|
|
| by Christopher
Spencer |
Former Senior
Advisor International Organizations, Canadian Department of
Foreign Affairs and International Trade |
| Updated: 13 SEP
08 | |
Ruwantissa I. R. Abeyratne, Aviation Security: Legal and Regulatory Aspects(Brookfield: Ashgate
Publishing 98):-a specialized 400-page book would not normally be listed here. However this one
thoroughly/expertly covers serious global problem, is best reference work known, and includes
proposals for action. So recommended. Blurb states it: "examines offense of unlawful
interference with international civil aviation; analyses critically legal/regulatory regime...,
recommending...new approach to problem" .Among topics covered: Current Relevant Air Law;
Issues Involved: Aircraft Hijacking, Sabotage and Missile Attack; AirportAttacks; Airline Security;
Deterrence/Prevention; Legal Issues and Conventions; Drug Air Traffic and Counteraction; ICAO
Role; Sovereignty; ICC. ISBN 1-84014-544-7. For more information/ purchase: www.ashgate.com.
Aviation Trends in the New Millennium
Francis Kofi Abiew & Tom Keating "Outside Agents and the Politics of Peacebuilding and
Reconciliation" International Journal Vol.LV/No.1(Winter 99-00):-discusses new policy towards,
often mixedexperience with peacebuilding. Recent global trends:(1)major increase in intra-state
violence;(2)multilateral emphasis on individual human rights/security, and hence humanitarian
interventions. "In this context...peacebuilding emerged as central part of what rest of world to
offer to divided societies" i.e. not just hostilities end but all necessary for sustainable peace. Yet
past problems/ limitations demand careful look at practicality/suitability/ethics of outside
intervention in support of peace building in divided societies. Analyse various motivations
behind such intervention; then objectives: not just peace but also market democracy/ "politics
of reconciliation." Unhappy(Canadian)experience in Haiti dissected to draw lessons.
Morton Abramowitz & Thomas Pickering "Making Intervention Work: Improving the UN's Ability
to Act"(100-108) Foreign Affairs Vol.87/No.5(Sep/Oct 08):-official summary:"In the face of grave
humanitarian crises in countries such as Myanmar and Sudan, the international community has
failed to back up its rhetoric with deeds. To adequately address such situations, the United
Nations must streamline its decision-making, strengthen its peacekeeping capabilities, and
create a crisis-response force". Emphasized extracts:"International clamor must produce
results, not simply more clamor". "The UN needs a limited force to respond to humanitarian
disasters and prevent conflicts from spiraling out of control". Abramowitz is a Senior Fellow at
the Century Foundation and former US Ambassador to Thailand and Turkey. Pickering is Vice
Chair of Hills & Company and has served as US Ambassador to six countries and the UN.
James Adams, The Next World War: Computers Are the Weapons and the Front Line Is
Everywhere(New York: Simon & Schuster 98):-not primarily about technology, but rather warning
about (un)anticipated effects of accelerating revolution in many-faceted field of information
warfare(IW). Uses many original sources to explain fundamental changes in nature of combat.
Weapons can be disabling, non-lethal, long-distance, unmanned, multi-use, minuscule... Wars
may be battlefield-less, electronic, adversary-ambiguous, instantaneous... Intelligence and
surveillance will be pervasive/often decisive. At same time, vast technical lead -and complexity
- of rich countries' forces/societies also creates immense (cyber)vulnerability. In global
North-South terms, implies economically-advanced states will prefer to fight by exploiting their
technology, while any less-advanced opponents will tend to concentrate their attackson that
technology's weak points.[World community/UN will find "violent conflict" (formal inter-state
war now very rare)not only creates multiple new diplomatic/legal issues(time/space limits,
sanctions, intervention, lethality, causes, costs, crimes)but, most difficult of all, is increasingly
ambiguous, in terms of "participants" (both initiators and intended enemies/victims),
location(e.g. if electronic, disease-inducing, and/or delayed-action), aims(already true of
terrorism), even very existence(e.g. cyber-, resource- or bio-conflict; deliberate/ accidental?).One
major consequence then is that entire concept of conflict-resolution transformed.]
AFRICA: CURRENT PROBLEMS, SOURCES, AND SUGGESTED CURES: MEDIA SELECTION
John Grimond "Africa's Great Black Hope: Survey of South Africa" (1-16); "Africa's Elusive
Dawn" (Edit 17-8); "Aid to Africa" (59); "South African Governance: The End of Minority Rule"
(Bus.66)The Economist 24 Feb 01:-these four pieces complement each other. Even if two
concentrate on South Africa, its leading economic/political roles make it continent's bell-wether
- in success or failure. Editorial bitter: "Africa's parlous condition dreadful condemnation of
mankind's collective efforts to end poverty and promote freedom...[While]Millennium African
Renaissance Programme[made South Africa's president Mbeki call firstfor]'critical examination
of Africa's post-independence experience, and acceptance that things have to be done
differently'" ,editor chastises rich world for its tariffs, quotas, farm subsidies, unfavourable terms
of trade, weapons sales, debt inducement, tied/declining ODA - and for supporting corrupt
Africanregimes/prohibitive drug prices. Africa deserves both more support/better leaders. ODA
article stressesincreased British interest in helping poorest countries, i.e. mostly African which
received about 1b poundsin bilateral/multilateral aid in 99-00. UK will concentrate on getting new
technology/skills to students and would-be teachers, on debt relief, on police training and on
peacekeeping. Business item notes although,when South Africa's present rulers still rebels
threatened to nationalize big business; in power they have brought better corporate governance
through greater efficiency and transparency. "Break-up of old conglomerates coincided with
attempts to create new class of black businessmen" .Survey's analyses, whileconcentrating on
South African economic, social and political situation, have much relevance for whole of
Sub-Saharan Africa - and whole Third World. Two over-riding realities are:(1)elimination of very
rich, long-entrenched and well-armed racist regime, in refined/orderly way, and without expected
bloodbath(in continent only too experienced with ethnic dominations/bloodbaths);but(2)
apartheid's replacement by equal or worse horror: AIDS(now threatening all Third World).In
addition, relatively high (for Africa)average per capita income disguises "extremes of wealth and
poverty rivalled only in Brazil: South Africa really both first world and third world
country...Fortunately, long wait for freedom...provided time...to see how other countries coped
with self-government. And it brought goodwill, not least because South Africa blessed with
leadership of statesman of heroic proportions...Spirit of generosity seemed to characterise not
just Mandela but new South Africa as a whole" .Survey discusses:(1)Land(Re)Distribution: with
apartheid,white 15% of population effectively owned 87% of land, including all best;(2)Education:
takes 21% of budget/5.7% of GNP, but still mixes some of best and worst schools in
world;(3)Violent Crime: "threatensnot just South Africans' security but very basis of their
society" mainly for socio-historic reasons;(4)HIV/AIDS: "makes most other problems seem
trivial" with UNAIDS estimating 4.2m people HIV-positive; life expectancy expected to fall from
60 to 40 years by 08; social custom/ government policy at fault;(5)Racial Equality: affirmative
action and "black economic empowerment" encouraged by law, but racial gaps are probably
diminishing mainly through constitutional ban on discrimination;(6)Employment and Investment:
both facemajor shortfalls, although policy aims at" growth, employment and redistribution" ;"
only 40% of economically active population employed in formal" sectors;(7)Justice: made much
apparent progress: Constitution aims high, but partly unenforceable; independent Supreme
Court; Human Rights Commission against discrimination; novel Truth and Reconciliation
Commission provided neither, but offered "day in court" ; (8)Non-Blacks: about 250,000
whites(officially or unofficially)emigrated since majority rule, but those stayinggenerally do not
suffer: Afrikaners have adapted well; Indians have lost economically, and Colouredscomplain
they are "not black enough" ; Appraisal: is generally good, considering where things started and
African comparisons; biggest problems social: continuing dominance of racial concerns and
income gaps; catastrophe of AIDS and its socio-economic impact.
