U.N. Approves Military Action Against Iraq
In response to “U.S. Cozies Up to Law of Nations,” Column One, Nov. 27:
Perhaps a new era is dawning for world peace as a result of Hussein’s aggression. A new kind of respect for international law and the United Nations may be in the offing, but will the United States again become hypocritical when it is no longer expedient to ask for the world’s cooperation when we face another crisis?
As Anthony Day points out, in the past our attitude towards international law and the U.N. “ranged from indifference to hostility.” While most countries in the world have ratified treaties dealing with genocide, torture and other human rights violations, we have failed to take even minimum steps needed to fully participate in international forums.
The U.S. has failed to ratify international treaties dealing with these issues. And the Administration has not advanced any program to pay up our arrears in dues to the United Nations.
The gulf crisis has certainly made crystal clear the important role the United Nations can play in international matters. President Bush should now take steps to ensure we become full-fledged participants in the future of world peace through total involvement in this vital organization.
SANDY ELSTER, President, International Alert, Los Angeles
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
