Korean Peninsula Peace Strategy – The Unified Korea

November 29, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The recent skirmishes in the Korean Peninsula evolved into a deadly attack on the South Korean port Yeonpyeong.

According to the news reports – South Korea suffered casualties with two civilians and two marines killed in the North Korean firing forcing many residents to leave for the mainland.

Further the U.S and international news agencies also reported that prior to the attack, the North Korean authority and their ally China warned the United States to refrain from conducting military exercises with South Korea on the Yellow sea, the disputed territory between North and South Korea.

The joint naval drill on the economic route was characterized as ‘provocative’ by China and its key trading partner North Korea.

North Korean subsequent artillery response revived emotions among South Korean citizens affecting the latest diplomacy between the once unified nations.

Regardless of the military operation on the West sea of Korea, the North Korean action resulting in fatalities is reprehensible. The real victims in the avoidable quagmire are the South and North Korean population.

Simultaneously, it is important to highlight the missed opportunity following the former President Jimmy Carter visit to North Korea in September 2010.

The North Korean leadership’s unprecedented peace message through President Jimmy Carter requesting Washington to hold peace talks and Pyongyang eagerness to commit to de-nuclearization including permanent peace treaty with the United States and South Korea was not pursued leading to the status quo.

The urgency to move forward with the initiative was elaborated in the article titled:

‘Special Acknowledgment – President Jimmy Carter North Korea Visit’ published on this site on 09/20/10 under International Politics.

Had United States given North Korea the benefit of the doubt then it would have clarified Pyongyang’s sincerity or the lack there of considering the protocol through U.S. ex-President that emphasized serious and the highest possible communiqué even if it was not representative of the current administration.

It’s regrettable that invitation for peaceful dialogue is ignored fomenting military option as the preferred reaction to the twentieth century cold war generated political standoff.

When diplomacy is not the priority for the primary negotiator, it promotes belligerence accompanied by tragic loss of life as witnessed in the present discord.

Any attempts to salvage the situation in the aftermath appear disingenuous jeopardizing the trust factor among the participants expected to resolve the contentious issue.

After the Korean War (1950-1953) – the communist North Korea is a nuclear state with reportedly 8 to 12 nuclear arsenals in possession and preparing to strengthen its nuclear capability.

In April 2010, there were allegations against North Korea on the South Korean warship, the Cheonan drowning that claimed 46 sailors’ lives.

North Korea has exhibited missile stunts causing tensions in the Peninsula and now this time around the attack is detrimental to the humanitarian developments comprising South Korean food aid to North Korea notwithstanding tourism and trade relations benefiting both nations.

Similarly, South Korea and U.S. military activities foster hostility even though the defined purpose is stated as – restrain North Korea and remind its dependable partner China to intervene in the conflict to deter North Korean aggression.

China’s reluctance to comply with US demand is perceived as an act intended to protect national interests using North Korea to challenge United States in the multilateral entreaty.

It is clear from the existing situation that adversarial approach exacerbates the crisis with undesirable results such as deaths and destruction. There is tremendous display of power politics and self-interest contributing to the escalating turmoil in the region.

Evidently procrastination serves none except allowing North Korea to enhance nuclear armament leaving vast majority in abject poverty and isolation while South Korean citizens remain fearful and frustrated from the confrontation.

North Korea is extremely vulnerable despite the indicated nuclear proliferation and constant harassment of South Korea – the neighbor and trading partner. The impending power transition is yet another uncertainty in the political domain.

Therefore, North Korea could thrive from renouncing violence against the people of South Korea otherwise their relatives across the border. In all these years, the saber rattling is proved counterproductive and withheld economic progress.

Although both nations rely heavily on the external powers – i.e. Communist North Korea seeking China’s assistance and Capitalist South Korea dependent on the United States, they fail to recognize the fact that they could end the conflict today on their volition through bilateral peace treaty.

South Korea as a sovereign nation is at liberty to establish peace accord with North Korea irrespective of the international effort. The peaceful strategy would insure the democratic government pledge to improve security and reunite the families split across the border.

Hence, the reconciliation between the two nations could be aimed at the unification process with South Korean economy and North Korean defense power enabling a strong and prosperous Korea as one nation.

The achievement would be analogous to Germany – When the Berlin wall demolition facilitated the East and West Germany merger with significant advantage prevalent in the EU member.

Upon reunion with North Korea, South Korea could stimulate the domestic economy through local growth and consumption like China. The people in North Korea would at last be emancipated and become a valuable resource for the South Korean market economy.

North Korean military personnel would adequately address the national security concerns for the united Korea. It would be a phenomenal success for the people in terms of political stability, economic prosperity and social equality.

Tranquility in Korean peninsula would permeate to other parts of Asia and guarantee peace for all other nations in the continent.

North Korean commitment to nuclear disarmament could come to fruition in the course of constructive and meaningful engagement by the Korean leaderships.

In this context, the independent South Africa exemplified the smooth nuclear dismantling setting precedence for other nuclear powers to adopt ‘non-nuclear’ concept.

South Africa deserves praise for the monumental decision favoring humanity.

The nuclear free zone is the only effective policy for global peace and security.

North Korea peace offer could be directly presented to the people of South Korea and the deal finalized in good faith to demonstrate the leadership’s affirmation for solidarity yielding a unified Korea.

Sincere condolences to the South Korean families grieving for their deceased members and,

Best Wishes to North and South Korea for peaceful existence as one nation.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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G-20 Seoul Summit 2010

November 14, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The G-20 Summit was held in Seoul, South Korea on November 11 – 12, 2010.

Among many important economic issues, the trade imbalances and currency devaluation had drawn the representatives’ attention.

The two leading economies – U.S. and China expressed concerns over the respective trade surpluses and deficits attributed to currency management.

Likewise, the U.S. Federal Reserve proposal to interject $600 billion for economic revival expected to weaken the U.S. dollar while strengthening exports was met with resistance from competing trade partners such as China, Germany, United Kingdom, Brazil…citing the undue advantages to U.S. in the overseas export market.

It is well known that China has benefited from maintaining renminbi under market value boosting its trade to different nations especially the United States due to MFN and the primary creditor status.

Accordingly, China’s trade surplus would be different when evaluated in real market conditions.

If United States were to pursue similar trend with Federal Reserve intervention then both economic powers would essentially contribute to trade anomalies with their trading partners across the globe.

The arguments on both sides are valid in terms of the policy’s impact on the individual and global economy. Arguably the importing countries, developing nations in particular would be drastically affected with cheaper exports flooding their market giving rise to trade deficits and inflation.

Balance of trade between nations enhancing mutual economic prospects is critical in the competitive global environment.

Therefore, the G-20 leaders’ general agreement on this issue to move toward market determined exchange rate systems deterring currency devaluation and exchange rate or capital flow volatility is a sensitive measure in dealing with trade or currency related disputes.

