Volume VIII Issue V
INSIDE FOCUS On Nuclear Deals
March 2015
Death of Putin Critic Raises Controversy Matthew Schaller Staff Writer
PAGE 6&7 INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Snowden Return; ISIS in Africa Page 2
Maduro on mayoral arrest; Regional Struggle Reaches Sri Lanka Page 3
DIPLOMACY NEWS Panel on US-Cuba-Vatican Relations; Dr. Zheng Wang Page 4
SHU Lobbies Congress; Dr. Youssef Mahmoud Page 5
Chaos in Syria; Putin Critic Death; World News Recap Page 10
Opinion End Anti-Semitism in Europe; Netanyahu Address to Congress Page 8
Japan’s Military Force; Solution to Climate Change Page 9
Looking Ahead
Cara Richardson; Hans Fly Page 11
Words from Abroad Avonelle Davis; Angelo Piro Page 12
Flowers placed in memory of Nemtsov at the site where he was fatally shot on February 27.
Photos courtesy of Flickr
Syrian Conflict Persists After Four Years Halimah Elmariah Staff Writer
March 15 marked the four year anniversary of the unfulfilled Syrian Revolution, inspired by the Arab Spring to overthrow dictator, Bashar Al Assad, and to call for political and social reforms. The anti-government protests escalated into a brutal civil war when opposition supporters gained arms to defend themselves against police and military forces, who were killing peaceful protestors. Opposition supporters began fighting for control of the capital, Damascus, and for other cities, according to the BBC. Four years later, the future of Syria is bleaker than ever with the death toll climbing to 220,000, according to the United Nations. Roughly 1.5 million Syrians are internally displaced, and nearly 4 million have become refugees, making Syrians the second largest refugee population in the world after Palestinians, reports the U.N.
The Guardian writes that an entire population is “growing up displaced and uneducated,” referring to UNICEF report that concluded 2.6 million children haven’t been to school in almost 4 years. The flood of refugees fleeing from the war-torn country have burdened the infrastructure of neighboring countries like Lebanon, which also houses Palestinian refugees and where 1 in 5 residents is a refugee, writes The New York Times. Syria’s public infrastructure has also experienced a major blow as a result of the intensifying civil war. Al Jazeera English reports that at least 1 million homes have been demolished, almost 4,000 schools have been destroyed, and at least 30% of hospitals have been eradicated. These deteriorating living conditions have made life harder for Syrians, who already do not have access to basic humanitarian needs. The Syrian Centre for Policy Research, with the support of
the UNDP and UNRWA, conducted a report on the civil war and found that life expectancy in Syria has dropped by more than 20 years due to violence and the destruction of the country’s infrastructure. An investigation into alleged human rights violations conducted by a U.N. commission of inquiry accused both parties, the Assad regime and rebel fighters of committing war crimes, including rape, torture, and enforced disappearances, writes the BBC. In August of 2013, the Assad regime was accused by Western powers of employing chemical weapons; however, Russia and the Syrian regime blamed the rebels, according to the New York Times. In 2014, a mission led by the U.N. and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), destroyed the Syrian regime’s chemical weapons after the U.S. threatened the Assad regime with military intervention, BBC reported.
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On February 27, 2015, an unidentified attacker from a vehicle shot former Deputy Prime Minister and leading opposition politician, Boris Nemtsov, as he was crossing a bridge, in view of the Kremlin. Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the killing and stated that he would assume “personal control” of the investigation by checking in periodically with police chiefs assigned to the case. However, despite trawling through Mr. Nemtsov’s flat for evidence and searching Moscow for the getaway vehicle, Russian police are, in the past, less successful when it comes to identifying and prosecuting the masterminds. For example, in 2006, investigative journalist Anna Politkovskaya was gunned down in central Moscow. The shooters were brought to trial, but the masterminds have yet to be found, according to CNN. Accustomed to the nature of corruption, these cases have little credibility as police can be easily bought by the ruling elite of Russia. Due to a flawed Russian police force, the motives for the killing of Nemtsov will most likely remain a mystery shrouded by theories, according to The Guardian. The Russian Investigative Committee, however was quick to jump to conclusions about Nemstov’s death. It stated that numerous motives were being considered, including Islamic extremism and Nemtsov’s links to Ukraine, according to ABC News. According to Vladimir Markin, head of the committee, the murder could have been a move “aimed at destabilizing the country” by “those who do not shun anything to reach their political gains.”
