Two Asian countries wary of international intervention are reeling from natural disasters. BBC took a striking look at the contrasting government responses to the Myanmar cyclone and the earthquake in China.
Both countries have denied foreign relief workers and journalists. But, the similarities between how Myanmar's military junta, and China's communist oligarchy are responding stop about there.
China's government is proving it intends to be swift, flexible, and open. It has scaled back Olympic torch events, and instituted a daily minute of silence. With its immediate and extensive relief effort, the government is sending the message that it is accountable for its citizens' well-being.
The Burmese government is stubbornly hesitant to accept outside assistance, despite the fact that they are desperately incapable of taking on the rescue mission. Aid is being randomly handed out, and the government is showing no signs of flexibility, going ahead with a constitutional referendum in the midst of the disaster.
China's wealth and strong infrastructure gives it an advantage to handling the rescue internally. But, do you think China's flexibility is a sign that it's becoming more open and accountable to its people? What can the outside world do to help, when a reclusive government doesn't want assistance? How much blame should a government take for the consequences of a natural disaster?
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Heavy questions. Before there was instant communications what did Nations or tribes or regions of people do? How was Pompeii handled? What could the government done differently? Why didn't they send in troops to move people out of harms' way? Where was the government in that crisis? Why didn't they have sirens to warn of the volcano eruption? Who is at fault? Caesar Bushus or whom?
Fast forward to Myanmar. I don't think the world knows enough about their infrastructure to be able to make good guesses as to what's going on inside that Country. We all have a viewpoint based on our personal experience, but I am sure the people of Myanmar have a totally different viewpoint on their lives and the world. And the junta wants it kept that way.
So what do Nations do to offer assistance? Do what we're doing. Let both Countries know we are available to assist ON THEIR TERMS. Even if we think it means that the Myanmar junta is going to keep the best food. They have hungry children, too. And if we offer them food and clothing and rebuilding supplies in the name of charity, and they misuse or abuse it, then the judgment falls on their shoulders. I don't think we should intend to give it to the 'ruling powers that be.' I believe we should have some sort of guarantee that the food will go to displaced persons, etc, and then if the junta takes it for themselves, WE did what was morally correct and THEY are responsible from that point in the distribution.
I don't think we can stand by and see children starving and not try to help. We ARE the USofA, after all.