The use of chemical weapons continues in Syria, as the international norm against their use crumbles through a lack of enforcement: For the third time in just two weeks, chemical weapons were reportedly used against civilians in northern Syria. The United Nations is investigating the most recent case, which came Wednesday when barrel bombs thought… Read More More Chemical Attacks in Syria Highlight Costs of Inaction
Muhammad Idrees Ahmad of the University of Stirling has an excellent article in Dissent on the importance of listening to what Syrians want and acknowledging the reality on the ground: If Syrians haven’t been heard, it’s not for lack of trying. There are compelling voices covering the conflict—reporting, analyzing, prescribing. All are ignored. Syrians want… Read More Listening to What Syrians Actually Want Instead of Assad’s Propaganda
A few days ago, Tim Kaine gave perhaps the best debut speech of any presidential running mate in recent history. He showed that he is a happy warrior who will fight for his deepest convictions while directly challenging his opponents, all without turning to the bile and hateful rhetoric that permeate American politics. In his… Read More Tim Kaine Talks ‘Faith, Family, and Work’ in Outstanding First Speech
The prospect of Donald Trump as President of the United States is the greatest threat to free democracy on the planet today. His consistent praise of dictators and refusal to condemn anti-democratic crackdowns should be troubling to anyone who supports the norms and institutions of American democracy. Would he curtail the freedom of the press?… Read More Donald Trump is a Threat to Free Democracy
Dr. Anne Stevens, the sister of Ambassador Chris Stevens, has served as a family spokesperson since his death. She’s had enough of irresponsible politicians and their allies politicizing her brother’s death: It is clear, in hindsight, that the facility was not sufficiently protected by the State Department and the Defense Department. But what was the… Read More Updated: Stop Using Chris Stevens’ Death for Political Gain
With the death of Elie Wiesel, the world has lost one of its great champions of human rights—an enemy of indifference, inaction, and impunity. Wiesel, who lived through the horrors of Nazi persecution, dedicated his life to the principle and aspiration ‘never again.’ He has helped to keep the memory of the Holocaust alive, when… Read More Elie Wiesel: A Hero for Our Times
British MP Jo Cox’s assassination has produced an outpouring of grief. It has also led many to praise her devotion to humanitarian causes and those suffering. US Ambassador to the UN Samantha Power spoke at a celebration of her life earlier today: Nobody was a stranger to Jo Cox. Survivors of rape, child soldiers, owners… Read More Jo Cox Championed Refugees, Syrians
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