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March 2015 Page 2
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Edward Snowden May Face Justice in the U.S. Ryan Sullivan
Editor-in-Chief, Online
Edward Snowden, the man who became the most infamous and, in certain communities, one of the most celebrated whistleblowers in American history, may soon repatriate to face the U.S. justice system. The former NSA contractor made headlines in June of 2013 when he began giving journalists an unprecedented amount of documents regarding the U.S. global surveillance program that was initiated after 9/11. The Obama administration, who pledged to be the most transparent administration in American history has also been the administration that has prosecuted the largest number of whistleblowers in American history, according to the Huff-
ington Post. U.S. governmental officials have been adamant in their requests for Snowden to return home to the United States where he faces charges under the 1917 Espionage Act, including unauthorized communication of national defense information and “willful communication of classified communications intelligence information to an unauthorized person,” the Wall Street Journal reported. For nearly two years now, Snowden has found himself in a rather tenuous situation. He has been living in Moscow where he was granted asylum. In August 2014, Snowden was granted a three year residency permit. As his time dims down he will have to decide what his next step will be. On March 3, Anatoly Kucherena, one of Mr. Snowden’s attorneys, told press
in Moscow, “Edward Snowden is ready to return to the U.S., but on the condition that he be given guarantees to receive a fair and impartial trial.” The announcement of Mr. Edward’s intentions also comes at a pivotal point. On February 22, over thirty million people watched the Oscars, where “Citizenfour,” a film documenting the events of Edward Snowden’s decision to become a whistleblower, was a nominee for best documentary. Coming into the Oscars, the film had already won several awards at various film festivals around the world and was the heavy favorite. Unsurprising to most, the documentary ended up capturing the Oscar. Laura Poitras, the director of the film, was one of the first journalists whom Snowden contacted when he decided to
go public. Poitras did not respond initially to Snowden, thinking it was a hoax and ended up brushing off the young NSA official. Snowden later went to Glenn Greenwald, a National Security reporter for The Guardian. Poitars ended up going to Hong Kong with Greenwald where she documented the following events on film. In her acceptance speech, she stated the following: “The disclosures of Edward Snowden don’t only expose a threat to our privacy but to our democracy itself. When the decisions that rule us are taken in secret we lose the power to control and govern ourselves.” On March 3, General David Petraeus, former Commander of International Security Assistances Forces in Afghanistan and most recently Director
of the CIA, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges after an infamous case where he confided classified information to his biographer and lover, Paula Broadwell. The documents Petraeus handed over were from military “black books,” which held information on war strategy, covert officer and intelligence capabilities. At the same time, leakers from several U.S. departments are also facing decades in jail. The Snowden camp is taking necessary steps to initiate a legal defense where it can use these latest events to help ensure a lighter sentence for Mr. Snowden and hold true to the beliefs which Snowden has continued to stand by: that whistleblowers should not be afraid to come out of the dark. Contact Ryan Sullivan at ryan.sullivan5@student.shu.edu.