Masood Ahmed & Cheryl Gray Helping Countries Combat Corruption: The Role of the World
Bank(Washington: IBRD 97):-produced by World Bank's Poverty Reduction and Economic
Management Network(PREM). Bank's World Development Report 1997: The State in a Changing
World(op.cit.)also deals with global corruption issues in government context but mainly
descriptively, while PREM reportconcentrates on how Bank can help governments address
corruption as serious development constraint. Daniel Kaufmann(op.cit.)lists more articles and
books on this issue.
Salman Ahmed"No Size Fits All: Lessons in Making Peace and Rebuilding States"Foreign
AffairsVol.84/No.1(Jan/Feb 05):-Review Essay by Senior Political Officer, Office of UN USG for
Peacekeeping Operations who served in Cambodia, South Africa, Bosnia/Herzegovina,
Afghanistan and Iraq. Providesanalysis of the argumentation of three books: Roland Paris At
War's End: Building Peace After Civil Conflict(Cambridge: Cambridge Univ.Press 04); Kimberly
Zisk Marten Enforcing the Peace: Learning From the Imperial Past(New York: Columbia Univ.
Press 04); John Mueller The Remnants of War(Ithaca: Cornell Univ.Press 04). All three
draw"attention to important lessons that deserve serious consideration from policymakers and
practitioners...Still, these authors make too much of similarities among cases they study and not
enough of differences. And by using them to extrapolate bold models for state reconstruction,
authors belie inherent complexities of task...Specifics of...conflicts - their scale as well as their
historical geopolitical/socioeconomic roots - should inform how peace brokered/maintained. Yet
none...pays enough attention to such fundamental considerations."Essay is worth reading - as
a survey of all the issues faced by the UN when easing post-crisis problems.
AIDS: THIRD WORLD: COST-PATENT DILEMMA; GLOBAL ASSISTANCE
The HIV/AIDS pandemic is viewed increasingly as the most serious challenge facing global
society. Almost all material on this subject is found in the media and is included in RECENT
DEVELOPMENTS. To reach all media selections relating to AIDS, click on AIDS Third World.
John B.Alexander Future War: Non-Lethal Weapons in Twenty-First Century Warfare(New York:
St. Martin's Press 99):-excellent study of immense potential of non-lethal weapons, and impact
of global trends on aims of security. Assumed US/NATO must(via UN)be world police force.
Emerging threats for armed forces/police are: powerful criminal/terrorist organizations, together
with transnational/religious bodies/ groups seeing themselves as politically, economically or
socially deprived. Wide range of non-lethal weaponry includes acoustic, biological, chemical,
electromagnetic weapons, physical restraints, low-impact projectiles, information warfare.
Useful scenarios: peace support(UN)operations; technologicalsanctions; strategic paralysis;
hostages or barricades. Issues addressed: practical limitations, strategicimplications, moral
opposition, legal considerations, and constraints on "winning" .
Graham AllisonNuclear Terrorism: The Ultimate Preventable Catastrophe(New York: Owl
Books/Henry Holk & Co 05):-extremely expert/influential report argues in INTRODUCTION
that:"Given the number of actors with serious intent, the accessibility of weapons or nuclear
materials from which elementary weapons could be constructed, and the almost limitless ways
in which terrorists could smuggle a weapon through US borders, [i]n my own considered
judgment, on the current path, a nuclear terrorist attack on US inthe decade ahead is more likely
than not"(15). First chapter concludes:"What all [major terrorist] groups have in common is a
hatred of the US or the West, along with sophisticated organizational structuresand access to
technical know-how. [U]ncomfortable fact is that being the world's only superpower isinevitably
going to breed resentment of one form or another - and it is impossible to mollify every single
group. Challenge to US is to prevent these organizations from acquiring the means to threaten
us with nuclear attack"(42).Then describes"unique destructive power of these terrible weapons",
how/where they could be obtained, and where/when/how attacks might take place(43-120). Then
describes policy changes to reduce chance of attack. List: priority to issue; standard for secure
nuclear weapons/material; globalalliance against nuclear terrorism; global clean-out of all
dangerous fissile material; stop new national production of fissile material; shut down of nuclear
black markets; block emergence of nuclear weaponsstates; full review of global nonproliferation
regime; revise nuclear weapons' postures/pronouncements;global prosecuting war on
terrorism(205). Emphasis is on US but essential involvement must be global.
Kofi A.Annan "Peacekeeping, Military Intervention, and National Sovereignty in Internal Armed
Conflict" in Jonathan Moore edit. Hard Choices: Moral Dilemmas in Humanitarian
Intervention(Lanham: Rowman & Littlefield 98)(for book see Moore op.cit.):-UNSG notes how UN
operations forced to change radically since end of Cold War. One change been UN involvement
in internal armed conflicts. "Often do not lend themselves to traditional peacekeeping
treatment," requiring difficult coordinated political, military, andhumanitarian response.
Meanwhile "understanding of sovereignty undergoing significant transformation" : "matter of
responsibility, not just power." "[M]ust not be allowed to obstruct effective action to address
problems that transcend borders or to secure human dignity." Author then provides illustrations,
drawing mainly on UN role in Bosnia.
Kofi A. Annan, "Two Concerns of Sovereignty: International Intervention in Humanitarian Crises"
The Economist18 Sep 99(49-50):-UNSG gives his views on basic issues. Inaction in Rwanda and
interventions in Kosovo(no authority) and East Timor(too little too late)all justify criticism. We
need consensus "not only... that massive and systematic violations of human rights must be
checked...but also on ways of deciding what action is necessary, and when, and by whom."
Critical points: "intervention" should not be understood as referring only to use of force; we
need redefinition of sovereignty and broader definition of national interests that "would induce
states to find greater unity in pursuit of common goals and values...today,collective interest is
national interest" ;if force is necessary, Council must uphold Charter; act "in defence of our
common humanity" ;ceasefires do not end commitments.
