Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Hons 101: Americans' Role in the World
President Bush announced additional sanctions against Myanmar's military junta in his speech at the United Nations last week. The president called on U.N. members to support nascent democracies and to oppose autocratic and tyrannical governments. Troops in Myanmar opened fire on anti-government protesters, resulting in at least ten fatalities. Here's an assessment of recent developments. Here's some background on Myanmar's recent history. Here's a discussion of the value of sanctions. Some experts believe engagement is the preferred course of action.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
The situation in Myanmar is absolutely horrendous. A gathering of more than five can constitute breaking the law? If the government has to be that strict, there's definitely something wrong. And to raise fuel prices in one of Asia's poorest countries... I'm just sick of the fuel situation, period. But to not allow people to openly protest (and to make them scared to), that's just sad. We should all be able to express ourselves, and it's not like the monks were running around with signs saying, "Kill our government officials!" or anything. I don't see why it's so threatening. I mean seriously, tear gas, batons and warning shots? Holy crap!
I never really understood these kinds of regimes anyway. If you're a good ruler, someone who respects the people's rights but is still feared enough to remain in power, then you're fit for the job. However, no one should ever have to succumb to this kind of treatment. Ever.
I'm torn on how the U.S. is handling it. I'm glad they're putting up sanctions; hopefully it makes the country change... But I'm also afraid these sanctions will hurt the people of Myanmar. They shouldn't have to suffer because their country's government is worthless.
One article mentioned the Dalai Lama had something to say about it. He happens to be my favorite person ever, so I'm going to have to look up to see what statements he has made and what ideas he might have.
~Crystal
Crystal and I share many similar views, and I truly question U.S. participation in our international community.
Many claim that since we are a leading nation we should help other countries in need. However, I still contend that we should participate in our international community and stand up for what we believe, but we shouldn't impose any doctrine on any country. Myanmar brings up questions about U.S. involvement. I agree that the U.S. should openly state their opinions; however do economic sanctions truly help the people of Myanmar? Is that a way to communicate our own opinions on what is going on? I do believe it is horrendous that they are getting killed just to openly protest their beliefs, but the true question is what should we as the U.S. do about it?
Post a Comment