Egypt Rebuts ISIS Expansion in Africa Emily Balan
Layout & Copy Editor
On February 15, around 20 Egyptian Coptic Christian workers were shown to be beheaded on a Libyan beach in an Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) propaganda video. Egypt responded with airstrikes over ISIS camps in Libya starting February 16, according to CNN. On February 16, Derna, a town on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea and near the Egyptian border, was taken as the first stronghold of ISIS forces in Libya. On February 20, three simultaneous suicide car bomb blasts killed at least 30 people and injured more than 40 others in Gobba, Libya, according to CNN. ISIS is quickly spreading throughout the unstable state, with violent ISIS activity in Gobba happening almost 150 miles away from the first city completely taken under ISIS forces just four days earlier. Wilayat al-Barqa, the Libyan branch of ISIS, is a jihadist terrorist group whose goals are to rid the world of Western influence and establish an Islamic
caliphate starting in Iraq and Syria. Most recently in mid-March, the U.S.-declared terrorist group Boko Haram in northern Nigeria officially allied themselves with ISIS. As ISIS spreads internationally, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi called for an “international intervention,” urged “capable countries” to fight the extremist threat, and said Muslim countries in particular should “stand up” to spearhead the fight, according to BBC and Fox News. “We have to admit that terrorism is now a major threat not only to Egypt or even the immediate region, but it is a threat to the stability and security of the whole world,” the Egyptian leader said, speaking in an interview with Fox News. “We can also see that the map of terrorism and extremism is expanding, it is not recessing.” Egypt’s position on ISIS could prove to be a major blow to the spread of ISIS in Africa. Although ISIS has gotten their foot firmly placed in the door of Libya, Egypt’s military capabilities, alleged cooperation with the Libyan government,
and attitude toward the conflict is such that it will take more than a couple of car bombs and beheadings to take Libya, though the possibility is alarming. African Egypt is one of the major countries spear-heading the fight against ISIS forces, but they are not alone. Other states in the region have denounced the group and seek to dismantle their jihadist operation in favor of non-violence. Some European countries are also backing the fight against ISIS. Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi supported Egypt’s call for the “international intervention.” Egypt has also engaged France in a 5.2 billion euro military defense deal to fight ISIS, according to Egyptian Streets, an Egyptian publication. “Our two countries are pursuing a common struggle against terrorism,” said Jean Yves Le Drian, France’s Minster of Defense, to Egyptian Streets. The CIA estimated the Islamic State to maintain approximately 31,500 members. However, according to a senior Iraqi Kurdish leader, as reported in Independent.co.uk, their forces
Map of north Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
should be estimated closer to 200,000 members due to their simultaneous attacks in Syria and Iraq. The group continues to extend its influence and recruit more jihadists every day in many places of the world. ISIS recruits teenagers from Western countries, like the English-accented alleged-executioner ‘Jihadi John,’ and has accepted a pledge of allegiance by other extremist jihadist groups, like Boko Haram in Nigeria. Not only is the religious extremist group controlling areas of Iraq and Syria in the Middle East, but they are gaining power in Africa as well. King Abdullah of Jordan called on Muslim countries to lead the fight against ISIS, according to NBC.
Courtesy of Shoebut.com
After the executions of a Jordanian pilot, masses of Jordan citizens supported their government’s decision to declare war on ISIS, starting with air strikes over Syria in early February, according to CNN. The Iraqi and Syrian governments, along with Kurdish forces, primarily from Iraq, have also contributed military forces against the terrorist group. U.S. President Barack Obama has asked Congress for authorization for the use of military force (AUMF) against ISIS. Currently, the U.S. government is involved in the conflict by supplying arms to ISIS opposition forces including $1.5 billion in military assistance to Egypt, according to Fox News. Contact Emily Balan at emily.balan@student.shu.edu.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Maduro: Every Fascist Gets Found Out Madeleine Hillyer Staff Writer
Commenting on the recent arrest of Antonio Ledezma, mayor of Caracas, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro remarked, “Every fascist gets found out,” Reuters reports. Ledezma was arrested on accusations of involvement in a U.S.-sponsored coup against President Maduro’s government. While the U.S. has denied all accusations of any such plot, the Venezuelan President remains adamant that Mr. Ledezma was conspiring with the U.S. government to over throw his socialist government. Despite the U.S. and Ledezma’s denial of such accusations, President Maduro’s claims do have some public support, according to NPR. The United States does have a history of interfering with Venezuelan politics, as there was an attempted coup sponsored by the U.S. against the socialist government of Chavez in 2002. This history, along with recent comments from Venezuelan opposition leaders and U.S. actions, lead some to believe the U.S. and Ledezma may have colluded to form some sort of anti-Maduro plot or coup, NPR also reports. Many leaders of the opposition against Venezuela’s top government officials will admit that there is a more radical faction in their ranks who would like to see a coup throw out the current government, according to the International Crisis Group. Lorent Saleh, for example, is a student who is currently being jailed under accusations of plotting to overthrow the government. According to Reuters, a video released by the government shows Saleh connecting Ledezma to such a faction with statements referring to the mayor as, “an old fox ... the politician who has most supported the resistance.” The prosecutor of this case
India-China Regional Struggle Reaches Sri Lanka Francesca Regalado Managing Editor
President of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro.