United States as a consumer economy with Germany and China being the export economy is another contentious issue demanding necessary adjustments to the disproportionate trading activities.

Further, U.S. economic recovery is vital for the global market dependent upon U.S. consumerism and offshore capital investments.

The advanced economies could perhaps share the burden with the United States by allowing imports from low income countries and entry to US manufactured high end goods in return for their shipment to US shores.

At the same time, U.S. targeting the emerging and developing nations for exports has a greater responsibility in adopting fair trade practices rather than free trade impositions such as NAFTA, DR-CAFTA…that is proved to be devastating for the vulnerable population in these regions.

The globalization concept is conspicuously embraced at the meeting with pronounced commitment to reject protectionism.

Yet, the irony is the trade and currency wars prompting decisions to stimulate domestic growth through local demand and supply as stated by China as well as the industrialized nations’ fervor to compete for national productivity unequivocally confirms protectionism.

Since the globalization era, the government and business focus has shifted from their domain to international markets as experienced in the United States that led to the manufacturing sector demise eliminating blue collar jobs and ultimately having a ripple effect on other industries especially the small business economy.

Additionally, the globalization woes were not restricted to the alarming unemployment in the United States and elsewhere. The financial sector deregulation for over three decades resulted in the worst hedge fund mismanagement nearly bankrupting the interlinked economies in the prevalent globalization.

As for the struggling economies, globalization through treaties deprived agriculture and small scale industries survival witnessed in Haiti, Mexico, other parts of Latin America and Africa.

Globalization is effective when trading between nations promotes economic growth for all unlike the purely profit oriented corporatization of developing nations for cheap labor and natural resources that mostly benefits the big corporations wielding power on the political systems.

Hence, protecting the agriculture, SME (small and medium enterprises), independent entrepreneurships is crucial for realistic economic gains and in achieving the UN adopted Millennium Development Goals.

In this respect, the G-20 Financial Inclusion Action Plan, the Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion and a flexible SME Finance Framework providing increased access to financial services and expanding opportunities for poor households and SME is praiseworthy.

Simultaneously, the IMF and World Bank elaborate coordination in assisting the national and regional economies is an important step to mitigate disparities and alleviate vast majority suffering.

However, the G-20 assurance translated into action could significantly improve the economic standards of the rapidly deteriorating middle and low income groups in the global society.

The G-20 strategies for the finance industry with a new financial regulatory framework comprising instruments and practical tools to avert the repeat erroneous undertakings,

Notwithstanding the oversight and supervision amid several preventive adaptations with financial assistance is a formidable structural reform.

Besides the macro prudential plan on fiscal, monetary, economic and trade policy to expedite economic and job resurgence would be comprehensive in addressing the universal challenges emanating from the complex global transactions.

The debate on deficit control and economic stimulus programs reflected the stark contrast positions across the Atlantic with Europe’s preference to slash national debt through austerity and U.S. reliance on deficit spending.

Although both methods are relevant in debt reduction and economic growth acceleration, extreme measures are counterproductive with an inevitable setback in the desirable objectives.

Adopting moderate course to obtain steady growth and deficit decline would guarantee the anticipated outcome.

Poignantly, France pension legislation passed despite the overwhelming public disapproval based on the bill’s detrimental effects is representative of mandatory implementations without due diligence not to mention the utter disregard for the republic financial security and personal well-being.

France government action to safeguard the minority interest at the majority plight is a misplaced priority exacerbating rather than resolving the economic situation.

Unfortunately, now the U.S. Congressional Republican members’ pledge to replicate the French authorities’ act by attacking Social Security and prolonging retirement age signifies a pattern designed to reverse progress.

American citizens across the political spectrum have a moral obligation to defend the retirement savings through Social Security. The elected officials attempt to jeopardize the only reliable source of income would drive the economy to the point of no return.

Regarding climate change – The G-20 affirmation to safeguard the marine environment is notable but the unwillingness to renounce fossil fuel use poses an impediment in combating global warming.

The unanimous clean energy application throughout the world is the only alternative to life sustenance on the planet.

By and large, G-20 scope to limit risks in the financial sector, stabilize the global financial markets, build a job generating economy, narrow the development gap, eradicate corruption, facilitate modern infrastructure are among the impressive immediate aspirations.

G-20 future meetings could broaden the aspects by specifying the programs in fighting hunger and disease through food distribution and affordable health care at the national and global front.

The political and business leaders’ consortium to recognize failures and devise constructive policies is commendable at the G-20 Summit.

Cooperation and sincere involvement for greater good would enable the G-20 nations in delivering the promise to the world.

Good Luck and Best Wishes to the honorable world leaders in reaching the milestones on global peace and prosperity.

Congratulations! To South Korean leadership on the successful G-20 summit hosting.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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Special Acknowledgment – President Jimmy Carter North Korea Visit

September 20, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The Nobel Peace Laureate, President Jimmy Carter is renowned for great accomplishments prominently the long lasting Peace Accord between Egypt and Israel at Camp David during his Presidency and the magnificent work through the internationally acclaimed humanitarian organization – Habitat for Humanity providing relief to millions in many areas around the world.

As the founder of Habitat for Humanity, President Jimmy Carter has elevated the living standards and survival rate of the significant population across the globe.

President Jimmy Carter has voiced his legitimate concerns and demonstrated through actions the urgency to heed to rationality than ‘Super Power,’ mentality in foreign policy and environmental issues.

Recently, the former President visit to North Korea in releasing the innocent American citizen, 31 year old Aijalon Gomes from Boston, Massachusetts – is commendable and praiseworthy.

The victim was held prisoner and sentenced to eight years of hard labor in addition to being fined with $700,000 for trespassing and allegedly committing a “hostile act.”

President Jimmy Carter had not only been successful in the prisoner release but also reportedly sought peace message from Pyongyang.

The news excerpts are submitted below:
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Source: http://www.ktla.com/news/landing/ktla-jimmy-carter-korea,0,7025298.story“>http://www.ktla.com/news/landing/ktla-jimmy-carter-korea,0,7025298.story – Thank you.

Former President Jimmy Carter Aids in North Korea release of American Man:

North Korea’s state-run Korean Central News Agency reported Carter’s departure, saying the ex-leader apologized for Gomes’ actions.

The pardon “to set free the illegal entrant is a manifestation of (North Korea’s) humanitarianism and peace-loving policy,” KCNA said.
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Source: http://www.necn.com/09/15/10/Jimmy-Carter-hopes-prisoner-release-can-/landing.html?blockID=311298&feedID=4207 – Thank you.

(NECN) – Former President Jimmy Carter says he hopes the recent release of a Boston man held prisoner in North Korea can move peace talks forward with the country.

