The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate cooperation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress, human rights, and achieving world peace.
Yet, amid the turmoil surrounding the controversial re-election of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in Iran, with protests erupting in Tehran, the forceful suppression of which continues to worsen (extending now to threats against media reporting), it is the leaders of the European Union that are taking a stand and speaking out. Vocal concern and opposition from Europe in stark contrast to the cautious response from the United States.
Obama's response: "I have deep concerns about the election... When I see violence directed at peaceful protestors, when I see peaceful dissent being suppressed, wherever that takes place, it is of concern to me and it's of concern to the American people."
As is pointed out in the WSJ article, Obama seems to be back-tracking from his recent statements in Cairo, where he committed to support "governments that reflect the will of the people." Now, in front of a different set of cameras, he is more concerned with not "meddling in Iranian elections."
Is this about the elections or is it about the Iranian people wanting the right to be heard in their "democracy?" Should the US be the leading voice against Iranian violent oppression? Maybe, but not doing so alone. The US needs to be one of many, including the leaders of Europe, who stand up for the rights and protection of the Iranian people and call for a fair and transparent election process. This brings up a lot of questions and frustrations concerning the mission and actions of the United Nations. Shouldn't the UN facilitate and lead cooperative action against oppression around the world? Shouldn't it be a collaborative effort with some teeth to enforce resolutions?
I don't think it's an exaggeration to see a similarity with another political protest that an authoritarian government tried to suppress.
I'm just saying...
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