Kofi A. Annan, "Preventing War and Disaster: A Growing Global Challenge" , Annual Report on
the Work of the Organization 1999, by the Secretary-General of the United Nations(New York:
DPI/2058; Sales No: E.99.1.29-Sep 1999):-after a convincing plea for more cost-saving global
efforts to foresee, prevent, or reduce human and natural crises, Annan summarizes all major UN
activities over year to Sep 99, and selected plans and problems(in 130pp). Chapters address:
peace and security; development; humanitarian issues; globalization; legal order; human rights;
administration. Overall impression: hard-won progress implementing UN
obligations/reforms/savings are frustrated by Members' selfishness/lack of political will/financial
irresponsibility. International LEGAL developments are mainly discussed, with emphasis
onhuman rights law, in the dedicated chapter(90-96), which gives particular emphasis to the
plannedInternational Criminal Court and the International Tribunals for former Yugoslavia and
Rwanda. The many UN-related legal questions handled by the Office of Legal Affairs are
discussed separately(104-9).
Kofi A. Annan, "We the Peoples: The Role of the United Nations in the 21st Century" Millennium
Report of S-G presented 03 Apr 00 to UNGA in preparation for the Millennial Summit 6-8 Sep 00:-
Executive Summary, Key Proposals, Full Report, Fact Sheet, Press Releases, SG UNGA
Statement, SG Press Conference Transcript: all under http://www.un.org/millennium/sg/report/.
Annan said report "attempts to present a comprehensive account of the challenges facing
humanity as we enter the twenty-first century, combined with a plan of action for dealing with
them" . Section titles with(very tight)summaries: I. New Century, New Challenges: New
millennium-Summit offers unique occasion to reflect on world's common destiny, since
interconnected as never before. UN can help meet challenges ahead and be reshaped now to
make a real difference. II. Globalization and Governance: Globalization unequally distributed and
lacks shared social objectives. More people(plus crime, drugs, terrorism, pollution, disease,
weapons, migrants, refugees)interact across frontiers faster, and feel more threatened/ horrified
by distant events/conditions. New technologies enable common understanding/action, so must
learn to govern better, together. States need mutual help via common institutions, from
non-state actors, and informal policy networks. The unequal/unstable/unsustainable world
development model needs agreed remedial measures. III. Freedom From Want: .5b live on less
than $1 a day, so must reduce extreme poverty by half before 2015. Priorities: sustained growth;
all children complete primary school by 2015 and all youth finddecent work; by 2010 HIV
infection rate in young cut by 25% -one result of more LDC-relevant research; improve lives of
100m slum dwellers by 2020; experts/charities to tackle low agricultural productivity in Africa,
as governments give higher priority to poverty; maximize LDC access to infonets to speed
development; rich states open markets to LDCs, offer more debt relief, and focus increased
ODA. IV.Freedom From Fear: internal wars killed 5m in decade; WMD remain threat; security
protects people, not territory. Tackle conflict by: prevention, more balanced development,
human/minority rights, exposingweapons/money/resource smuggling; protect the vulnerable by
enforcing international/human rights law; using UNSC for armed intervention when rights and
lives are massively violated; consider peace operations review panel proposals; target "smart"
sanctions more; improve control of small arms transfers, and reduce dangers of existing nuclear
arms and proliferation. V. Sustaining Our Future: Most planet-sustaining actions are too few,
little, and late. Before 2002, must: cope with climate change: reduce emissions 60% by
efficient/renewable energy, implementing Kyoto Protocol; meet water crisis: accept 2015 target
of 50% reduction in those without safe/affordable water, raise agricultural productivity per unit
of water, improve management; defend soil: biotechnology may be best hope for sufficient food
production, so debate must be resolved globally; preserve forests, fisheries, biodiversity with
joint government/private sector conservation; build new stewardship ethic: public education,
integration ofenvironment into economic policy, regulations/ incentives, accurate scientific data.
VI. Renewing the UN: Must find consensus solutions among governments, private sector, NGOs,
and IOs, with UN as catalyst. Build on core UN strengths(norm-setting, global actions,
humanitarian trust)to press rule of law, adapt UNSC, and work with NGOs, private sector and
foundations, including through informal policy networks; work with industry to exploit
information technology; improve UN management throughstructural/agenda reform,
priority-setting, more flexibility, results-based budgeting. VII. For Consideration by the Summit:
Act on basis of shared Charter values: Freedom, Equity and Solidarity, Tolerance, Non-Violence,
Respect for Nature, Shared Responsibility. Adopt resolutions drawn from Report as
evidence.Reviews: Barbara Crossette, "Annan Urges High-Tech Aid for Poor Countries" in New
York Times 4 Apr;The Economist 8 Apr: "Kofi Annan's Words to the World: Bouncing to a Fairer
World" (51).
Kofi A. Annan, "Common Destiny, New Resolve" , Annual Report on the Work of the Organization
2000, by the Secretary-General of the United Nations(New York: DPI/2153;Sales No.E.00.1.22-Sep
99):-UNSG begins by noting report to Millennium Summit, "We the Peoples: The Role of the
United Nations in the 21st Century" (op.cit.), includes his assessment of humanity's progress
and challenges at turn of millennium,and suggests ways in which international community can
work together to" better lives of people still left behind" .Introduction, summarizing 130-page
report on major UN activities over year to Sep 00, highlights: (1)Demands on UN humanitarian
agencies far exceeded worst-case predictions; (2)Living standards in sub-Saharan Africa still
declining; (3)AIDS pandemic spreads with frightening rapidity; needs stronger commitment to
action; (4)Three new peace missions were created, straining UNHQ resources.
(5)Reviewsanalysed UN failures in Srebrenica and Rwanda; offered recommendations. (6)
controversial economicbenefits of globalization must be more inclusive/equitably shared.
(7)Must be cooperative management ofglobal economic affairs through more effective
governance. (8)Informal global policy networks involving governments, international institutions,
civil society and private sector have great potential. Chapters: Peace/Security; Humanitarian
Commitments; Development; International Legal Order/Human Rights; UNManagement.
Kofi A. Annan "Courage To Fulfil Our Responsibilities" The Economist 04 Dec 04(23-5):-UNSG
offers global action-urging essay built on his immediate reaction to report of the High-Level
Panel on Threats, Challenges and Change. Following his urgent introduction is a brief summary
of Annan's alreadyconcentrated and rearranged version of the panel report's many
concerns/proposals. Its value is less to summarize the panel's views than to identify subjects
they and/or he discuss. "We face a world of extraordinary challenges - and of extraordinary
interconnectedness. We are all vulnerable to new security threats, and to old threats that are
evolving in complex and unpredictable ways. Either we allow this array of threats, and our
responses to them, to divide us, or we come together to take effective action to meet all of them
on basis of a shared commitment to collective security. I asked the 16 members of [panel]-
eminent people representing many nations and points of view - to analyse the threats to
peaceand security our world faces; to evaluate how well our existing policies and institutions
are meeting them; and to recommend changes to those policies and institutions, so as to ensure
an effective collective response to those threats. Their report...makes 101 far-sighted but
realistic recommendations. If acted on, they would address the security concerns of all states,
ensure that UN works better, strengtheninternational rule of law and make all people safer" .
