood why women were degraded; as women were not ‘needed’ in the society. Palestinian women began wearing veils, this was taken from the Persians through cultural diffusion. This was an act to show that women were subservient to men. In China, women later began binding their feetJ; although only the higher class women did it, the poorer women were needed in the field. However, these are minor similarities between both civilizations. The major similarities are their ethical principles. Both focused on the individual; the Chinese focused on the individuals actions with others while the Palestinians focused on the individuals actions as obedience to god. Both emphasised the importance of respect, especially to elders and to parents. Another minor similarity is the rule of god. Although the Chinese weren’t as religious, they still believed in the mandate of heaven. The mandate of heaven was believed to give permission to the ruler to rule by god. Palestinians also ruled by god.
While China and Palestine share similar ideas, they are also different. One difference is that China was a much larger state with a greater population, where Palestine was a smaller state with a small population. China was settled while Palestine was a nomadic society. This may have affected the way of thinking of the people more than we give credit for. The major difference in the religious thinking of both the Chinese and the Palestinians is the fact that the Chinese did not have a prominent religion. They practiced ancestor veneration, where Palestine was monotheistic, strongly religious, and they had many religious texts such as the Ten Commandments and the torah. In China everything revolved around the individual’s relationship with each other, and it was mainly a politically thinking society which believed that human relationships with one another were more important than laws. Where in Palestine, everything revolved around god’s will, and revolved around religious beliefs; here the laws were followed to the word. The Jews borrowed Hammurabi’s code and modified it. Hammurabi’s code is one of the strictest laws as they are based on the idea of an eye for an eye. In Palestine, when you did wrong, you were punished, when you did right, you were rewarded. In China on the other hand, there was no reward or punishment for they relied on virtue as the driving force for all good, and ignoring virtue led to evil. However, all this compiles and creates social classes. In Palestine, the social hierarchy was important, where in China it was discouraged [the hierarchy]. The irony however, is that in China, the social division was greatly distinct, where in Palestine it wasn’t as great.
There were many similarities and many differences between the philosophical and religious ideals of China and Palestine. The greatest is the mere fact that China did not have a religion and Palestine was all about its religion. However, that does not mean that the two civilizations are not similar. In fact, the same reason that makes them so different also makes them so similar. China may not have been religious, or Palestine philosophical, but the base of both (religion and philosophy) were based on the same ideas, those of a patriarchal society, women were degraded, and they were based on the individual’s relationships and ethics and morals. China and Palestine are a geographically far apart, however, their way of thinking is not as different as it might appear.
China and Palestine shared many similarities. A major similarity between both civilizations was the unique situation that these principles evolved in; both Palestine and China had times of unrest. In China, the height of its philosophy was during the warring states, when people tried to explain why this chaos occurred and what could be done to change it. In Palestine, they were also undergoing a serious time of unrest as there were many inter-Mesopotamian conflicts between the many city-states. Also, both civilizations had a gender hierarchy, where the citizens were considered the free commoner men; both civilizations had slaves and prisoners of war. Considering that they were patriarchal society, it is understood why women were degraded; as women were not ‘needed’ in the society. Palestinian women began wearing veils, this was taken from the Persians through cultural diffusion. This was an act to show that women were subservient to men. In China, women later began binding their feetJ; although only the higher class women did it, the poorer women were needed in the field. However, these are minor similarities between both civilizations. The major similarities are their ethical principles. Both focused on the individual; the Chinese focused on the individuals actions with others while the Palestinians focused on the individuals actions as obedience to god. Both emphasised the importance of respect, especially to elders and to parents. Another minor similarity is the rule of god. Although the Chinese weren’t as religious, they still believed in the mandate of heaven. The mandate of heaven was believed to give permission to the ruler to rule by god. Palestinians also ruled by god.