Carter says North Korean officials invited him to travel to there to discuss the release of Aijalon Gomes.

He says it took five months to get the trip cleared by the White House to free Gomes, who was sentenced to paying $700,000 and 8 years of hard labor.

Carter says he believes Gomes was treated humanely while he was being held for 7 months.

During his speech at the Carter Center, the former president also revealed that during his meeting with North Korean authorities, they repeatedly told him that they were interested in pursuing peace talks with other countries.

“They were eager to have peace talks that would lead to de-nuclearization of the peninsula,” he says, “and a permanent peace treaty with the United States and South Korea to replace the cease-fire that’s existed ever since I was a young submarine officer.”

Carter says that North Korean officials told him to bring a message back to Washington that they were interested in giving up their nuclear capability if the U.S., South Korea, Japan, and China were willing to negotiate with them.
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Peace Prospect with North Korea – By Padmini Arhant

It’s clear from the Ex-President Jimmy Carter’s visit and presentation at the Carter Center that;

Earnest peace and diplomacy can prevail over belligerence restoring normal relations between Washington and regimes that are permanently secluded with a possible nuclear threat and war games.

There is enough evidence that the peace talks held since the former Republican President Ronald Reagan era until now has failed to focus on peaceful resolutions. The failure in all these peace discussions could be attributed to exhibiting the military might via missile capabilities rather than exploring the peace prospects through economic, trade relationships, social and cultural exchange as witnessed in February 2008 when the New York Philharmonic Orchestra visited North Korea displaying glimpse of hope in Washington-Pyongyang relationship.

When the olive branch is extended for a long lasting and meaningful peace treaty, it provides a unique opportunity for the leaderships engaged in the decades old peninsula peace talks to capitulate and move forward with the dialogue directed at de-nuclearization and political transformation.

Pyongyang’s message through President Jimmy Carter is phenomenal seeking conciliatory response from Washington. There is no reason to procrastinate on the promising peace summit likely to produce the desirable outcome considering the details outlined to President Jimmy Carter.

Any reluctance or delay from Washington and others to the historic meeting would categorically reveal the forces against peace and their real agenda.

People in North and South Korea along with Japan have endured the tensions with the United States struggling to obtain the reliable consensus from China in the quartet sessions held thus far.

North Korean officials’ statement breaks conventional barriers offering a new dimension for nuclear disarmament and further determination among Washington, Japan and South Korea could lead to a political freedom in the domestic front besides ending the standoff between the once united Korea.

The decision remains with Washington in seizing the moment to help the long suffering North Korean people from abject poverty, economic and social progress due to political isolation.

Peace in the Korean peninsula would be monumental permeating to other oppressed regions.

Declining the peace offer would be detrimental to the United States image and President Barack Obama campaign pledge for “Hope and Change.”

Moreover, any hesitation to clinch the deal would confirm the true commitment or the lack thereof by the concerned parties especially Washington.

Above all, it serves as a litmus test for Pyongyang to prove that the defined goals are genuine and the leadership is sincere in the long overdue peace agreement.

Default from any or all negotiating partners would be catastrophic for the people in the peninsula emphasizing the leaderships’ inability and weakness in delivering a positive result.

President Jimmy Carter as an excellent peace emissary for the United States has once again brought the wonderful gift to humanity awaiting spontaneous acknowledgment from Washington.

Hopefully, President Barack Obama along with the remaining leaders in the quartet would enable success through fruitful negotiations and grant eternal peace to the people in the peninsula.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant


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International Events – India Independence Day

August 16, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Happy Independence Day to India on August 15, 2010.

India celebrated its 63rd anniversary amid stability and domestic crisis.

On the economic front, India is focused on GDP growth but struggling to contain food prices.

The inflation is contributing to the public anger and disappointment reflected in the national polls directed at the Central government.

Adding to the problem is the recent handling of the farmers’ plight in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. The State government’s slow response to the situation is criticized nonetheless; the damage control measures are being implemented possibly with the Central government intervention if required.

While being steadily progressive, the Indian economy has been challenged with inflation in some areas like food that is demanding immediate attention from both the public and private sector.

The government authorities, i.e. the Agricultural Ministry is under lot of pressure to act effectively in controlling the rising inflation.

Although, India is known to be fairly self-sufficient in staple food and other produces, the price surge could be attributed to natural and superficial factors. The nation has been dealing with extreme drought and floods in different parts of the country lately exacerbating the farmers’ uphill battle against the economic woes surrounding a good harvest.

Alternatively, the supply could be restricted by the various merchant groups involved in the distribution right down to the government authorized ration shops diverting the stock for private sale influencing the market rate. It’s not uncommon and the artificial price hikes surface during consistent demand superficially escalated with the short supply.

Further, cash crop exports to promote GDP could be halted and instead used for domestic consumption until the affordable market price is restored.

Perhaps, the government and private investigation into such practices could ease the burden on the economy, the farmers and the consumers. It would also help if the State and the Central governments address the farmers’ various agricultural issues to improve production.

National Security – The Indian government is confronted with security threats within the national territory mainly instigated by external forces.

The Naxalite and Maoist Groups with communist ideology have remained in opposition to the democratic Central and state governments regardless of political factions.

At present the tension is compounded with the new evidence reportedly involving the Pakistani ISI and Pakistan sheltered fugitive – the underworld don Dawood Ibrahim hiring the naxals to wage proxy war against the Indian security force.

Neighboring nuclear nations’ incited insurgency in the world’s largest democracy is an unnecessary provocation and deserves global condemnation.

While one is portrayed as the ‘ally’ in the war on terror and the other a ‘reliable,’ economic partner, the reality being neither appear to be committed in the respective domains,

For, the terror masterminds especially Osama Bin Laden and other chief militants are at large and yet to be revealed from the undisclosed locations in Pakistan,

The currency adjustments against the U.S. dollar by China still remains a contentious issue despite China’s assurance in adhering to the U.S. and international request at the Toronto G-20 summit.

Meanwhile, the Indian Government’s best strategy would be to initiate a dialogue with the insurgents i.e. the Naxalites and,

If the grievances are economic and social disparities related, then those anomalies could be appropriately fixed by providing the necessary means to the segments including minority representation in the parliament.

Concurrently, freezing the proxy war agents’ bank accounts and financial channels,

In addition to, tracing and terminating the rebels’ ammunition origin would deter the uprising and encourage peaceful negotiations.

The other matter pertains to Pakistan based militant group – Lashkar-e-Taiba instigated separatist movement in Kashmir.

Upon the State Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh including the cabinet ministers’ review of the secessionist proposal and call for peace in the valley with sincere offers to reconcile the differences, there was glimmering hope for amicable settlement in Kashmir.

