Monday, April 21, 2014

American Political Commentary On International Consciousness

By Essie Osborn


The US is very instrumental through the way it impacts political decisions the world over. Its aim as a super power is to ensure that peace and tranquility prevails in all political situations. It is thus quite unfortunate for some nations to fault such positive interventions. In a shoddy american political commentary, they are always quick to cry foul that others are meddling in their private affairs. It is however a good gesture for the United States to stay put and for it to continue giving directions where necessary.


On first March, President Barack Obama made a phone call to the Russian president Vladimir Putin. In a conversation that lasted ninety minutes, the two heads of states deliberated on the international tension over Ukraine. They seemed not to be in agreement over the matter. While Obama felt that Russia was violating the sovereignty of Ukraine, his counterpart did not see any fault with the ongoing operation. The Russian forces had violated territorial violations by spreading to Crimea, a Ukrainian territory.

The bone of contention arose on the need for Russia to withdraw its forces from Crimea, which is entirely a territory of Ukraine. The conflict was fore grounded by a proclamation from The White House that threatened to issue a statement of withdrawal from any international function to be held in Ukraine. This could imply the failure of America to participate in the summit of the group of eight that was to be held in the Russian city of Sochi.

In this and many other instances, America greatly contributes to international consciousness through their continued insistence on accountability. In Africa, Uganda was almost sanctioned for refusing to recognize the rights of gays. Their argument that gay rights only worked in Europe could not be tolerated.

Just recently, the American president skipped his homeland, Kenya, in his visit to Africa. He only went as close to the neighboring Tanzania. His reason for this was that Kenya is a country rocked by impunity and political demagogy. This has gone a long way in transforming the Kenyan government and its view about the Western nations. They have now seen that even if they can seek solace in the East, the west cannot be entirely ignored.

The Rome statute was established to check on the issues of crime against humanity. Even though the US is not a member, it has always offered immense support and cooperation. For instance, the attempt of the Kenyan president and his deputy to withdraw their cases was discussed by the international community, and The United States was instrumental in calling for their cooperation with the court. They had to attend the court proceedings until such a time when their cases will be over.

Even though it has done most things right, there are some instances when The US really rubs others the wrong way. They normally seem to give no room for negotiations. It is either their way or never. This results into rebellion and outcry from the affected countries. The situation can become better is they accepted to be wrong at some point and allow solutions from other quarters.

It is therefore challenging for The United states. They are being watched and their proclamations are deeply analyzed. If they fail to participate they are faulted and if they do the faults are threefold. The only solution is therefore not to keep silent. Let them contribute avidly but approach political issues with moderation.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment