The Egyptian people need our support now !
Beno Klee | 30.01.2011 21:57 | Anti-militarism | Repression | Social Struggles
In order to understand their reaction now, one has to know diplomatic language. Diplomatic language in moments of crisis can roughly be divided in 3 degrees. Degree one are statements like "We are concerned and please do something" (translated : we won't bother you too much and hope that the protests will soon finish, like Clinton now). Degree two is the freezing of diplomatic relations with measures like pulling back the ambassador (translated : "we are really mad", but after a lapse of time, in general, normal diplomatic relations are restored. An actual example is the freezing of diplomatic relations between The Netherlands and Iran after the murdering of Zahra Bahrami). Degree 3 comprises taking economic measures (varying between a little economic boycott and total economic boycott) as well as measures like blocking accounts, international arrest warrants , confiscating of air planes, travel restrictions for diplomats,...eventually internationally coordinated.
The actual diplomatic stand of Europe and the United States towards the Egyptian freedom revolt is one of grade 1, meaning "Mr Mubarak, we are concerned, but we will not bother you). When Labor Unions pronounce their support for the Egyptian freedom movement, without pushing their governments for tough diplomatic sanctions, they are hypocrite , because they know very well that only serious diplomatic pressure (blocking accounts, confiscating air planes, travel restrictions, economic sanctions ...) will bring something.
Additional to the lack of support from Western governments for the freedom movement, Maghreb and Mid East dictatorships will do everything to prevent a second Tunisia. You can be sure that the Egyptian military will swim in Petro Dollars when they squelch the freedom movement in blood..
That is why the Egyptian freedom movement needs our support right now. Only tough pressure from the West on Mubarak might save their fight. The key to their success lies with our governments. So we don't have to demonstrate in front of the Egyptian embassy, but in front of our parliaments and the head quarters of the ruling parties. The objective should be the implementation of diplomatic sanctions of degree 3.
The European Union and The United States have to demand the restoration of internet traffic, twitter, the cessation of censorship, the release of all political prisoners, the lifting of house arrests of opposition leaders, freedom of press and reunion, for President Mubarak to step down, and for the organization of free elections within a few months. This within 48 hours,, else diplomatic sanctions of degree 3 will be implemented.
Any other diplomatic language (unfortunately like the one expressed by Mrs Clinton) equals the approval of the suppression of the democratic movement.
The European Union and the United States, through their long lasting support for the Egyptian dictators, bear a huge guilt towards the Egyptian people. The time has come to make up...
Beno Klee
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