However, the militants across the border aided by the terror groups and the Pakistan intelligence agency,

Ever determined to sabotage the Muslim population peaceful existence ignited a renewed unrest leading to loss of lives and curfew imposition in Kashmir.

It proves that the institution like a national intelligence agency traditionally responsible to defend and protect civilians from harm are unfortunately dedicated to counterproductive activities claiming innocent Muslim lives at their domicile and in the neighboring state.

Ironically, the Muslim population is attacked and killed more in Pakistan than anywhere else by the same terror groups that are behind the separatist movement misleading them for an independent state in Kashmir.

A persistent and persuasive peace talk is an ideal approach for the Indian leaderships in resolving the political and social disputes. It is guaranteed to provide a positive outcome.

Avoiding firearms and excessive tactics against unarmed civilians in any circumstances is favorable to all sides.

In other areas of interest –

Investments in green technology and robust environmental policy are crucial to protect the planet.

India could lead in the renewable energy use by adapting to natural sources rather than fossil fuel or nuclear resource. Given the suitable weather conditions, India would highly benefit in providing cost effective energy programs to all.

Alleviating the suffering in hunger, poverty and disease among the vast majority would enhance development.

Completing infrastructure projects within time frame is better for business opportunities and national image.

Otherwise, India’s achievements since independence is exemplified in the status quo as an emerging economy, thriving secular democracy, innovator in science and technology and a cultural phenomenon to say the least.

Best Wishes to the Republic of India for a long lasting peace, eternal progress and prosperity.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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Republic of Cuba in the Twenty First Century

July 23, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The Caribbean nation has been through many political and social challenges in the past three centuries. Beginning with colonization leading to revolutions, military coups and the unfortunate communist rule prevalent until today, the 11 million Cuban population continues to suffer in silence without any hope on the horizon.

From the Cuban revolution, Bay of Pigs invasion to Cuban Missile crisis and Guantanamo bay, Cuba has remained a significant Latin American nation.

With the political system modeled after the former Soviet Union and China the three nations’ paradoxical images in the new millennium are striking.

China as a Communist nation is regarded the emerging economic power with extraordinary privileges prominently – permanent membership at the U.N. Security Council, ‘Most Favored Nation’ status renewed regardless of the Republican or Democratic administrations at the White House. China is also a WTO, G-20 and ASEAN member.

Russia shares equivalent position with China among the international community and currently has the United States endorsement for WTO membership at the Toronto G-20 meeting held in June 2010.

Cuba, on the other hand is isolated with various sanctions particularly the economic embargo crippling the island nation in the Western Hemisphere.

Under the previous U.S. administration, there were restrictions on foreign remittances and travel by the Cuban expatriates. However, President Barack Obama reversed it in 2009 along with the resolution adopted in June last year to end the exclusion of Cuba from OAS (Organization of American States). Cuban leaders apparently expressed their lack of enthusiasm in the OAS readmission.

Cuba’s isolation is attributed to the appalling human rights abuse from the international standpoint and nationally the political oppression combined with the state controlled failed economic policies having a drastic impact on the once prosperous middle class in the society are the reasons considered for the Cuban exodus.

The parallels and the ironies between Cuba and other nations in this context are noteworthy.

Haiti – Another Caribbean nation and Cuba’s neighbor on the east was systematically deprived of self-sustenance and economic success during the currently exiled democratically elected President Jean Bertrand Aristide due to the U.S. imposition on Haiti to allow imported crops over the national rice production and other consumer goods resulting in Haiti’s status quo.

Whereas Cuba as a Communist authority holds direct control over two-thirds of the economy with the private sector functioning under federal governance on capital investments approval to hiring policy and wage distribution.

With the exception of public education and universal health care, the state’s macro management of the economy proved to be inefficient on various accounts such as food rationing and inadequate housing for the growing urban population.

Cuba is reported to have found large oil reserves through the environmentally devastating “oil exploration” in North Cuba Basin.

It’s time for nations to realize that the planet sustenance is dependent upon the clean renewable energy resources viz. solar, wind, bio-fuel, hydrothermal projects. Pursuing other sources despite the catastrophic damages to the economy and the environment is denying reality.

On Cuba’s foreign relations – Strong ties with China and Venezuela in the aftermath of the Soviet Union collapse seemingly eased the economic sanctions impact.

National health care in Cuba guarantee free medical aid to all in the rural and urban areas.

Therefore, the infant mortality rate and maternal care are either comparable or better than some developed countries.

The trade embargo affecting the core services like the health care facilities is reportedly deficient in latest medical equipments, drugs and essential supplies undermining the expected standards.

Mandatory education at the basic and higher levels including vocational training appears to be beneficial for Cuba with the highest per capita medical personnel available to serve within and outside the country.

Notably, Cuba is acknowledged for the medical professional help in the disaster relief programs – witnessed recently to Haiti earthquake victims.

Human rights violation is not uncommon in any form of government. If not towards the majority, it is often directed against the minority or the ethnic groups in a society.

Arguably, the repressive governments’ conspicuous abuse of power against their nationals is well known.

Cuba is believed to rank only second to the People’s Republic of China in the imprisonment of journalists voicing their concern against government agenda.

Per Wikipedia.org – Thank you.

“The Cuban government has been accused of numerous human rights abuses including torture, arbitrary imprisonment, unfair trials, and extrajudicial executions (a.k.a. “El Paredón”).

The Human Rights Watch alleges that the government “represses nearly all forms of political dissent” and that “Cubans are systematically denied basic rights to free expression, association, assembly, privacy, movement, and due process of law”.

Cuba was the second biggest prison in the world for journalists in 2008, second only to the People’s Republic of China, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), an international NGO.

As a result of computer ownership bans, computer ownership rates are among the world’s lowest.

Right to use Internet is granted only to selected people and these selected people are monitored.

Connecting to the Internet illegally can lead to a five-year prison sentence.

Cuban dissidents face arrests and imprisonment.

In the 1990s, Human Rights reported that Cuba’s extensive prison system, one of the largest in Latin America, consists of some 40 maximum-security prisons, 30 minimum-security prisons, and over 200 work camps.

According to Human Rights Watch, political prisoners, along with the rest of Cuba’s prison population, are confined to jails with substandard and unhealthy conditions.

Citizens cannot leave or return to Cuba without first obtaining official permission.”

Upon viewing the economic and political conditions in Cuba, it’s clear that the real beneficiaries in the economies under authoritarian rule and the democracies run by Corporations are not the average citizens, instead the ‘selective-powerful’ focused on self-interest rather than national interest.

Yet another irony is the statehood declaration as the “Republic” –

Whether it’s Republic of Cuba, Republic of North Korea, Islamic Republic of Iran, or People’s Republic of China and those not truly representative of the republic in the electoral and legislative process confirm the connotation.

A nation’s progress is measured by the political freedom, economic opportunities and social equality.