has stated there has been other evidence found linking Ledezma to Saleh which will be used at Ledezma’s trial. These allegations come at a time when political tensions are running high in Venezuela. The country’s economy is falling apart with inflation rates hovering around 70 percent, the highest in South America, according to The New York Times. Faith in the country’s socialist government and the President’s approval rating are also at an all-time low. According to Forbes, many Venezuelan opposition leaders argue the true reason for Ledezma’s arrest and the coup plot accusations he is charged with were brought in order to hide from the many problems facing the socialist party. “They’re trying to distract us,” a Ledezma supporter named Rosibel Torres said, according to Reuters. These comments echo the sentiments of many others who were protesting Mr. Ledezma’s arrest. Many are accusing President Maduro of using this arrest and alleged coup plot to distract voters from the country’s pressing economic issues during the country’s upcoming midterm elections, Forbes also reports. While these protests against Ledezma’s arrest are breaking out across the country, it is hard to forget about deadly anti-government protests that broke out last year in Venezuela around the same time.
Photo courtesy of Flickr
This is also not the first time Mr. Ledezma clashed with socialist party leadership. He first was met with resistance from Venezuelan officials when he was elected mayor of Caracas in 2008, beating out a member of a top socialist party in Venezuela for the spot. After his victory, a new government institution was created and most of Mr. Ledezma’s powers and responsibilities as mayor of Caracas were transferred to this new institution. Following this move by members of the federal government at the time, Mr. Ledezma participated in a hunger strike to protest this move by Venezuelan officials. Accusations of sponsoring a coup plot led by Ledezma have also been thrown at Colombian politicians. These are accusations which the Colombian President, Juan Manuel Santos, has forcefully denied, according to Reuters. While the President strongly denied involvement of Colombian politicians in any coup plot Mr. Santos did speak out on Ledezma’s behalf, urging Maduro’s government to give the mayor a fair trial. Relations between these two governments have been particularly sour recently with the Colombian President speaking out for the release of Leopold Lopez, one of Venezuela’s highest profile political activists and prisoners. Contact Madeleine Hillyer at madeleine.hillyer@student.shu.edu.
March 2015 Page 3
Newly elected Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has wasted no time in making his country valuable to the region’s key players. His visit to New Delhi on February 16 resulted in an agreement to build Sri Lanka’s nuclear energy infrastructure and train local personnel, the Indian Foreign Ministry told Reuters. Indian President Narendra Modi stated that the agreement demonstrates “mutual trust” between the two nations, reestablishing a relationship that was strained by the previous Sri Lankan government’s close ties with China. While Sirisena was in India, China was quick to announce that Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera would be visiting Beijing. Mr. Samaraweera meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on February 27 will be followed by an invitation from Chinese President Xi Jinping to Sirisena for a visit at the end of March, the Diplomat reports. A statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry regarding Samaraweera’s visit conveyed China’s intention to continue working with Sri Lanka on the Maritime Silk Road (MSR), part of China’s 21st Century Silk Route Economic Belt, the land front of which will traverse the historic Silk Road from central China to western Europe. According to The Diplomat, Cambodia has expressed support for the Silk Road initiative to become an ASEAN priority, despite the expected hesitance of ASEAN members with whom China is engaged in territorial disputes. The maritime leg of the Silk Road will begin in southern China to eastern Africa, requiring the cooperation of the Maldives and Sri Lanka. During President Xi’s September tour to both Indian Ocean states to push the MSR, Sirisena’s predecessor Mahinda Rajapaksa was still in office.
Prior to his election, Sirisena expressed his plan to depart from Rajapaksa’s China-dependent foreign policy, according to The Diplomat. Bloomberg reports that China’s contribution of $1.4 billion to build an MSR port and highways in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, is the largest amount of economic aid to the island nation, which had endured a 26year civil war until 2009. Since defeating Rajapaksa in the January elections, President Sirisena has reopened Sri Lanka to the humanitarian affiliates of the United Nations, the same ones Rajapaksa’s government had ordered to evacuate from the country before launching an offensive against the subversive Tamil Tigers. Reuters reports that Sirisena, reminiscent of India’s Modi, is determined to pursue a more balanced foreign policy as opposed to Rajapaksa, whose relationship with India was strained by his openness to China. India’s newly forged commitment to Sri Lanka comes amidst a domestic shortage of its own. India’s bid to meet the International Energy Agency’s standards for national energy development is undermined by a quarter of the population who continue to live without electricity. Around 300 million Indians rely on kerosene and animal manure as fuel for lamps and food preparation, according to NPR. NPR reports that the energy crisis affects health and education - indoor air pollution from kerosene and wood-burning fumes lead to respiratory diseases that mostly affect women and children, the latter of whom are discouraged from studying by the lack of sufficient lighting. According to Foreign Policy, President Modi made an election promise to address the inefficiency of the energy sector, alongside expanding India’s regional ties. Contact Francesca Regalado at francescarose.regalado@student.shu.