First: threats. Event/process leading to deaths on large scale/lessening life chances or
undermines states, should be viewed as threat to innatl peace/security.Clusters: economic/
social, including poverty/disease; inter-state conflict/rivalry; internal violence: civil war/state
collapse/genocide; nuclear/radiological/chemical/ biological weapons; terrorism; innatl crime.
Threats interconnected to unprecedented degree; no state alone can defeat. Highly enriched
uranium at size of 6 milk cartons could level medium-sized city as nuclear device. Such attack
in US/Europe isstaggering cost for world economy. Security of developed states only as strong
as ability of poor statesto respond to/contain new deadly infectious disease. Incubation period
for most is longer than most air flights, so any one of 700m who travel airlines in year could
unwittingly carry lethal virus to unsuspecting state. Today, virus similar to 1918 influenza could
kill tens of millions in fraction of a year. In today's worldany threat to one is truly threat to all;
applies to all categories of threats. Since real limits on self-protection,all states need
collective-security system, committing all to act cooperatively against dangers. Given gravity/
interconnectedness of threats, world needs more active prevention. Prevention can be highly
effective(Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty);WHO helped halt SARS. Best prevention agents:
capable states, acting/cooperating with others. Best preventive strategy: is development
support. Millennium Development Goals to halve poverty/hunger by 2015 states' best security
investment. It will save lives/reduce violentconflict and radicalism/bolster state ability against
threats before real harm. HIV/AIDS shows danger ofinadequate prevention. Slow/ineffective
global response allowed 20m killed/20 years; spread continues andworst to come. Ultimate cost
will include shattered societies. Still not taking all needed steps to bring under control. Also
need public-health facilities built in poor world. Not only poorer states benefit disease treatment/
local prevention; whole world has better defence against bio-terrorism/large-scale natural
epidemics. UNSC should work with WHO to strengthen biological security via prompt, effective
responses. Equal: greater environmental collective action, including beyond Kyoto protocol to
better resources management in states at risk. Prevention also vital to protect against terrorism.
New is range/scale/ intensity of threat(al-Qaeda can kill around world/has struck in 10+ UN
members). Could acquire instruments of massive destruction: unprecedented danger. UN must
better use assets in fight against terrorists:articulate a strategy respectful of laws/human rights.
Definition of terrorism offered: any action intended to kill/seriously harm civilians/
non-combatants, with purpose of intimidating population/ compelling action by government/
innatl organization. States should use to build consensus and strengthen UN response to deadly
scourge. Also urgent recommendations on non-proliferation/disarmament/curbing supply of
materials to reduce risk of nuclear/chemical/biological attacks by states/terrorist groups. States
encouraged to end development of domestic uranium enrichment and urged to voluntary time-
limited moratorium on reprocessing plant construction. IAEA ability to monitor compliance with
Non-Proliferation Treaty strengthened by standards in protocol for safeguards inspections.
Since Cold War, UN far moreengaged in preventing/ending civil wars; ended more through
negotiation since 90 than in previous 200 years; developed expertise/learned hard lessons. As
demand for UN blue helmets grows, need to boost peacekeeper supply/avoid 90s worst failures.
Rich states should hasten efforts transforming existing forces for UN peace operations. UN must
invest in mediation/support peace agreement implementation.Demobilize combatants/reintegrate
into civil life; otherwise civil wars not successfully ended/other goals(democracy/justice/
development) remain unmet. Often innatl community lost focus if crisis high point past/
peacekeepers left. Propose UNSC create Peacekeeping Commission; to give strategic focus for
work in states under stress/emerging from conflict. If prevention/peaceful resolution fails, UN
must be able torely on force. Whatever reason: all states/UNSC should bear in mind basic
guidelines/ questions: (1)Seriousness of threat: does it justify force?(2)Proper purpose: does
proposed force halt/avert threat?(3)Last resort: all non-military options explored/exhausted? (4)
Proportional means: force proposed minimum necessary?(5)Balance of consequences: clear
action not worse than inaction? No need to amend Art.51of UN Charter: any state's right of
self-defence against armed attack/pre-emptive action against imminent threat. However if states
fear threats, neither imminent nor proximate, but which could culminate in horrific violence if left
to fester, UNSC already powered to act/must be prepared to take action earlier than past, when
asked/reliable evidence. Protection of civilians inside states long fraught with controversy. Yet
recognized more widely that question better framed, not as intervene-right but protection-
responsibility -borne first/foremost by states. Panel agreed principle of non-intervention in
internal affairs cannot protect committing genocide/large-scale ethnic cleansing/other
comparable atrocities. I hope UN members agree/UNSC will act. UN(now nearly 60)born in very
different time/world, so has under-appreciated record of adapting to new dangers, e.g.
peacekeeping in world's civil wars/response to attack of Sep 01. Clearly needs far-reaching
reform to prevent/respond to all current threats. Some propose via-UN collective response too
difficult/ not necessary. But all anti-threat actions impact beyond immediate context/all states
benefit from shared global framework. Not mean UN needs to do everything. It must learn of
share burdens/welcome help from others/work with them. Already does so; report recommends
strengthened UN partnerships with regional organs/individual states. Great attention: UNSC
reform. Objectives: makeUNSC more effective/authoritative. Permanent membership devised
(1945)to ensure active engagement of big powers to maintain peace/security. New permanent
members matter of controversy/debate. Two suggestions, both expanding membership to 24;
aim at: add those who contribute most to UN financially/ militarily/diplomatically; ensure UNSC
represents UN as whole; not expand veto, which would renderdecisions more difficult.
Proposals offer chance breakthrough in year ahead. If acted on, UNSC more representative/
better equipped for decisive action. Need strengthened UN secretariat that can support
Peacebuilding Commission; implement UNSC/ committee decisions better on peacekeeping/
mediating civil wars. Report envisages more concerted-action secretariat, with UNSG more
responsible formanagement/accountability. Equally important: ECOSOC overhaul to strengthen
role in social development/ improving knowledge on economic-social dimensions of security
threats. Also, recommendsHuman Rights Commission better defender of rights of all. After 60
years, once again find world mired in disillusionment and all too imperfect. Easy to stand at
sidelines and criticise/talk endlessly about UN reform, but world no longer has that luxury. Time
to adapt collective security system so it works efficiently/effectively/ equitably. Next year UN
states reviewing progress on Millennium Declaration; world leaders' summit in Sep. Appropriate
moment to act on some of most important recommendations in report.I will indicate which call
for decisions at that level. Fervently hope world leaders will rise to challenge. Have all lived
through period of deep division and sombre reflection. Must make 05 year of bold decision; all
share responsibility for each other's security. Let's summon courage to fulfil responsibility."
Complete text of "A More Secure World: Our Shared Responsibility" Report of the High-level
Panel on Threats, Challenges and Change, plus initial comments by requester/addressee, UNSG
Kofi Annan, can be read and even copied(99pp Acrobat Reader)from Secretary General's part
of UN file (www.un.org). Executive Summary(8pp Acrobat)also available at same address.