All are born to be free and economic prosperity in the absence of freedom is life without a purpose.

In the twenty first century, the people of Cuba and others facing persecution for their freedom quest deserve international support.

Liberty especially the freedom of expression is the inalienable human right.

Leadership is honorable when committed to celebrating life and not suppressing it.

Democracy is imminent with a bright future for the people of Cuba.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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G-8 and G-20, 2010 Summit – Toronto, Canada

June 27, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

A warm welcome to the world leaders attending the back to back G-8 and G-20, 2010 summit in Toronto, Canada.

The G-8 summit held on Friday, June 25, 2010 appeared to focus on the common economic issues such as financial regulations, deficit reduction and economic aid to disadvantaged countries on the financial side.

International peace and security – the leaders’ discussions are expansive from Iran’s controversial nuclear program, disarmament of North Korea, war in Afghanistan, Pakistan including the tensions in the Middle East.

Also in the agenda is the African leaders outreach on economic progress.

Social issues are related to protecting women’s health viz. maternal well being and infant growth in the regions lacking in antenatal care.

It’s important to begin with the financial sector and the economy for this topic.

Congratulations! To President Barack Obama, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority leader Harry Reid and the Congress members for the bipartisan votes in the long overdue financial reform.

It’s a major milestone and a fresh beginning to avert future financial crisis responsible for the global economic meltdown with spiraling effects on the housing, credit and job market.

Other industrialized nations like Germany passed their financial regulation with a mandatory deficit reduction. The constitutional amendment by Germany to contain the deficit to 0.35 percent of GDP by 2016 provided the higher deficit not attributed to GDP decline is a trendsetter in curbing the economic recession.

Similarly, the United Kingdom, Japan and the hard hit economies with huge deficits are in the process of clamping down on the national debt through fiscal austerity and tax hikes.

The deficit reduction is the popular stance among the member nations in this summit.

Although, containing national debt is an immediate priority, the measures to achieve the desirable goal needs to be balanced, so that the vulnerable population like children, senior citizens and the people with disabilities or life threatening conditions are not deprived of basic services from the targeted spending cuts.

Maintenance of social services and programs availed by the citizens across the spectrum would prevent the inevitable outcome – For the elimination would lead to unsustainable economic costs impacting health, education, housing, consumer spending, states’ emergency units – fire and police departments.

Notwithstanding the potential increase in domestic crime rate that had been relatively low nationwide.

Likewise, raising taxes on health and environmentally harmful sources is a place to start due to the dual cause. It would protect the people and the habitat while generating revenue to pay off the accumulated debt.

In the United States, the legislation aimed at economic revival and federal aid to the states for essential programs is challenged by the opposition minority based on their national debt concern.

It’s a legitimate reason but the disapproval is directed at the nerve center of the society.

By denying unemployment benefits to the laid off workers and,

Blocking federal aid to the states is an erroneous decision. States’ employment would be affected leading to massive retrenchment resulting in tax revenue losses.

Already, some states have furlough hurting many American families. In addition, the states offer lifeline support to many contributing back to the system via taxes as wage earners and consumers.

Despite the reality, the ‘Nay’ vote defies logic.

There are ways to pay for these bills by reallocating the unutilized funds in defense spending and pet projects. Moreover, there cannot be anything significant than helping the workers survive and enable them to be gainfully employed yielding tax payments.

Ignoring citizens’ plight has much higher economic and political ramifications.

Therefore, the stimulus bills with guaranteed tax returns are the means to expedite economic recovery.

Since globalization is embraced as the twenty first century economic policy, the anomalies in the system beckon the world leaders’ attention.

There is an urgency to implement international labor and environmental laws binding on transnational corporations to safeguard the environment and the workers’ interest against exploitation, negligence including fair and equal compensation regardless of territories.

Even though, the child labor is banned in some developing nations, the practice is widespread in the desperate parts of the world often engaged by the established multinational companies from the industrialized nations.

Stringent strategies against financial investment firms’ speculative activities that led the Greece and the neighboring economies to the brink of collapse are quintessential in the sweeping financial overhaul.

Some have addressed the problem by enforcing strict rules on the ‘derivatives’ and hedge fund mismanagement in the financial reform. However, the global standard would strengthen the application.

Currency adjustments by the emerging economic power creating trade imbalance and subsequently influencing the rising deficit financed by the creditor is yet another matter to resolve in the present meeting.

Tax havens and withholding income from offshore investments by corporations are impediments to the struggling economies irrespective of stature. Again, cooperation from the G-20 partners facilitating such activities is to be sought on this occasion.

Clean energy to free mankind from fossil fuel and nuclear technology is crucial to replace the discriminatory civilian nuclear program paving way for nuclear proliferation.

Global terrorism and security – Coordinating with international intelligence agencies as opposed to militarization or deploying military personnel on espionage to collect information is a serious violation of the respective nations’ sovereignty. The clandestine military operation is bound to exacerbate the insurgency in the volatile regions forcing the local population to favor the militants reluctantly against the infiltrators.

The article titled “U.S. Military Espionage – Directive for Global Operation,” May 30, 2010 highlighting the inherent dangers of the provocative activities, was presented under the “National and Global Security,” category on this website for further understanding.

International Peace Agreements – Unanimous condemnation of Iran and North Korea nuclear capabilities and belligerent displays against neighbors is a positive step.

Similarly it should be extended to allies violating human rights through illegal invasion and occupation of land, prominently Israel and China viewed by the international community as the U.S and Europe’s ‘turn a blind eye,’ foreign policy.

Actions are effective and meaningful when they are universal and not selective in the enforcement.

Other nations like Thailand cracking down on civilian population with military might in public square deserve international isolation for successfully thwarting the democratic uprising against abuse of power.

Democracy has become a token political system undermined by excessive military involvement and constitutional monarchy as seen in Thailand.

Burma/Myanmar belongs to the league in brutality against its citizens by the military junta reportedly occupied with the nuclear activity.

Worldwide nuclear disarmament is the course to pursue for global peace.

In other humanitarian issues – whether it is women’s rights, social justice or dealing with hunger, poverty and disease, they are all related to the political power governing the nations.

United States, EU, United Nations, Arab countries and emerging economic powers have a decisive role in promoting democracy, peace, human rights, economic and social progress by remaining impartial and committed towards the noble mission.

Best Wishes to G-8 and G-20 nations attending the 2010 summit.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Economy | Leave a Comment 

Kyrgyzstan – Ethnic Cleansing

June 18, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The Central Asian nation, Kyrgyzstan bordering Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and China is home to 5.2 million ethnically diverse population with the Kyrgyz being the majority followed by the Uzbeks and other distinct groups in the society.

Recent ethnic violence where an estimated 400,000 is reportedly displaced having fled their homes with the Uzbek men, women and children targeted primarily between the two communities in the clashes that erupted from a political unrest back in April 2010.

