Women's Rights// A Global Issue

This morning I was going through the news sites and came across a story about a 12-year-old girl, Elham Mahdi, who died from internal bleeding (due to rape) 3 days after being married to a man estimated to be more than twice her age. Though the story is being overshadowed by the successes of the US Nuclear Summit, it is a story that is all too common in the world and one which illustrates the continuing problems women and young girls face cross culturally.

Yemen has become somewhat of a poster-child for Women's Empowerment when in 2008 a 10-year-old Nujood Ali, being raped and beaten, escaped from her husbands house to a courthouse where she sat on a bench demanding that her marriage be dissolved (she succeeded). Underage marriage in Yemen is a large problem where it is estimated that one third of all women are married before the age of 18.

I have written about womens issues in past blogs (see post) as it is a very important subject to me. There are a host of problems in both developed and under-developed countries which contribute to the abuse of women and girls. There are many examples of oppression (sex trafficking, prostitution, rape, incest, physical abuse, emotional abuse, underage marriage, media image, etc.) still existing without any signs of instance reduction. I feel it's important to keep this at the forefront of our thought process when considering cosmopolitical ideals.

Many times (as in Yemen) women are looked at as a burden, both economically and morally. Woman's root (especially in Judaeo-Christian beliefs) is that of sin, temptation, and weakness. One who is weak and foolish.  Is there anything more inhumane and degrading to the human experience than this?

One of the problems (in my opinion a large contributing factor) we face in women's empowerment is a continued patriarchal system of male domination which essentially destroys the Woman and makes her a secondary citizen. Many religions and indeed social institutions (though not all) see the roll of woman to be that of mother; raising boys to be leaders and girls to be mothers who will in turn raise boys to be leaders and girls to be mothers, etc. It's a cycle that continues and is only defeated through education and legislation.

Imagine a world in which girls and boys are raised side by side to be empowered to become that which they choose. To set before them a banquet of opportunity for learning, art, science, sport, business, politics, etc. To feed them encouragement and to teach them respect of all sexes, people, and places. A super-conscious generation of cosmopolites that work together to bring about progress for humanity. Imagine what that would be like...

Here are a couple of links to get started::

http://www.globalissues.org/article/166/womens-rights (Information)

http://www.saynotoviolence.org/ (Action)

by Shadna Aten

New Moral Ground// President Obama on Torture Policies and Unlawful Detention

The following is a clip from this morning's speech given by President Obama at the National Archives in Washington DC. In effect it is a response to the voices of opposition who seek to justify the atrocities of torture and demonize the cause of human rights and justice.

by Shadna Aten

Voice on Liberty// Freedom of Movement

The United States of America, a nation built by foreign hands on the principals of freedom and basic human rights, stands upon the brink of moral desolation due to the abandonment of these ideals for ones of fear and nationalism.  

We, who have come from a diverse history of societies oppressed, turned to a new world that would allow us refuge, safety, and independence. No longer would we submit ourselves to be shut off from our government, our society and our world. We took the power of our conscience and will and used it as a hammer against these walls, formed by those in elite positions, which strived to  separate, isolate, and oppress. We became and continue to be united in the belief that all of us are born with rights that are not dictated by man but, rather by laws natural and inalienable.  In this we own a cosmopolitan ideal that is upheld by our Constitution, Declaration of Independance, and Democratic form of government. The rights to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness.

However, since September 11th, 2001 we seem to be straying from this form of thought as we begin to create metaphysical and psychological walls that seperate us from the rest of the world. These walls are being built up out of fear of our national security and are solidified by a silent racism that plagues our nation and threatens to destroy our society.  This is hardly anything new, but something that we must seek to stop in order to create a world of peace and progress.  

During the past two years there has been talk of taking our metaphysical walls and turning them into a physical wall that separates the US from Mexico.  Not only does this violate the rights of all individuals but, during the same two years no such wall has been proposed for Canada.  This shows a clear contention towards the "brown" and favoritism of the "white".  The reasons are beyond logic and are diametrically opposed to our national ideals. I propose that not only is discourse on this topic colorist but it is also traitorous to our nation and our morals. Though this topic may seem taboo, at least one observer sees a vital roll that it plays in moving toward perpetual peace in the US and throughout the world.

The discussion began shortly after the attacks and were echoed during the 2007-2008 election process.  The 2,000 mile border between Mexico and the US allows millions of "illegal" (if such a term can be justifiably coined) aliens to cross from Mexico into the US each year.  The fear is that this could allow terrorists to enter our country and infiltrate our security.  This can easily be said to be a false reason, as the same could be true to the North where we border Canada. In comparison, our Northern border is over 5,500 miles long.  This is nearly triple the length of our Southern border.  This 5,500 mile stretch  is without walls and has a much smaller border patrol.  The reason for this is that the income disparity between Canadians and Americans is not a large margin as Mexicans and Americans. In fact Canadians and Americans are very similar and cause little border activity for migrant workers.  Whereas, standard Mexican wages are only a tenth of standard American wages.

