I consider myself someone who cares about other people in general. When I hear of an earthquake somewhere I am concerned for those affected. When I hear of conflict and war I hope and pray for an end to it, because I would not want the same fate to befall myself or a loved one. The world we live in today is riddled with all sorts of crises that can be prevented by the will of those who yield the power to do something about it.
Is it wrong for a nation to seek self interest first before seeking to protect the rights of his fellow man even though he may not be a country man. Is it ethical to do so? As I learn more about international relations I am disheartened by the level of aloofness that occurs in I.R. If a country holds no strategic importance it seems to be left to itself until there is some sort of public outcry. The conflict in Darfur has been going on for 5 years now and attention has steadily built up. Calls to end the genocide have been tentative on the diplomatic side due to the close relations the Sudanese government shares with the Chinese. The D.R Congo has been ignored somewhat until recent clashes in the East of Congo and Somalia is now a talking point because a tanker ship with $100 million worth of oil was hijacked. The country is hardly fit to be called a country with its lack of a set government and the war lord country has become breeding ground for pirates, criminals and many hungry people. I do commend those involved in relief efforts for their life saving work which certainly makes a huge difference.
As much as I may sound idealistic, I feel we do not do enough to help fellow countries in need, unless our hand is forced. Surely this can change, where there is a will, there is a way!