Capturing the 21st Century Security: Prospects for Collective Responses(Oct 04)collects reports
from six Stanley Foundation conferences in 04 that dealt with UNSG panel. Report at
http://reports.stanleyfoundation.org. Council on Foreign Relations "Q&A: Reforming the United
Nations" 01 Dec 04:-originally available either by NYT>CFR>International>[title] or via CFR
directly. This is expert interview with Lee Feinstein who" has spearheaded Council work on the
United Nations" and studied the important UN report and its UNGA prospects.
"Anonymous"Imperial Hubris: Why the West Is Losing the War on Terror(DullesVA: Brassey's
04):-author is a senior US intelligence official with nearly 20 years experience in national security
issues related to Afghanistan and South Asia. This strong critique of arrogant US/allies' policies
towards Osama bin Laden/al Qaeda, and military action against Afghanistan/Iraq, proved quickly
influential in many respects, and advocates less US loyalty to Israel/corrupt Muslim regimes or
presence in Mideast. Motivation of Muslim terrorists is identified not as hatred/fear of Western
national systems but of their broadly negative actions against Islamic peoples. All complex
chapter titles: (1)Some Thoughts on the Power of Focused, Principled Hatred. (2) An Unprepared
and Ignorant Lunge to Defeat - The US in Afghanistan. (3) Not Down, Not Out: Al Qaeda's
Resiliency, Expansion, and Momentum. (4) The World's View of bin Laden: A Muslim Leader and
Hero Coming into Focus? (5) Bin Laden Views the World: Some Old, Some New, and a Twist. (6)
Blinding Hubris Abounding: Inflicting Defeat on Ourselves - Non-War, Leaks, and Missionary
Democracy. (7) When the Enemy Sets the Stage: How US's Stubborn Obtuseness Aids Its Foes.
(8) The Way Ahead: A Few Suggestions for Debate. Epilogue: No Basis for Optimism.
Clair Apodaca, Michael Stohl, George Lopez, "Moving Norms to Political Reality:
Institutionalizing Human Rights Standards through the United Nations System" (185-220)in The
Future of the United Nations System: Potential for the Twenty-First Century(New York: UN Univ.
98):-extremely useful study of UN human rights structures, treaties and activities, employing a
new sense that state legitimacy derives from internal order and regard for standards. Four main
UN purposes include promotion of human rights, set down in Universal Declaration(48)and
amplified in two International Covenants(76).All three now binding on all states. Many more
specific UN System treaties, with recent emphasis on Humanitarian Law.Growing human rights
roles of NGOs, High Commissioner and complex UN structures are explained.Reform proposals
involve structure, NGO protection and regional action.
Reza Aslan No god but God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam(New York: Random
House 05):-The widely-read author defines his aim in the Prologue: "This book is not just critical
reexamination of the origins and evolution of Islam, nor is it merely an account of the current
struggle among Muslims to define the future of this magnificent yet misunderstood faith. This
book is, above all else, an argument for reform"(xx). William Grimes, in his New York Times 04
May 05 review, quotes the book:"What is taking place now in the Muslim world is an internal
conflict between Muslims, not an external battle between Islam and the West"(248). Grimes
himself argues: "[Islam's] history, grippingly narrated and thoughtfully examined, takes up nearly
all of 'No god but God'. Aslan... has written a literate, accessible introduction to Islam.,. carefully
placing its message/rituals in historical context. Complete with glossary/annotated bibliography,
it could easily serve as a college textbook". The 310-page book includes 21st century arguments:
"[T]he attacks of 11 Sep 01 were not a defensive strike against a specific act of aggression
against Islam. They were never sanctioned by a qualified mujtahid. They made no differentiation
between combatant/noncombatant.,. indiscriminately killed women, children, and approximately
200 Muslims. In other words, they fell far short of the regulations imposed by Muhammad for a
legitimate jihadi response, which is why, despite common perception in the West, they were so
roundly condemned by the vast majority of the world's Muslims"(87). "Tragic events of 11 Sep...
initiated a vibrant discourse among Muslims about meaning/message of Islam in 21st century...
It may be too early to know who will write the next chapter of Islam's story, but it is not too early
to recognize who will ultimately win the war between reform/counterreform... But the cleansing
inevitable, and tide of reform cannot be stopped. Islamic Reformation is already here"(266).
Associated Press, "UN Council Endorses Gun Control" New York Times 24 Sep 99:-on 24 Sep
Security Council unanimously endorsed report by SG Annan on ways to reduce global stock of
500m handguns, rifles, shotguns and assault weapons. "Sweeping gun-control measures"
reportedly included ban on private ownership of assault rifles presumably in wording US could
accept. Nevertheless purpose of action while not binding, is "to increase pressure on world
governments to impose stricter gun control measures and reduce arms trade." Significant, with
200m+ firearms owned by US citizens, that Annan stated clearly: "easyavailability of small arms
has in many cases contributed to violence..." US Secretary of State apparently only spoke of
tightening international/illicit arms traffic. Over 3m, mostly civilians, have been killed since 89in
conflicts fought with only small arms.
Associated Press, "Number of Refugees Grows Worldwide" New York Times 13 Jun 00:-World
Refugee Survey 2000, issued by prestigious US Committee for Refugees, claims that at end of
20th Century there were35m people worldwide "uprooted and in need of protection." Conflict
contributed 7m to this in 99 alone, and despite UN success in ending some long-term disputes
following end of Cold War, this estimated total had risen from 29m in 90. Moreover, of these,
13.7m are found in Africa(4.4m in Sudan alone).Another trend has been continually growing
number of refugees that for various reasons remain in their own countries:Internally Displaced
Persons. Identified IDPs now number at least 4m, and clearly demand higher priority from
UN-UNHCR since they are not afforded same legal protections and care as" international"
refugeesunder Geneva Conventions. On other hand, there is hope that some sources of refugees
and IDPs may bein sight of permanent solution. Elizabeth Rosenthal, "Famine in North Korea
Creates Steady Human Flow into China" NYT 10 Jun:-report on motives and stratagems of North
Korean refugees within/outside their country. Any moves towards Korean reconciliation could
have major and rapid effect on this crisis. For evenlonger-term look at issue of unwilling
migration, AP reports "Conference Addresses Migration" NYT 10 Jun:-experts Paris meeting
organized by Universal Academy of Cultures concluded "globalization demands greater moral
responsibility and intervening in sovereign nations is plausible response to misery that drives
populations beyond their borders." Those seeking political asylum increased from 250,000 in 87
to 900,000 in 92, but then declined to 388,000 in 98,perhaps reflecting growing influence of such
perceptionin UN. Meanwhile, if Europe's population falls 100m by 50, migration waves may
become beneficial.
Associated Press "Activists Seek Cluster Bomb Ban" New York Times 08 Aug 00:-British arm
of International Campaign to Ban Land Mines has called for global moratorium on use,
manufacture and sale of cluster bombs, pending in-depth review of their legality and impact.