Reflecting on the events then, the economic crisis and the energy prices combined with political corruption contributed to the massive public protest initially centered at the nation’s capital, Bishkek. It seemingly became widespread with casualties rising among the protesters and the riot police.

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev’s crackdown on independent news network, print press and websites information about the former administration’s alleged corruption scandal had angered the people and created more tension.

Subsequently, President Kurmanbek Bakiyev headed for Osh in South Kyrgyzstan and forced to resign by the opposition that had assumed power in the aftermath of the political uprising.

Meanwhile, the fallout between President Bakiyev and Kremlin on the Manas Air Base lease extension to the U.S. and NATO for the Afghan war logistic operation claimed to have expedited his ouster.

Accordingly it’s reported that “Vice-Chairman of the State Duma of Russia Vladimir Zhirinovsky stated that the United States was involved in events in Kyrgyzstan to gain control of Manas Air Base.”

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev is currently exiled in Belarus and implicated in the ethnic cleansing by the Kyrgyz government.

Juxtaposed, the Uzbeks accused the security forces for instigating the Kyrgyz mobs in the slaughtering, physical abuse, sexual assault of pregnant women and girls as young as 12.

The allegations are denied by the Kyrgyz military in the south contrary to the evidence.

Based on the facts and international eyewitness report, the innocent civilians are paying the price for the political crisis that has exploded into a violent humanitarian disaster.

As usual, neither the deposed nor the interim government is prepared to accept responsibility for the massacre suffered more by the Uzbeks leading to retaliation against the Kyrgyz, setting the nation for a civil war.

It’s imperative for the interim government led by the Kyrgyz leader, Roza Otunbayeva to restore law and order, rein in on the bloodshed and unite the country rather than letting it fall apart.

Any political power is legitimate only when it is capable of providing equal security and protection to all citizens regardless by maintaining the democratic system in governance.

Given the Kyrgyzstan history, the solidarity among various ethnic groups and tribes are quintessential for national stability and economic success. In fact, the Kyrgyzstan flag is symbolic of the unity between forty tribes and the red color embracing the southern region.

The killings and brutality against ethnic Uzbeks is deplorable and must cease at all costs. Similarly, attacks against Kyrgyz are equally reprehensible and the authorities in power not precluding the ousted President Bakiyev are accountable for the deteriorating situation.

Peaceful settlement of the political discord is a priority to save lives. Kyrgyz and Uzbeks are the citizens of Kyrgyzstan. Senseless conflict aimed at particular ethnic group annihilation or that of one another leads nowhere except self-inflicted grief and pain.

Truce between the fighting groups is paramount to avoid further escalation of violence.

Otherwise, there will be none left on either sides due to the political authorities’ quest for power superseding the urgency to promote national harmony.

Kyrgyzstan being strategically important to United States and Russia for their respective goals, the political influence impacts the sovereignty and threatens the ruling government’s viability.

Kyrgyz and Uzbeks reconciliation is dependent upon the political leadership’s resolve and commitment to unify them, besides responding to the desperate economic needs.

There is tremendous hope for peace to prevail upon mutual recognition to respect one another as human beings and Kyrgyzstan nationals.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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Euro Crisis and Impact on Global Financial Markets

May 27, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

It originated in Iceland with the pervasive subprime mortgage factor and similarly affected other economies like Ireland, Greece, Portugal and Spain, referenced as PIGS.

Although, every nation in this category share the contaminated ‘derivative’ traded internationally, the lack of deficit control with the national budget exceeding the GDP growth also contributed to the meltdown and subsequently reflected in the poor credit rating.

More prominently, Greece identified with:

“Goldman Sachs between the years 1998-2009 has been reported to systematically helped the Greek government to mask its national true debt facts.

In September 2009 though, Goldman Sachs among others, created a special Credit Default Swap (CDS) index for the cover of high-risk national debt of Greece. This led the interest-rates of Greek national bonds to a very high level, leading the Greek economy very close to bankruptcy in March 2010.”

The culmination of internal and external mismanagement primarily led the Mediterranean economy to the brink of collapse seeking bailout from the European Central Bank (ECB), EU and IMF.

European Union was challenged with a predicament in the Greece bailout to either ignore the problem or address it to avert the contagion in Europe.

Since Greece is an EU member using the reserve currency euro in the 16 of the 27 states representing the eurozone, the former alternative would have had serious ramifications.

Besides, the euro being the second most traded currency in the world after the U.S. dollar; it has multifaceted impact on the financial markets dealing with high volume trading especially in the futures exchange.

The industrialized and emerging economies are in a bind with the euro value reduction, due to the competitiveness expansion in export trade. For example, the export oriented Germany is at a competitive edge with the United States, Japan and China irrespective of Germany specializing in high end industrial and heavy machinery equipments.

Hence, the euro crisis upside is the European nations gaining export affordability.

Accordingly, the emerging economy and the major U.S. creditor China is concerned about the potential split in global market share and availing the opportunity to reject the U.S. request for currency (renminbi) value adjustment, which has been set below the market determination despite China’s extraordinary trade surplus.

China’s currency, renminbi (RMB) or yuan (CNY) has been withheld from floating as the international currency in the foreign exchange market to protect the status quo.

At the same time, the positive aspect of the dollar appreciation is omitted in the evaluation and that being the foreign investments in U.S. dollars particularly the Treasury bills held by China is strengthened in value and guarantee long term security in futures contract.

Financial stability measures adopted by EU, IMF and ECB with approximately one trillion dollars of which a conditional rescue loan worth $110 billion to Greece is approved to reverse the negatives in the financial markets reacting to the euro downslide from the unsustainable government debts and deficit level.

Had the eurozone requirement on its union members to keep deficits below 3 percent of GDP maintained, Greece and other struggling economies need not have been subject to harsh austerity strategies that has resulted in protest among the mainstream population in Greece and Ireland.

Regardless, the current global financial crisis calls for wasteful expenditure elimination and the national budget review to direct investments in high value returns.

Appropriate actions involving tax hikes and spending cuts are necessary to balance the budget.

However, spending cuts targeting the fundamental programs inevitably generating revenues through productive workforce and consumers is counteractive.

Restoring essential programs and services for the job creation and preservation, youth education, citizens’ health care, social security, safe and clean environment nurture healthy and middle class society to ease the burden on the top 1% or 10% wealthy taxpayers in different economies.

Most importantly, the defense budget consuming a significant proportion of taxpayer revenue in the prolonged wars could be divested to peaceful and profitable opportunities benefiting the citizens at the domestic and international front.

The ideal solution for the European Commission and the monetary union to avoid rising deficits in Europe without compromising the member states’ sovereignty in their national fiscal policy decisions would be to establish an independent, non-partisan committee by the states to examine the individual spending and tax plan, rather than the centralized monitoring or the neighboring authority verifying it.

