4/8/10: General Wesley Clark on MSNBC
General Wesley Clark on MSNBC
Posted by Kat |
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Last fall, along with Henrietta Fore, former administrator of USAID, and Suzanne DiMaggio, Director of Policy Studies at the Asia Society, I co-chaired a new Asia Society Task Force. This task force was convened with the sole purpose of providing more effective strategies for the United States regarding our relationship with Burma, one of the world's most authoritarian governments.
In the past, the United States has focused on policies of isolation and sanction, but these policies and strategies alone have done little to bring about the necessary changes in Burma.
Engaging with the Burmese government will not be easy, but the stakes are too high not to try. As it stands, 2,100 political prisoners are detained, along with pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi. For the first time in 20 years, Burma's military leaders are preparing to hold elections. However, while this seems like a step in the right direction, past precedent is not on the side of fair and inclusive elections.
The task force's conclusion is that the United States needs to position itself for the effects of Burma's potential transitions, while also encouraging the Burmese leadership to move in positive directions.
In order for the United States to begin this process, the task force recommends the following strategies:
- Engage with both Burma's leaders and groups within the country to encourage dialogue.
- Remove some non-economic sanctions that were initially designed to restrict official interactions between the governments and pursue the relaxation of official and unofficial bilateral communications.
- Further develop and expand direct assistance programs, including non-military NGOs. Assistance should also be targeted toward small farmers and small and medium-sized businesses.
- Expand educational exchange programs, such as the Fulbright and Humphrey Scholar programs.
- Collaborate with Burma's neighbors and the international community.
If Burma does not reduce political restrictions, institute economic reforms, and advance human rights, then targeted financial sanctions should be tightened.
While the extreme situation in Burma is not likely to change immediately, the task force's report provides a comprehensive approach for the United States that will help move Burma into the world community.
You can read the complete report by clicking here (PDF).
Sincerely,
Wes Clark
