In death lie new beginnings and with Muammar Qadafi confirmed to be no longer in the land of the living a new state structure is to be born. Unlike with the resignation of Mubarak when I shared a sense of euphoria with my Egyptian sisters and brothers the announcement of Qadafi's death filled me with... Continue Reading →
What’s In an Arab World
As the days of the Qadafi regime seem to be numbered all appears quiet in neighbouring Egypt to the east and Tunisia to the west. Meanwhile one of the nicest people in the Arab world who believe it is high time for a regime change after decades of brutal oppression are not getting any of... Continue Reading →
Sandbox Confusion
So the boys and a few girls from the broad coalition have decided that in order to protect the Libyan people, Qadafi really needs to go. Such bright sparks these wonderful diplomats are. Meanwhile the opposition forces on the ground are not doing too well as Qadafi's army is far better equipped than they are... Continue Reading →
War what is it good-a-for
So the Brits, among others, got themselves engaged in military action in North Africa. Although the decision to get involved was made rather selectively to say the least, non-action would have lead to an absolute massacre. Despite a broad coalition there are always those who don’t agree. Those who believe that the answer to the ‘why’ of any... Continue Reading →
The Language of War
When reporting on a conflict one can aim for neutrality, but it is considered very difficult to remain completely unbiased as we all know that one person’s freedom fighter is another person’s terrorist. In the case of Libya it has long been decided who the goodies and who the baddies are, but I have been... Continue Reading →
Sign o’ the Times
I guess it's hard to go through life and remain morally upright at all times. It might even be impossible. Afer having resided in the wilderness of international relations for decades, a few years ago Qadafi could be seen with the top dogs of world politics. He was no longer a pariah as the 'mad... Continue Reading →
What’s In a U-Turn
After more international condemnation and symbolic (in)action I am seriously wondering if the international community has lost the plot. Qadafi's assets have been frozen, which means he has no access to money previously growing fat on foreign bank accounts. The ICC has charged him with crimes against humanity and President Obama proclaimed in a speech... Continue Reading →
Tripoli Burning
And the Arab revolt continues. With all gone quiet on the Egyptian and Tunisian front- head of states have resigned but the very same people keep ruling the country- the focus shifted to the oil-rich sand box of Libya. While the country has turned into utter chaos, in which the colonel turns against his own... Continue Reading →