While China and Palestine share similar ideas, they are also different. One difference is that China was a much larger state with a greater population, where Palestine was a smaller state with a small population. China was settled while Palestine was a nomadic society. This may have affected the way of thinking of the people more than we give credit for. The major difference in the religious thinking of both the Chinese and the Palestinians is the fact that the Chinese did not have a prominent religion. They practiced ancestor veneration, where Palestine was monotheistic, strongly religious, and they had many religious texts such as the Ten Commandments and the torah. In China everything revolved around the individual’s relationship with each other, and it was mainly a politically thinking society which believed that human relationships with one another were more important than laws. Where in Palestine, everything revolved around god’s will, and revolved around religious beliefs; here the laws were followed to the word. The Jews borrowed Hammurabi’s code and modified it. Hammurabi’s code is one of the strictest laws as they are based on the idea of an eye for an eye. In Palestine, when you did wrong, you were punished, when you did right, you were rewarded. In China on the other hand, there was no reward or punishment for they relied on virtue as the driving force for all good, and ignoring virtue led to evil. However, all this compiles and creates social classes. In Palestine, the social hierarchy was important, where in China it was discouraged [the hierarchy]. The irony however, is that in China, the social division was greatly distinct, where in Palestine it wasn’t as great.
There were many similarities and many differences between the philosophical and religious ideals of China and Palestine. The greatest is the mere fact that China did not have a religion and Palestine was all about its religion. However, that does not mean that the two civilizations are not similar. In fact, the same reason that makes them so different also makes them so similar. China may not have been religious, or Palestine philosophical, but the base of both (religion and philosophy) were based on the same ideas, those of a patriarchal society, women were degraded, and they were based on the individual’s relationships and ethics and morals. China and Palestine are a geographically far apart, however, their way of thinking is not as different as it might appear.
malnutrition among children and young people in LEDCs
The lingering threat of malnutrition among children and young people in LEDCs is an issue that has been on the agenda for a while now, (CACMUN XXVIII Issues). Malnutrition can be defined as a medical condition resulting from a lack of vitamins, excessive loss of nutrients, and not enough calorie intakes. An extended period of malnutrition can result in starvation. Malnutrition can also be from overeating, excessive calorie intake, and indulging in ‘unhealthy,’ (malnutrition).
The World Health Organization estimates that one-third of the world is well-fed, one-third is under-fed one-third is starving, (the challenge). 146 million children are underweight in the developing world. South Asia has around 78 million, East Asia/pacific have about 22 million, and Africa has about 24 million. Malnutrition is not only an issue in the developing countries, but 4 million children are underweight in the developed countries, (the challenge).
Although this remains an issue, several steps have already been taken towards the prevention of malnutrition. There are many NGO’s and several committees in the UN dedicated to solving this issue. WFP is the food agency of the United Nations. In 2002, WFP fed 72 million people in 82 countries, (UNICEF). UNICIF is also a committee which dedicates its self for the protection of children’s rights and helps expand their opportunities, (UNICEF).
Bibliography
“Malnutrition” wikipedia <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malnutrition> 11 October, 2006
“The challenge” UNICEF http://www.childinfo.org/areas/malnutrition/ May 2006
“UNICEF” press centre http://www.unicef.org/media/media_13226.html
“CACMUN XXVIII Issues” <http://www.cacmun.net/issues/issues2006.htm>
Brain Drain prevention
A brain drain is an emigration of trained and talented individuals to other nations. Every year highly qualified professionals leave their home countries; usually lesser economically developed countries (LEDCs), to earn more money in more economically developed countries (MEDCs), (CACMUN XXVIII Issues). This harms the economy of LEDCs and makes it harder for the country to improve. A brain drain is also called human capital flight. It is most common in developing countries; especially in Eastern, Middle and Western Africa, Central America and the Caribbean.
Brain drain can occur either when individuals who study abroad and complete their education do not return to their home country, or when individuals educated in their home country emigrate for higher wages or better opportunities. When an individual studies in their own country then emigrates is arguable worse because it drains more resources from the home country.
Brain drain usually results from several factors; poor working conditions, limited career opportunity, limited educational opportunities and low pay and economic instability. An individual leaving the country and emigrating to another is usually because they are offered better working conditions, and career opportunities. Another factor as to why people leave their home nations is political instability. The endless coups and wars are a major reason for emigration.