Now, with these elements in mind, let us assume that one is in the act of infiltrating our nation in an effort to expose our weaknesses. It would make more sense for any intelligent organization to do so from the north and not the south. However, we don't deal with intelligent organizations of terrorists, rather we deal with super-intelligent organizations that are more likely to enter the country legally or to convert people already living here.

This leaves us with only one logical conclusion, that our "fear of terrorism" is being manipulated to further the progression of colorism/racism in the US.  Should this be allowed? I certainly do not think so.  Especially when we apply this in Cosmopolitan terms. 

The perfect example of freedom to movement is seen here in the US.  We are a country of 50 Individual and Independent States which allow all Americans and all visitors/aliens freedom to move throughout all 50 States without opposition, fear of loss of jobs, fear of invasion, fear of corruption, fear of terrorism, etc. One can easily walk, run, drive, fly, or bike from one state to another without any hinderance. In fact, it would be quite difficult to create a progressive and peaceful nation without this freedom. 

Let us go beyond our borders (if you are reading from the US) and take the example of the EU. It is on a path that is similar to that of the United States however, much more ambitious and expansive thus, ultimately more influential. It's implementation, though somewhat limited, of Freedom of Movement among it's national inhabitants has created an economic power that is able to participate and compete in the global arena and offers it's citizens the opportunity of advancement and freedom that was previously unavailable to them. It creates greater unity and has an effect of perpetual peace among them.  

Of course, the reality is that we are living in a world of aggression and competition.  We do have threats that are very real to our citizens and to our freedoms. It is often difficult to distinguish where the line is drawn and how to perpetuate peaceful growth.  However, we can take our morals and apply them fully to each situation thus giving us some direction to how far we can go in any direction without abandoning the process of peace. In this instance, let us remember the importance of deconstructing walls and reconstructing freedom.

by Shadna Aten

Eye on the Middle East// Peace and Apartheid

Eight  days of destruction, pain and violence have re-opened old wounds and have hurt the progress of peace in a highly volatile region of the world.  This all done in the name of peace, protection and progress.  As we see the reaction from the Arab world and the UN, I have to wonder how this will achieve any of those ends? Just turn on your TV and look at the news. You can see a growing tide of anger and outrage directed towards the Israeli government that won't be dissipated with neither the violent ousting of Hamas nor the violence against civilians that are already refugees in their own land.

The situation in Israel is and has always been dire.  The history of the land and the right to claim it by Palestine and Israel is marred by violence, prejudice and power. This dark history and the actions of the Hamas terror group leaves us with very few, if any, peaceful solutions. 

Though the path to peace is difficult and is often times violently opposed, I am inclined to follow the path that Fmr. President Jimmy Carter mapped out in his book, "Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid". In it he goes over a process that is very Kantian, cosmopolitan and ethical as it honors sovereignty of Nations, States, Religions, and People.  In it he goes over several steps that need to be taken in order to bring peace to the region.  The following is a bit of that mixed with my own opinions and vision for peace.

The first step that needs to be made is for the United States to take a roll that is un-biased and neutral.  Our allegiance to one side makes it difficult, if not impossible, to bring both parties to the table and to negotiate peace.  Currently, we are not seen as mediator or negotiator.  We are seen as a friend and as a foe to each respective side.  This continuance of opposition and support will only strengthen the resolve of those whom are already hostile to Israel and the United States.

I presume that the above brings into the mind of the reader a suspicion of support to the terrorist activities of Hamas. So, let me be clear; I do not recognize any hostile government as legitimate in the world of cosmopolitanism. Hamas is a terrorist group that has risen to power in a small area of the world that continues to seek to create havoc and disregard of the value of human life.  It is suicidal to the progress of the Arab World and needs to be dealt with so that peace can resume. 

Another problem that we face is the illegal occupation of Arab Territory by the nation of Israel. Israel imposes embargos, tariffs, and taxes upon people and lands of which they have no legitimate claim.  This continues to create distrust and aggression. Which leads me to the next step we should encourage and expect for perpetual peace, giving back the land that belongs to the Arabs as set forth in the 1947 UN Partition Plan. 

It is clear that so long as Israel occupies, controls trade, taxes and ports they will be met with aggression.  Understandably, Israel has taken control of these lands as they have needed it in the pursuit of protecting their citizens and their right to national sovereignty.  This was especially necessary in the early development of the nation of Israel.  However, the occupation now is much more of a liability and a justification for aggression by Hamas and other terrorist groups. Therefore, it is proposed that Israel (along with the international community) works with the PLO to give it the power necessary to remove Hamas from the Gaza strip and to dispel the organization all together. 