Further, the constitutional amendment by Germany to contain the deficit to 0.35 percent of GDP by 2016 provided the higher deficit not attributed to GDP decline is a trendsetter in curbing the economic crisis.

In concurrence with the economic experts’ advice – The ECB expediting the credit approval on government bonds used as collateral upon qualifying the self-regulated constitutional limit on deficits is prudent in deterring broad speculative lending activities.

Alongside, the EU sweeping financial reform with tough standards against the hedge fund managers including the two proposals by German Parliament:

Global financial transaction tax and Financial activity tax focused on CEO’s Personal Income & Bonuses are effective steps with the exception of the global financial transaction tax because it is eventually transferred to the end-consumer and may not be a viable option for all participants.

Nevertheless, international agreement on financial regulation by G-20 and other nations is crucial in order to emerge from the existing crisis and prevent the future economic recession.

The systemic risk in the multi trillion dollars ‘derivatives,’ that caused the financial debacle in Europe, Middle East (Dubai), North America, Asia and elsewhere demands stringent policies and independent investigations on fraudulent ventures.

The financial overhaul passed by the U.S. Senate last week has been under scrutiny by analysts with mixed response and elaborated in the article titled:

“New Financial rules might not prevent next crisis – Associated Press, Sun May 23rd. 2010 at 3.55 PM EDT. Reported by Jacobs from New York and contributed by AP writer Jim Drinkard.”

Unequivocally, closing the loopholes as detailed in the cited article and other reports is paramount to establish a financial system free of K street influence.

The apparent revolving-door relationship between Wall Street and Capitol Hill in which employees and consultants have moved in and out of high level US Government positions, with the prevalent conflict of interest is a hindrance to any legislation.

Only the electorates with the voting power in a democracy can remove the persisting obstacles by rejecting the special interest representatives in politics against meaningful legislation.

People as the consumers, taxpayers and voters are the ultimate force in achieving the progress for common good.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Business | Leave a Comment 

Environment – The Green Revolution

May 3, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The two major disasters in the energy fields viz. the West Virginia coal mine explosion killing at least 25 miners and the gulf oil spill with 11 workers presumed dead is a great tragedy for the victims’ family,

Notwithstanding the catastrophic impact on the environment along with the economic costs involved in rescue operation of the species and the cleaning required in protecting life and livelihood.

As stated earlier through numerous environment articles on this website, no matter how vigorously the energy independence is debated claiming the “offshore drilling,” “clean coal technology,” and “nuclear power,” as the reliable energy resources,

The inherent danger to the workforce and the habitat from these sources cannot be underestimated for it is repeatedly proved through these horrific mishaps.

The catchphrase – ‘Drill baby drill,’ ‘drill now – offshore,’ and every other area with liquid gold, regardless of the consequences is the myopic view driving the global energy quest endangering life on planet.

Already the several accidents in the related sectors have been responsible for the irreversible outcome producing loss of human life and rare species extinction.

In addition, it has created huge environmental hazards as well as economic liabilities that are shared nationally.

Although, the general awareness to these issues are much better today than earlier, when important event like ‘Earth Day,’ and treaty such as ‘Kyoto Protocol,’ could not convince the leading polluters to acknowledge the devastations on the habitat.

At the same time, Global warming still remains contentious and discarded as a ‘myth,’ despite the extreme weather conditions causing famine, floods, tsunami, typhoon, tornadoes exacerbated by frequent earthquakes etc.,

The COP15 Copenhagen summit attended by 192 countries and more failed to arrive at a consensus due to politics prevailing over pragmatism.

Unfortunately, the lack of cooperation during the unique gathering is a lost opportunity with serious ramifications on all, but suffered most by the vulnerable regions in the world.

However, the 2010 U.N. climate conference in Mexico City is yet another occasion for the international community to make a firm commitment and diligently implement the universal climate policy in an effort to reverse the environmental degradation.

Meanwhile, every nation is indebted to the future generation in saving the habitat by passing the effective climate change legislations sooner than later to prevent different adversities.

In terms of renewable energy, it’s time to embrace the risk free solar, wind, hydro projects in conjunction with bio-fuels as the preferred power suppliers.

The recent ‘Cape Wind Project’ – Approved “to build the first offshore wind farm in the United States off the coast of Massachusetts in Nantucket Sound,” is a fabulous beginning to the safe and clean energy endeavor.

Likewise, the other options using the pure natural elements are the gateway to promoting energy diversity, while considering measures for energy conservation and economic viability.

Understandably, the United States has a tough battle in the climate bill legislation with the energy behemoths’ investments in lobbying to maintain the status quo irrespective of the periodical deadly incidents.

Unless the energy companies recognize the urgent need to pursue the common goal in carbon reduction and pioneer technology using solar, wind, hydrothermal, bio-fuels…the climate bill comprising the offshore drilling, coal and uranium mining would continue to offset the targets in containing the greenhouse gas emission.

Self-sufficiency in energy is not necessarily derived from oil and mine explorations. On the contrary, the cost/benefit ratio proves otherwise.

The energy industry is in denial if the latest casualties in the coalmine explosion and oil spilling, the health problems from harmful uranium exposure were not accepted as the activities detrimental to life, environment and the economy.

Similar occurrences in Nigeria, China and Chernobyl nuclear meltdown are few other examples that confirm the reality when seeking the energy alternatives.

Increasing energy demand from the developing nations – Brazil, India and China have generated the surge in fossil fuel and uranium enrichment, although these emerging economies are simultaneously engaged in the solar, wind, biodiesel and hydrothermal energy.

China has achieved prominence in environmental programs, besides importing coal from Australia, oil through dealings with Iran and Sudan, natural gas from Burma to supplement the domestic fossil fuel deficiency.

Perhaps, they could be the model in the twenty first century by adopting the absolute clean energy rather than the hybrid choice that allows for the fossil fuel and nuclear power procurement.

Global initiative to preserve the environment is encouraging.

Nevertheless, the concept of recycling and energy saving techniques is not widespread to realize the gains.

Farming and Agriculture – Genetically modified produces are more available and lot cheaper than the organic food grown with natural fertilizers.

Healthy meals are costlier than the high caloric, cholesterol rich and fatty food items.

It should be the other way around to cultivate healthy eating habits and prolong life.

Clothing – Natural fiber as opposed to synthetic, nylon and polyester fabric are eco-friendly and nonallergenic.

The pervasive knowledge and determination to save the planet is vital and made possible with individual decision influencing the entire mass in a chain reaction.

Planet survival and sustenance is dependent upon the inhabitants’ consolidated contributions.

Mother Nature is holistic and thrives in harmony.