While designed to scatter immediately-exploding "bomblets" over large area, significant
numbers of bomblets fail to explode on first impact; so effectively become land mines. By
causing civilian casualties for years after hostilities end, charged their use is "indiscriminate and
in clear breach of international humanitarian law." Group calls for laws requiring clearance after
combat, compensation of civilian casualties and deployment records.Reuters, "UK Anti-Land
Mine Group Seeks Ban on Cluster Bombs" NYT 8 Aug :- gives similar facts, but adds bomblets
can blight farmland, impede economic recovery, grow in lethality over time.
Associated Press "Nations Vow to Fight Urban Blight" New York Times 09 Jun 01:-results of
five-year-review of progress in meeting UN Habitat Agenda, agreed upon at 96 global summit on
urban issues in Istanbul. New York review conference produced UN Declaration on Cities and
Other Human Settlements in the New Millennium which reaffirmed commitment to Agenda
principles regarding "adequate housing for all and sustainable development of world's cities"
-no easy task since many countries" openly admit they have made little progress since Istanbul
meeting. More than 1b...still lack adequate housing[out of 3b(50%)global urban population, and
since f]ast-growing slums are common on outskirts of Asian, Africa and Latin American cities"
.Textual crises overcome involved Palestinian proposal to criticize Israel, and US refusal to
reaffirm adequate housing as "human right" .
Associated Press"Maritime Authorities OK Tracking Measure"New York Times 19 May
06:-"Maritime authorities have agreed upon new legislation that will allow for long-range tracking
of merchant ships - a key measure in tackling the threat of seaborne terrorist attacks, the UN
International Maritime Organization said [19 May]. A total of 166 countries have agreed to the
new rules for merchant vessels, which would also allow countries to conduct surveillance on
vessels suspected of carrying illicit cargo.Organization said signatory governments had
provisionally agreed to the changes in the Safety of Life at Sea convention... 'Ships will be
required to transmit their identity, location and date and time of theirposition to be tracked by
satellite', said UN shipping agency's external relations officer... New legislation will mean a
ship's position can be identified up to 1,000 nautical miles from shore. Current systems
arelimited to a range of a few hundred nautical miles... Merchant vessels trading in international
waters willneed to switch to new long-range system by Jan 08, offering maritime authorities a
system similar tothat used by air traffic controllers";
Associated Press "Annan Paints Grim Picture to Assembly"New York Times 19 Sep
06:-"Addressing world leaders for last time as UNSG, Kofi Annan painted a grim picture of an
unjust world economy, global disorder, widespread contempt for human rights, and appealed
for nations/peoples to truly unite. As theannual UN General Assembly [UNGA] ministerial
meeting got under way, 192 UN member states facedambitious agenda including trying to
promote Mideast peace, curb Iran's nuclear ambitions, get UN peacekeepers into
conflict-wracked Darfur, promote democracy... Annan, whose second five-year term ends 31 Dec
06, said the past decade has seen progress in development, security, rule of law - the threegreat
challenges he said humanity faced in first address to UNGA in 97. But UNSG said too many still
exposed to brutal conflict, and fear of terrorism has increased clash of civilizations/religions.
Terrorismbeing used as pretext to limit or abolish human rights, and globalization risks driving
richer and poorer apart, he said. 'Events of last 10 years have not resolved, but sharpened, three
great challenges - unjust world economy, world disorder, and widespread contempt for human
rights and rule of law', Annan said.'As result, we face world whose divisions threaten very notion
of an international community, upon which this institution stands. I remain convinced that only
answer to this divided world must be a truly United Nations' , he said. In annual report, UNSG
touched on some of most difficult issues confronting leaders... [Arab-Israeli conflict; Iraq;
Afghanistan; Sudan/Darfur]. 'Together we have pushed some big rocks to top of the mountain,
even if others have slipped from our grasp and rolled back. But this mountain... is best place on
earth to be',UNSG said.'I yield my place to others with an obstinate feeling of hope for our
common future', Annan said. [UNGA] loud applause/rose in sustained standing ovation".
Deborah Avant "THINK AGAIN: Mercenaries" Foreign Policy No.143(Jul/Aug 04):-a correction of
ten public (mis)concepts about the current activities and value of(mainly US-employed)PRIVATE
SECURITY FIRMS vs (traditional)MERCENARIES.(See also Sarah V. Percy op.cit.) Avant first
offers widely-believed view about such firms ( "Quoted/Under-lined Phrases" ); then states a
FIRM ONE/TWO-WORD REACTION; then saysat length her views of the actual truth. "Private
Security Companies Are Mercenaries" -NO. "'Mercenary'describes wide variety of military
activities, many of which bear little resemblance to those of today's...corporate endeavours that
perform logistics support, training, security, intelligence work, risk analysis, and much more"
. "The Bush Administration Has Dramatically Expanded Use of Military Contractors" -WRONG.
"US ramped up military outsourcing during 1990s, after end of Cold War brought reductions in
force size and numerous ethnic and regional conflicts emerged requiring intervention" .
"Contractors Don't Engage in Combat or Other Essential Military Tasks" -FALSE. " Although...
Rumsfeld said Pentagon would outsource all but core military tasks, these tasks are changing,
and military contractors perform many of them. Contractors have technical expertise to support
increasingly complex weapons systems[andintelligence services for war on terrorism]" .
"Military Contractors Are Cheaper than Regular Soldiers" -PROVE IT. "Two conditions must be
present for private sector to deliver services more efficiently than government: competitive
market and contractor flexibility in fulfilling their obligations.[G]overnmentsfrequently curtail
competition to preserve reliability and continuity[and]impose conditions that reduce contractors'
flexibility" . "Contractors Are Accountable to No One" -AN EXAGGERATION. "Manygovernments
regulate security contractors to greater or lesser degrees... Contractors are accountable to range
of employers and respond most effectively to market incentives...Use of contractors to
avoidgovernmental accountability is more worrisome. "Contractors Value Profits More than
Peace" -NOT ALWAYS." Although many critics argue that military contractors have economic
interest in prolonging conflict rather than reducing it, employees of private military companies
rarely have been accused of aggravating conflict intentionally to keep profits flowing" .
"Contractors Operate Outside the Law" -FREQUENTLY "Legal status of contractors varies
considerably. Sometimes they are subject to laws of territory in which they operate and other
times to those of their home territory, but too often distinction isunclear...Status of contractors
is even more contentious under international law. Most...activity falls outside purview of 1989
UN Convention on Mercenaries" . "Only Governments Hire Private Security Companies"
-WRONG. "Security contractors work for governments, transnational corporations, and
nongovernmental organizations(NGOs). Oil, diamond, and other extractive industries hire
contractors toguard their facilities, and UN and NGOs employ convoy guards. In Iraq, nearly
every foreign entity...requiresprivate security" . "The United Nations Should Outsource
Peacekeeping to Private Contractors" -NO. "Those who advocate that UN hire private
contractors are not looking to replace UN peacekeeping forces. Rather, they hope to make them
more flexible and easier to use...Outsourced peacekeeping is...unlikely.UNSC and UNGA have
been reluctant to consider it because of weak governments' concern that private security forces
could be used against them" . "Private Military Contractors Undermine State Power" -NOT
ALWAYS. "Contractors undermine states' collective monopoly on violence. Fact that US, Britain,
Australia and UN hire private security makes it hard for nations that oppose military contracting
to restrict security firms based in their country" . For another excellent (different) description of
current use of mercenaries, see The Economist 04 Nov 06"Mercenaries: Blood and
Treasure"(70-1):-Highlight is:"In recent decades,mercenaries... pushed to the wilder edges of
global conflict: the 'dogs of war'who fight nasty little campaigns in Africa. But for a new kind of
soldier of fortune, the fighting in Iraq has proved to be a pot of gold". Item's own summary:"After
the windfall of Iraq, where is the next fortune to be found?".