This starts with returning all control of the designated West Bank to the PLO and ends with the return of all Arab lands to the rightful owners.  The action would show the Arab Nations that we are willing to live peacefully and to the benefit of all so long as those neighbors are willing to work towards the same.  This would also show that we don't negotiate with terror groups and that we believe in free and open societies.

Finally, with Israel in a position of dominance and control of lands, it should be simple for them to stop the weapons from entering the Gaza Strip without having to attack. This is especially true if the governments of Jordan, Egypt and the US participate in the process.

However, it's now difficult to see any progress with this attack on a city filled with innocent that are being unnecessarily wounded and killed.  This action will have a very negative fallout and most likely result in the rise of more terrorism and aggression from those most affected by it.  As they say, if murder begats murder...  when will it end?

by Shadna Aten

Students of Peace// Naropa University Blog

The CosmoPolitician is pleased to announce a new blog being created by the students of Naropa University. The site (NaropaPax.wordpress.com) will be focusing on the Peace Studies program at the University as well as providing insights by the students & faculty on current and past issues relating to global peace. It promises to be an intriguing blog full of fascinating view points and one that we will be checking in on often.

Human Rights// Re-Envisioning

"...to promote respect for these rights and freedoms and by progressive measures, national and international, to secure their universal and effective recognition and observance..." - Preamble to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)

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As a first generation Austrian-American who's ancestry is inextricably linked to the terror of the Third Reich, the atrocities of the Holocaust and the universal costs of World War II I am very aware of the fragile state that human beings find themselves in with regards to the protection of their rights. Along with this history is my present which has made me all too familiar with the nearly unlimited power of leaders, corruption of government, complacency of people, ignorance of the masses, and the dangers of prejudice.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was composed in response to the horrific human rights abuses and genocidal acts discovered in the aftermath of World War II. It was created by leaders of nations that value human dignity, life, and global peace to make certain that these acts would never again be a mark of disgrace upon us and that we would make it our first priority, our foundation, for united global political action. As such it has become the most important document ever created in the history of humanity as never before were the rights of human beings extended to all occupants of the earth regardless of borders, religion, government, skin color, or gender.

60 years have passed and as we look back on our history in search of improvement, of progress towards this sacred goal of equality and protection, it is unfortunate that we are not left unspotted from failure. Rwanda, the Former Yugoslavia, China, Chechnya, Armenia, Cambodia, torture and the treatment of POW's, along with the violation of women's rights throughout the world leaves a mark upon us that will never be washed away. Even today we still have yet to save the people of Darfur whom face violation of these universal rights and are being tortured, raped and genocidally exterminated by governments which we all are linked to.

If anything, this document is a touchstone by which we grade our actions and the effectiveness of our governments and our people for the past 60 years. Have we achieved peace? Do we value the rights of human beings regardless of geographic, religious, or political boundaries? Have we protected human beings to our fullest ability? How have we failed? How have we succeed? How will we act?

In my life I have seen the amazing power that comes from the resolve of one nation, one people, one organization, one ideal, one person for good or for evil. Though we are witnesses to terrible destruction, we can also be witness to incredible creation. It is from this ability to create that progress comes. And it is from progress that the inspiration of our humanity flows. Looking ahead to the next 60 years let us build on that which was created as a foundation for human progress, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

by Shadna Aten

On the 60th Anniversary of the UDHR//

I am pleased to join together with millions of others as we celebrate the 60^th anniversary of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights. As people fortunate enough to have been born or adopted into a nation of affluence with access to the rights to political participation it is an honor to carry out the duty to give voice to those who are in a less fortunate position—the victims of systemic global injustice.  As we reflect on and turn our attention to the common human values of full dignity and equality we must acknowledge that though our words are a powerful starting point, words alone cannot sustain human rights. 

We want to celebrate this day as a day of achievement but as we look at the world as it is, it is obvious that our words lack the force of sustained and united action.  How can we say that human dignity exists while 18 million members of the human family die each year due to lack of secure access to food, clean water, adequate shelter, and minimal medical care?  How can we say that human equality is flourishing while women and girls comprise 70% of the world’s poor, over 60% of those who are not taught to read and write, and are systematically blocked from political participation and full human status within the family.

Too often we take refuge in ignorance overlooking these facts or—when noticed—attributing them to local causes and cultural difference.  Yet, is it not our common values, the values of freedom from hunger, oppression, and discrimination, the freedoms of expression, autonomy, and fellowship, that overcame any differences 60 years ago and united the people of the world beneath the banner of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?  This commonality is greater than any difference. We all—humanity—share a common past and we share a common future that is greater than any manufactured difference.  Today let us unite under this commonality and make the last 60 years of normative ideals into a practical reality.  Let us take our knowledge and transform it into wisdom and our wisdom into action.  

by Lynette E. Sieger