March 2015 Page 4
school of diplomacy news
Unanue Latino Institute Hosts Panel on U.S.-Cuba-Vatican Relations
Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Zheng Wang Ryan Sullivan
Editor-in-Chief, Online
Photos courtesy of the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute (from left to right) Dr. John A. Gutierrez, Dr. Susan Eckstein, and Mr. Mario Paredes.
Daniel Cruz Staff Writer
On March 2, the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute and the School of Diplomacy brought together a group of experts to analyze the opening of relations between Cuba and the United States, and the role played by the Vatican. The event featured a panel which discussed how this diplomatic feat came about and explored its effects, moderated by the School of Diplomacy’s Dr. Benjamin Goldfrank. One of the points covered in the dialogue was the unfolding of the events that led to opening channels of communications between the former Cold War players, with Pope Francis playing a vital role by writing letters to both US President Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro. Dr. John A. Gutierrez, an Assistant Professor of Latin American and Latino Studies at the City University of New York’s John Jay College opened the panel discussion with Cuban politics. He earned a bachelor’s degree in History at Vassar College, with a masters in Philosophy, and a doctorate in History at the CUNY Graduate Center. Professor Gutiérrez’s principal academic research focuses on the intersection of medicine, modernity and politics in the Spanish-speaking Caribbean. “Unlike places like Mexico, El Salvador, or even the neigh-
boring Dominican Republic, for example, the Catholic Church in Cuba has been historically a weak institution on the island,” Dr. Gutierrez said. Susan Eckstein is the former Director of Latin American Studies and Professor of International Relations and Sociology at Boston University. Dr. Eckstein’s has written extensively on Mexico, Cuba, and Bolivia, and on immigration and its impact across country borders. “This change in relations is not something that will happen overnight because of the 50 odd years of tense, minimal, and hostile relations; a lot of barriers have been built up,” she said, further elaborating that “the barriers that are not just between the United States and Cuba, but also within the United States between Congress and the White House.” The panelists agreed that although the opening of diplomatic channels between both of these countries is a great first step, there are still a lot of barriers to overcome. For example, Dr. Eckstein highlighted in her presentation that among the likely changes are normalizing diplomatic relations, lifting the embargo, removing Cuba from terrorism watch list, resolving property claims, and adopting democracy promotion programs. Mario Paredes is currently with the American Bible So-
ciety as Presidential Liaison to the Roman Catholic Ministry, as well as Founder and Chairman Emeritus of the Board for Catholic Association of Latino Leaders (CALL). He was made Knight Grand Cross of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem in 2012. Mr. Paredes spoke at length of the push by Pope Francis and Pope John Paul II to improve Cuba’s relationship with the international community, stressing literature written in 1998 by then-Archbishop Jorge Mario Bergolio, now known as Pope Francis, called Dialogues between John Paul II and Fidel Castro about the former Pope’s visit to Cuba. Because of Pope Francis’s admiration for his predecessor, he continued his work as an intermediary and facilitator. The panel discussion raised the fascinating subject of a turning point in U.S.-Cuba relations, which can be of interest not just for students of Diplomacy and Political Science, but for anyone interested in current international affairs. The event was made possible thanks to the efforts of the School of Diplomacy and the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute in celebration of the latter’s tenth anniversary. Contact Daniel Cruz at daniel.cruz@student.shu.edu.