The green revolution is the secret to success.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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Health Care Scandal – Apocalyptic Forecast

April 28, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Despite the candid presentation with facts and figures on the scandalous ‘Health Care reform,’ the issue is evaded with nonsensical representations by sources benefiting from the monumental fraud.

Perhaps, the notion among the authorities is the public have to be content with the policy that is unequivocally detrimental to the citizens interest, regardless of this being a life and death matter and,

Ignore the apocalyptic event arising from it – particularly with respect to,

The cost/value determination showing a significant rise in national deficit at $35 trillion for the period 2010-2019, without the much-acclaimed insurance coverage for the 34 million uninsured.

Details made available in the articles:

Health Care Reform – A National Scam – April 25, 2010.

Health Care Reform – Facts and Flaws – April 23, 2010,

Health Care Legislation Amendment – April 22, 2010 and

Thorough analysis of the components reveals the legislation is industry favored with the vulnerable population subject to predatory practices, otherwise the status quo extension granting exclusive rights to the private sector with an utter disregard for the public health and national debt.

Rejecting the legislation amendment call is a dangerous precedence in a democracy not to mention the constitutional breach, the latest trend in the abuse of power.

There is more chilling evidence that beckons unanimous action on the national debt.

According to the Washington Post article – April 27, 2010

Panel to meet on skyrocketing U.S. debt

If no action is taken, forecasters see fiscal crisis by decade’s end

By Lori Montgomery, Washington Post – Thank you.

Washington – A presidential commission will convene today at the White House to address what leaders of both parties agree is one of the greatest threats to the country’s economic future:

“The rising national debt.”

Official forecasts suggest that without sharp changes in federal spending or tax collections, the United States could enter into a downward spiral of indebtedness that by the end of this decade would erode the country’s ability to educate its children, care for the elderly or mount a robust national defense.

Republicans and Democrats alike say the fiscal challenges have been too long ignored.

But with the two parties feuding over health care reform, Wall Street regulation and a host of other issues – and the economy still uncertain after a deep recession – there is considerable doubt that they could join hands to fend off a still distant potential crisis.

“It would take a miracle,” agreed Senate Majority Whip Richard Durbin, D-Ill.

But “I believe in miracles.”

Durbin is the highest-ranking lawmaker among a dozen members of Congress on the commission, which also includes six presidential appointees.

The panel has until Dec. 1 to devise a plan to stop a federal borrowing binge that exploded during the recent recession and will only get worse as retiring baby boomers tap into federal retirement programs.

The gulf between the two parties is vast.

No budget commission has managed to spur action since 1983.

And a host of interest groups is lining up to rally the public against any solution that involves higher taxes or cuts to favored programs – particularly Social Security, which members of both parties consider the ripest target for compromise.

Even supporters of the commission are not optimistic:

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md, a vocal advocate, said the most he expects is,

“A good message with regard to the magnitude of the problem.”

But panel members from both parties say the experience of Greece, deeply in debt and begging other countries to help pay its bills, provides a vivid incentive to set aside ideological differences and work together.

“After stopping a terrorist with a weapon of mass destruction, this is the single most important issue we confront as a nation,”

Said Sen. Judd Gregg, R-N.H., a commission member.

That crisis seemed distant until the recession hit, causing tax collections to tank and federal spending to increase as policymakers scrambled to avert an economic collapse.

The public debt is forecast to rise from less than 40 percent of the economy to more than 60 percent by the end of this year, its highest level since 1952.

The debt will hit 90 percent by 2020 under President Obama’s budget, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, a level last seen in the aftermath of World War II.”
————————————————————————————————–

Grim Reality – By Padmini Arhant

It’s clear from the above WP article and the health care legislation costing $35 trillion for the decade 2010 -2019 under the private for profit health care with 34 million uninsured until 2020,

The United States fiscal crisis is a looming national and global financial disaster.

Failure to amend the health care legislation is a kamikaze action on behalf of those in power unwilling to acknowledge the inevitable catastrophe under the guise of health care reform.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce not surprisingly, considers the public option or the Universal Medicare disruptive in their televised forum on April 26, 2010.

Not long ago, their key representative proudly claimed to have influenced the Supreme Court decision in the ‘Citizens united vs. Federal Election Commission.’

With the cosmetic measures in the health care bill, the legislation is essentially a jackpot for the insurance industry due to the mandatory insurance purchase through federal aid and the regulation lapse extending beyond the decade.

Legislations espousing special interests’ agenda is not a revelation.

However, the ‘Hope and Change,’ campaign pledge was meant to transcend the culture in Washington through transparency and accountability, a misnomer at the political helm.

Continuation on this path projects the dismal economic conditions for the United States, similar to Greece forced to rely on external rescue for solvency.

There is an exception to the United States situation.

Unlike Greece, the United States shares the ‘Too big to fail,’ status and the major creditor China would be susceptible to the precipitous fall,

Notwithstanding the clichéd ramifications on the world financial markets.

CBO’s proclamation on the U.S. debt expected to hit 90 percent by 2020 under the current administration’s budget is not merely a national affair but an international calamity, seeking universal attention.

United States borrowings absorbing 90 percent of the national GDP with revenue on the decline and increase in federal spending is unsustainable.

The economic collapse that was averted in 2009 is effectively created through irresponsible legislations viz. the health care bill designed to escalate the national deficit.

National health care legislation was absolutely necessary to save lives starting immediately.

But not to promote the prospects for the flourishing insurance and the health care industry.

Medicare for all citizens with 24/7 access alongside the private insurance for the high end market as elaborated in the article Universal Medicare – Single Payer System, April 8, 2010, on this website is the ideal and the only viable solution to national health care apart from containing the national debt.

Since Medicare is already established, the cost control and the Medicare expansion to all citizens is no longer a request but a requirement.

Why would the authority in Power lead the nation to the ‘Death Valley’ and refuse to provide valid explanation on this bizarre decision that has been made into law?

Citizens’ disapproval and peaceful (non-violent) protest against the industry favored, private for profit health care is the only hope for democracy to survive.

As for those defending the health care bill and defying the burgeoning national debt from it are in denial.

Remaining complacent to the private for profit health care law at $35 trillion dollars in the absence of universal coverage is a huge burden on the baby boomers and the future taxpayers.

Perhaps, the self-realization that their tax dollars are transformed into the industry’s extravagant bonuses in the ‘business as usual’ environment could change their position and prompt them to be part of the solution rather than the problem.

National debt and valuable health care are inter-related and the health care law exacerbates both issues through preference for profit and politics over people.

The citizens action demanding ‘Universal Medicare’ with 24/7 access by health care bill amendment is imperative to protect life and the democratic system.

It’s incumbent upon the administration to do the needful for the nation or step down graciously.

Democracy is alive when the government of the people stands by the people and delivers for the people.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Ethics | 1 Comment 

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