Why the Arms Trade Treaty Won’t Be Bulletproof
Without participation from the United States and other major arms exporters, a treaty is unlikely to be comprehensive.
United Nations
Annan Calls for Syrian Contact Group, Including Iran
The Syria envoy’s latest diplomatic scheme is one that everyone can sign up for.
Arming of Syrian Opposition Likelier After Massacre
The United States are thinking about arming the Syrian opposition after the Houla massacre.
Violence Subdues in Syria, But Peace Plan Not in Place
The ceasefire has cut civilian casualties but Assad is still violating the Annan agreement.
Preconditions Not a Hopeful Sign for Nuclear Talks
To keep Iran sitting at the negotiating table, the Security Council must be willing to loosen its demands.
Kofi Annan’s Mission Impossible in Syria
International support for his peace plan is just as important for Kofi Annan as the plan itself.
Rice Rules Out Syrian Intervention, Then Doesn’t
The American ambassador to the United Nations said military action would only worsen the situation but didn’t rule it out.
France Aims to Erect Humanitarian Corridors in Syria
The French call for international action in order to allow food and medicine to reach civilians in Syria.
China, Russia Block Security Council Action Against Syria
A UN resolution urging Syrian president Bashar Assad to resign meets a double veto.
UN Recast Limits to Growth As “Planetary Boundaries”
There is only so many times you can cry wolf before people start to wonder whether disaster truly looms.
Russia Warns Syria Resolution “Path to Civil War”
Nearly everyone has deserted Bashar Assad but Russia. Why is the Kremlin standing by his side?
Palestinian UNESCO Bid Challenges US Engagement
Palestine’s successful entry into UNESCO foreshadows a confrontation between the United Nations and United States.
Rousseff’s Foreign Policy Follows in Lula’s Footsteps
The new president is likely to soldier on in the pragmatic fashion of her predecessor.
A Ray of Hope for the Palestinians
UN recognition will not end the Israeli occupation, but it could give the Palestinians more leverage in future talks.
The United Nations’ Obsession with Israel
Israel won’t care if the Palestinians attain recognition of statehood at the General Assembly.