The following is an archived copy of a message sent to a Discussion List run by the Campaign Against Sanctions on Iraq.
Views expressed in this archived message are those of the author, not of the Campaign Against Sanctions on Iraq.
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As a member of AI (who is of the opinion that we have a duty to speak out against the human rights abuses brought about by sanctions), I do not share Philippa's analysis that current AI policy reflects any view the organisation may have about whether the Iraqi leader represents a threat to regional peace or to the state of Israel. AI is a human rights organisation which has no interest in the wider politics of war and/or invasion etc. It draws attention to cases of torture and politically motivated murder within a country because it is mandated to do so. Hence the undue attention that SH receives. Many of us believe that sanctions equate with torture and politically motivated murder and we are keen to change AI's mandate to enable it to include criticisms of sanctions. However, the process is a long one as most attempts at change usually are. It is, indeed, regrettable that the debate has even had to take place. It is worth remembering that AI draws its membership from a very wide base (including even those who believe that the death penalty has its place for certain crimes) and that the membership are the ones who control AI policy. People are right to criticise AI for its shortcomings, but it is disingenuous to suggest that the organisation is following a hidden agenda. I welcome the debate here about AI, but I think we should try and keep it constructive. The organisation is more than likely to prove itself a willing listener and a good learner. _______________________________________________ Sent via the discussion list of the Campaign Against Sanctions on Iraq. To unsubscribe, visit http://lists.casi.org.uk/mailman/listinfo/casi-discuss To contact the list manager, email casi-discuss-admin@lists.casi.org.uk All postings are archived on CASI's website: http://www.casi.org.uk