Lloyd Axworthy and Sarah Taylor, "A Ban for All Seasons: The Landmines Convention and Its
Implications for Canadian Diplomacy" International Journal Vol.LIII/No.2(Spring 98):-almost
entirely on techniques used to persuade 122 governments to sign Convention(Dec 97)to
eliminate the manufacture/use/export of anti-personnel landmines. Thrust: "Ottawa process"
required governments and civil society to work together as team. This "soft power" approach
is more appropriate because of changed international issues/relations/ outcomes that also call
for more focus on human(vs state)security and humanitarian law.(See Hampson-Oliver
op.cit.)The Economist 04 Dec 04 "Lifting Landmines: Easy To Lay, Hard To Dig Up"
(46):-describes how one of world's worst minefields being cleared, and reports on
techniques/global issues, at the time of an international landmine conference in Nairobi. "Rats,
sniffer dogs and armour-plated bulldozers canhelp, but most mine-clearing still done by hand,
usually by man with pointed stick and plastic mask." Those in Angola use no metal detectors
since ground scattered with bullet casings as well. De-miners are rarely killed. "In five years
since global ban agreed in Ottawa, nearly 40m landmines ...destroyed. Most were in stockpiles,
but some 4m were painstakingly found and dug up. Nonetheless,devices still kill or maim 40
people/day...Some armies, such as Sudan's, continue to plant them.Guerrillas and rebels respect
no treaties. Only complete destruction of existing stocks and end to manufacture would cut off
supply. But that would require all countries to sign up to Ottawa treaty. So far144 countries have,
but China, Russia, Pakistan, India, US still refuse. China...considering signing, butUS will not,
mostly because minefields help keep North Koreans out of South Korea...US plans to switch to
using mines that self-destruct after a few weeks(though not always reliably)will be used as
excuse never to sign treaty. Men...will be prodding gingerly for long time yet."
Sydney D.Bailey & Sam Daws, The Procedure of the U N Security Council (Third Edition)(New
York: Oxford Univ. Press 98):-clearly most complete, authoritative and readable reference book
on how UNSC works(or doesn't). With Council often in news and Canada member, knowing
better what going on, and why, of practical value. There are 400 pages, but all can be read
through quite painlessly as sprinkled with amusing anecdotes. For reference, chapters address
distinct topics: The Constitutional Framework(how and why extraordinaryCharter role);The
Council Meets(ever more secret huddles; what about; how methods change);The People(S-Gs;
Presidents; dreaded P5; from polite quips to slugfests);Diplomacy and Debate(how debates are
won -or stalled while your side wins war);Voting (various species of votes; skullduggery with
veto);Relations with Other Organs(phantom Military Staff; UNGA hordes; Trusteeship Council
immortality; eternal votes over ICJ judges; more skullduggery over S-Gs);Subsidiary
Organs(planting acorns or pulling weeds);New Charter, New Members, New Rules, New Working
Practices, or New National Policies?(UNSCreform deadlock and how to ignore it).Plus 200 pages
of Appendices, on everything. To complete picture,Election of Nonpermanent Members
described by Malone(op.cit.).
Carter F.Bales & Richard D.Duke "Containing Climate Change: An Opportunity for U.S.
Leadership"(78-89) Foreign Affairs Vol.87/No.5(Sep/Oct 08):-official summary:"Greenhouse gas
emissions are harming the environment and the global economy. After cleaning up its own act,
US must enlist developing countries in a new climate-control regime that promises to
dramatically reduce emissions and encourage energy efficiency and the development of clean-energy technology". Emphasized extracts:"A cap-and-invest strategy would allow US to develop
a clean economy at little or no net cost". "Time has come for US to lead the fight against global
warming at home and abroad". Bales: Managing Partner Emeritus of Wicks Group of Companies.
Duke: Director of Natural Resources Defense Council's Center for Market Innovation.
Scott Barrett Why Cooperate? The Incentive to Supply Global Public Goods (New York: Oxford
Univ Press 07):-surprisingly well written -considering the complexity of issues- in: (1) describing
the existing global challenges (e.g. climate change, nuclear proliferation, worldwide pandemics)
and those that threaten the entire planet (e.g. terrorism, physical/chemical/biological instabilities,
asteroids); and (2) reporting on how such problems have been successfully or badly handled
in the past, the rationales involved, and the various cooperations that would/might work best in
future. Barrett's "threat" approach differs from my item "EARTH MUST COOPERATE...", mainly
in stressing "Global Public Goods" actions of the recent past (e.g.often successful United
Nations; wonderful "Montreal Protocol" ozone treaty), whereas my gloomy and concentrated
"page" is designed almost solely to identify: (1) the exploding scale/variety of global threats; (2)
the human tendencies that have created/will create them; and (3) why we must change a number
of very old human views/feelings. Both press broader global diplomacy as essential tool. Most
chapters focus on distinct types of issue/solution. [Even a study of brief bit(s) of 275p would be
valuable.] Titles: Incentives to Supply Global Public Goods [GPG]; (1) Single Best Efforts: GPG
that Can Be Supplied Unilaterally or Minilaterally; (2) Weakest Links: GPG that Depend on States
that Contribute the Least; (3) Aggregate Efforts: GPG that Depend on Combined Efforts of All
States; (4) Financing and Burden Sharing: Paying for GPG; (5) Mutual Restraint: Agreeing What
States Ought Not to Do; (6) Coordination and Global Standards: Agreeing What States Ought to
Do; (7) Development: Do GPG Help Poor States?; Conclusion: Institutions for Supply of GPG.
Jean-Francois Bayart, Stephen Ellis & Beatrice Hibou The Criminalization of the State in
Africa(Oxford:James Currey 99):-inevitably researched unscientifically, seeks to explain multiple
political-economic crises of Africa(i.e.south of Sahara)as whole. "African specialists" after
lamenting demography/stagnation-acerbated poverty/hyper-urbanization, highlight certain
developments: facade of democratic transition/structural adjustment/other reforms; armed
conflicts' continuation or spread; above all, elites' massive involvement in corrupt/criminal
activities(drugs/other smuggling; political-financial/other fraud; coercion/violence).While driven
by change, these African reactions show historical influence of approving accumulation of
power and wealth through devious personal initiative. Thus nationalism, government and law
are simply used; theircriminalization culturally-rooted.
