Scholars, advocates, and activists seeking to make the U.S. a more responsible global partner.
Democracy & Governance
The U.S. and Chemical Weapons: No Leg to Stand On

The U.S. and Chemical Weapons: No Leg to Stand On

by | May 2, 2013

If, as alleged, the Syrian regime has used chemical weapons, it would indeed be a serious development, constituting a breach of the Geneva Protocol of 1925, one of the world’s most important disarmament treaties, which banned the use of chemical weapons. However, U.S. policy regarding chemical weapons has been so inconsistent and politicized that the United States is in no position to take leadership in response to any use of such weaponry by Syria.

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Washington’s Nuclear Hypocrisy

Washington’s Nuclear Hypocrisy

by | Apr 29, 2013

In April 2009, President Barack Obama gave hope to nuclear disarmament activists around the globe. Speaking in the Czech Republic, he affirmed “America’s commitment to seek the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons.” It was, and remains, the most laudable of objectives. Unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly difficult to believe that the president is truly committed to eliminating these terrifying weapons of mass destruction.

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An Agreement on Arms — With No Teeth

An Agreement on Arms — With No Teeth

by | Apr 3, 2013

Fearing the disruption of gun exports, the National Rifle Association vociferously opposed the Arms Trade Treaty that was approved on April 2 by the UN General Assembly. The joke, though, is not just on the NRA. While the treaty doesn’t do anything to affect American gun-owners, it’s so weak that it doesn’t seem to affect anybody at all.

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The Great Afghan Corruption Scam

by | Apr 2, 2013

Washington has vociferously denounced Afghan corruption as a major obstacle to the U.S. mission in Afghanistan. This has been widely reported. Only one crucial element is missing from this routine censure: a credible explanation of why American nation-building failed there. No wonder. To do so, the U.S. would have to denounce itself.

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