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If This Is The Best The U.N. Can Do, Forget It

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 20, 2009

In theory, an international body made up of representatives from all countries that handles big, complex issues sounds perfectly logical. Our world needs an organization that brings all countries together to stop genocide, form better relationships, feed starving people and provide vaccines, and help people have an opportunity at a decent life. We need that, but apparently the United Nations is incapable of doing any of these things.

In Sudan, nearly a decade of genocide has killed hundreds of thousands, if not millions of people in the most brutal conditions. Women and children have been savagely raped. Men are tortured and murdered in front of their families. What has the United Nations done about it? Not much.

In Rwanda, the same kind of genocide happened. The incredible number of murders in a short span of time leaves most average folks wondering how in the world this could happen. If the United Nations cannot stop this kind of violence, what is its purpose?

Apparently the U.N.'s purpose is for countries to squabble, grandstand and allow dignitaries from around the world to live a life of perks and luxury. Solving complex problems never seems to be the body's No. 1 priority.

Some Americans are critical of the United Nations if our country doesn't get its way. That's not where our criticism lies. It's not about the United States dictating anything to the rest of the world. Just because America wants it doesn't mean it's the best idea for the rest of the world. As a nation we can live with that.

What we don't need, though, are obstructionists whose only agenda is to gum up the works anytime real work needs to get done. And member nations need to quit being wimps about sending U.N. troops into trouble spots to deal with war criminals and other nasty folks.

If what we currently see is the best the United Nations can do to deal with international problems, then it's time for something new. That's sad to say, because we need an effective and strong United Nations now more than ever.

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