Bibliography
“CACMUN XXVIII Issues” <http://www.cacmun.net/issues/issues2006.htm>
“Brain Drain” Wikipedia <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brain_drain> 9 October 2006
Mutume, Gumisai “reversing Africa’s brain drain” Africa Recovery http://www.un.org/ecosocdev/geninfo/afrec/vol17no2/172brain.htm July 2003
Darfur, Sudan
There has been an ongoing ethnic conflict in Sudan for the past two decades. However, only on July 2001, did the conflict arise to a greater level, eventually turning into a civil war.
This conflict in Sudan is extremely significant and important throughout the world because it is believed by many that it is another genocide. Majority of the media have announced it as genocide, and the US government described it that way as well. However, the UN has declined to agree with that term.
The last civil war was actually the second Sudanese civil war, and it was primarily Muslims and Christians in conflict. However this time the issue is much greater than just religious differences.
The Sudanese army is "bombing civilians in Darfur." This civil war is Government forces, pro-government militias and rebels, all in constant fighting. A WFP official reported that food aid has been cut off from at least 355,000 people in the region. There are two main groups involved, The Government of Sudan and the Janjaweed and the Non-Baggara people of the region, who are land tilling tribes. The Janjaweed recruited camel herding Arabs also known as Abbala, to join in the military group. The majority of the residents in Darfur are Muslims. Thus this issue is long confused as being characterized as a conflict between the Arab and African populations. Many scholars and historians tried to trace the history of this issue. Many believe that this civil war resulted from combination of environmental calamity, political opportunism and regional geopolitics.
Why didn’t the UN get involved?
The answer is quite simple. This is a perfect example of national sovereignty. The UN does not have any power over a nation. It can merely suggest.
The UN had passed a resolution, Resolution 1706 which aimed to aid Sudan by sending a new peacekeeping force of 20,000 to the region.
Sudan however, expressed strong opposition to the resolution, and asked the AU forces to leave the region adding “they have no right to transfer this assignment to the United Nations or any other party. This right rests with the government of Sudan."
The senior assistant to the President of the Republic, Minnawi, stated that he does not object to the new UN peacekeeping force. However, Sudanese president Al-Bashir claimed that it was a colonial plan and said that "we do not want Sudan to turn into another Iraq.”
Recently Sudan allowed UN peace keepers to enter and aid the country. Nevertheless, Sudan has rejected the expansion of the (UNMIS) to the troubled region. Presently the UN assists an African Union mission there.
This conflict in Sudan is extremely significant and important throughout the world because it is believed by many that it is another genocide. Majority of the media have announced it as genocide, and the US government described it that way as well. However, the UN has declined to agree with that term.
The last civil war was actually the second Sudanese civil war, and it was primarily Muslims and Christians in conflict. However this time the issue is much greater than just religious differences.
The Sudanese army is "bombing civilians in Darfur." This civil war is Government forces, pro-government militias and rebels, all in constant fighting. A WFP official reported that food aid has been cut off from at least 355,000 people in the region. There are two main groups involved, The Government of Sudan and the Janjaweed and the Non-Baggara people of the region, who are land tilling tribes. The Janjaweed recruited camel herding Arabs also known as Abbala, to join in the military group. The majority of the residents in Darfur are Muslims. Thus this issue is long confused as being characterized as a conflict between the Arab and African populations. Many scholars and historians tried to trace the history of this issue. Many believe that this civil war resulted from combination of environmental calamity, political opportunism and regional geopolitics.
Why didn’t the UN get involved?
The answer is quite simple. This is a perfect example of national sovereignty. The UN does not have any power over a nation. It can merely suggest.
The UN had passed a resolution, Resolution 1706 which aimed to aid Sudan by sending a new peacekeeping force of 20,000 to the region.
Sudan however, expressed strong opposition to the resolution, and asked the AU forces to leave the region adding “they have no right to transfer this assignment to the United Nations or any other party. This right rests with the government of Sudan."
The senior assistant to the President of the Republic, Minnawi, stated that he does not object to the new UN peacekeeping force. However, Sudanese president Al-Bashir claimed that it was a colonial plan and said that "we do not want Sudan to turn into another Iraq.”
Recently Sudan allowed UN peace keepers to enter and aid the country. Nevertheless, Sudan has rejected the expansion of the (UNMIS) to the troubled region. Presently the UN assists an African Union mission there.
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