Anne F.Bayefsky "Enforcing International Human Rights Law" (117-26) in Canadian Foreign
Policy Vol.6/No.1 (Fall 1998):-rapporteur's report of 1997 experts' conference whose aims were
to improve enforcement of the six major UN human rights(HR)treaties, and " to develop a vision
for the advancement of the treaty regime" . Apart from listing 106 very specific
recommendations, eight underlying principles were identified: (1) HR are universal; (2) HR
universality is diluted by widespread reservations; (3) HR protection is directlyrelated to
democracy, good governance and rule of law; (4) Strength of HR treaty system is equal
application of standards to all UN members; (5) International HR law/institutions complement
natural HR systems; (6) Good implementation requires victim's access to state reporting; (7) Full
compliance information is essential to credible/effective treaty regime; (8) NGOs play vital role
in enforcement.
Zanny Minton Beddoes "Global Finance: Time for a Redesign?" The Economist 30 Jan
99(1-18):-excellentSURVEY: (1)identifies perceived and objective problems with generally
uncontrolled, if IMF- "cushioned" ,world financial system;(2)describes often radical, mutually
incompatible, and/or unfeasible reform plans; (3)offers some more modest but workable
proposals. Dangers include certainty of crises if systems are not changed; IMF's "moral-hazard"
role not reduced. Reform ideas range from IMF-abolition, through capital controls, to creation
of global regulator, central bank, or world currency. Incompatible objectives remain:maintaining
national sovereignty/ regulating financial markets/benefiting from global capital
markets.Proposals:(1)rich states can improve norms of own financial markets;(2)can encourage
responsible creditor behaviour;(3)institutions must innovate.
Zanny Minton Beddoes "The International Financial System: Think Again" (16-27)Foreign Policy
No.116(Fall 99):-Economist's Washington economics correspondent argues against, qualifies,
or supports numerous widely-held views about a need for new global financial architecture: a
global market for capital does not yet exist; most just moves about. Allowing free capital
movement in and out of a country may stimulate economic growth, if action is not premature.
Recent emerging-market crashes are worse, but not more frequent, than before. Their
"contagion" is not always irrational. Most crises are caused by weak banking systems, helped
by lack of "due diligence" by foreign banks. Most ideas for new "global financial architecture"
ill-advised and/or politically unfeasible. Reforms should not concentrate on capital flows control;
at most dissuade short-term flows. A global central bank is unrealistic and imperfect. IMF merits
some criticism and "moral hazard" concerns, but bailouts are not to blame for international
economic crises, and few private investors escape lightly. Major lessons have been learned.
J.Marshall Beier & Steven Mataija edit. Cyberspace and Outer Space: Transitional Challenges
for Multilateral Verification in the 21st Century (Toronto: Centre for International and Security
Studies, York Univ. 97):-based on papers commissioned for/presented at 14th Annual Ottawa
NACD Verification Symposium, sponsored by Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and
International Trade. Titles of 21 Papers/ Chapters as follows: Keynote Address: Meeting the
Multilateral Proliferation Challenge Through United Nations Actions(Gustavo Zlauvinen);
(1)Where Are We Now; Where Are We Going in Arms Control?(Jonathan Dean);(2)The 1997
Multilateral Arms Control Agenda and ACDA Priorities(Thomas Graham, Jr.);(3)The Interface
Between Treaties and Regimes: Challenges for Evaluation, Verification, and Implementation
(Patricia Bliss McFate);(4)Significant Multilateral NACD Agreements: The Scope and Challenge
of Implementation(Richard Guthrie);(5)Multilateral Control Regimes: Diverse Purposes and
Congruent Processes(Gordon K. Vachon);(6)Non-Weaponisation of Space:An International
Imperative(F.R.(Ron)Cleminson);(7)Proliferation Challenges of Cyberspace(David Mussington);
(8)Information Revolution, Military and Arms Control(Jeffrey R. Cooper; Christopher Burton);
(9)Virtual Security: Technical Oversight, Simulated Foresight, and Political Blindspots in
Infosphere(James Der Derian);(10)Arms Control and Future of International Security(Brad
Roberts);(11)Verification: An Active Role for UN(Alan Crawford);(12)Aerial Surveillance in Sinai
Field Mission, Multinational Force and Observers, and UN Special Commission on Iraq: Issues
and Commonalities(Rene Unger);(13)Spaceborne Imagery: A Universal, Effective, and
Cost-Efficient Tool for Ongoing Monitoring and Verification(Phillip J.Baines);(14)Summary of
Results from 1996 Workshop on Use of Satellite Overhead Imagery in Verification(Peter
Stibrany);(15) "93+2"(IAEA)Critique(Jason Cameron);(16)Light Weapons: New Focus for Arms
Control and Disarmament(David DeClerq);(17)Russian Crisis and Prospects for Arms
Control(Sergei Plekanov);(18)Future Challenges for Multilateral Arms Control: A Case Study on
Korea(George Lindsay; Jim Bayer);(19)The Multilateral Dimension of'Korean Problem'(George
Lindsay);(20)Symposium Summary(Jacqueline Simon).Editorial Foreword offers brief outlines.
Fanny Benedetti & John L.Washburn "Drafting the International Criminal Court Treaty: Two
Years to Rome and an Afterword on the Rome Diplomatic Conference" Global Governance
Vol.5/No.1(Jan/Mar 99):-pending book on subject, should constitute definitive diplomatic history
of negotiation of what may well be seminal global treaty. Agreement to establish ICC legally
significant as move towards acceptance of global rule of law. Moreover Court's role to punish
perpetrators of globally-agreed-on heinous crimes if states do not take action may have
substantial political influence on national/international behaviour. Even negotiations set
precedents: e.g.direct/massive NGO participation; new voting alliances; tough tactics( "package"
rather than consensus decision-making);willingness to isolate US(see Wedgwood
op.cit.).Invaluable account of verycomplex UN processes.
A.LeRoy Bennett International Organizations: Principles and Issues(Englewood Cliffs: Prentice
Hall 91):-mostly on UN. Focus is on its philosophy and principles, not structure; breakdown is
by broad issue, not organization: League of Nations; Genesis of UN; Basic UN Principles,
Organization; Basic UN Issues;Peaceful Dispute Settlement; Collective Security and the
Alternatives; Justice Under Law; Regionalism; Arms Control; Transnationals and IOs; Economic
Welfare; Global Resources and the Environment ; Social Progress; Human Rights/Self-
Government; Administration/Leadership; the Future.
Samuel R.Berger"Foreign Policy for a Democratic President"Foreign Affairs Vol.83/No.3
(May/Jun 04):-aimed at those concerned about weaknesses in US foreign policy of Bush regime,
and needs/opportunities in modified policies of any Nov 04-elected Democratic(or amended)
regime. Most issues discussed of global relevance, and many stress US relations with foreign
entities, particularly NATO/UN/international law.This mentions those of global importance
discussed in some detail. US administration's "high-handed styleand its gratuitous
unilateralism" about its military, economic and cultural aims, embittered even those abroad
most likely to embrace US values. New US regime "no more urgent task than to restore...global
moral and political authority, so when we decide to act we can persuade others to join us.
Achievingreversal will require forging new strategic bargain with closest allies...Democratic
approach to |