January 2014 brought in a new age at the School of Diplomacy & International Relations. The launch of four new research centers set the groundwork for professors and students of the School to participate in academic research pertaining to some of the most pressing issues of the day. One of these centers is the Center for Peace and Conflict Studies, directed by Associate Professor Dr. Zheng Wang. On March 18, the Center for Peace and Conflict Studies co-hosted an event at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars at its headquarters in Washington, D.C. At this event, Dr. Wang spoke on a panel with three other distinguished Wilson Scholars in a presentation entitled, “Contested Memories and Reconciliation Challenges: Japan and the Asia Pacific on the 70th Anniversary of the End of the Second World War.” The event was co-sponsored by the Center for Peace and Conflict Studies at Seton Hall University with the School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution at George Mason University. Dr. Wang was joined by GMU’s Tatsushi Arai, Gilbert Rozman of Princeton University, and Ji-Young Lee of American University. In the presentation the four scholars addressed the importance of state reconciliation and the national identity that drives foreign policy. As discussed in the event, major powers within East Asia today all have a storied past, which include the bloodshed of World War II. In the aftermath of the world’s deadliest war, many states in the region have shifted their national identity in contradicting forms, triggering animosity. One of the key issues that
arose through the presentation is what the term reconciliation means for different people who speak different languages with their own terms and lenses on history. This question emphasizes the need for diplomats and conflict resolution specialists to have a firm grasp on each party’s domestic viewpoints and historical background to be able to come to a solution where all parties can agree. Back on campus, the Center for Peace and Conflict Studies continues to work on its mission to promote the interdisciplinary research of a wide range of topics in the realm of peace studies. The research done by Dr. Wang and the Junior Fellows of the Center will be focused on conflict prevention, conflict resolution and post-conflict peace building. The Center hopes to play an active role in creating a framework where citizens of states who are in active dispute with another state can sit down and discuss their views, in an attempt to show that they share many more commonalities than what they previously believed. The field for conflict resolution and peace studies is as important as ever. With disputes rising in every region of the world, it is crucial that political and social leaders are trained in the art of negotiation and cross cultural understanding. Being able to understand your counterpart’s perspectives is the first and crucial step in any attempt to resolve dispute peacefully. The Center for Peace and Conflict Studies hopes to provide a platform for students of the School of Diplomacy and International Relations to hone those skills and apply them to ongoing conflicts around the world. Contact Ryan Sullivan at ryan.sullivan5@student.shu.edu.
school of diplomacy news
March 2015 Page 5
SHU ONE Campaign Chapter Lobbies Congress John Carey Staff Writer
The ONE Campaign hosts an annual summit in Washington, D.C. for college campus chapters and volunteer leaders to gather and lobby members of Congress. This year, chapter leaders from across the United States met in Washington from February 27 to March 2. Two Diplomacy students represented the Seton Hall, chapter President Christina Minneci and Bjorn Schwarzenbach. The two heard from speakers, met with congressional delegates, and networked with other ONE Campaign chapters. The summit called on Congress to support foreign aid for underdeveloped regions to combat extreme poverty. In total, more than 150 ONE Campaign volunteers had nearly 250 meetings across D.C. with members of Congress. This year, there were two goals for the summit. First, ONE Campaign volunteers lobbied for Congress to continue to support appropriations funding for programs like GAVI (Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization), PEP-
FAR (President’s Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief), and the Global Fund. Funding for these programs helps provide millions of people with life-saving vaccines and medication. Second, they asked their respective Congressional representatives to co-sign the Electrify Africa Bill, which supports investment in African energy. Currently, there are more than 550 million people living without power in sub-Saharan Africa, according to the ONE Campaign. This has become a barrier to educational systems and economic development. “My biggest take away from the summit was how vital youth advocacy is in our world today,” said Minecci. “The general consensus I got, whether I was speaking with Congressional Representatives, high level executives, or ONE staff, was they prioritize and care greatly about the youth voice.” Both Schwarzenbach and Minecci met with multiple senators and representatives to push for these two goals. The two convened with staffers of Senator Cory Booker and Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey, along with Congressman Donald Payne,
Jr., whose father, the late Congressman Donald M. Payne, graduated from Seton Hall in 1957. Schwarzenbach, a resident of Illinois, also spoke with staffers of Senator Richard Durbin and Senator Mark Kirk, as well as those of Congressman Peter Roskam, Schwarzenbach’s local representative. Minecci met with staffers of New Jersey Congressman Thomas MacArthur and Frank Pallone, as well as with Congressman Leonard Lance himself. The ONE Campaign prepared volunteers on lobbying techniques by providing consultants from both sides of the aisle. Many of the programs already have bipartisan support, but lobbying is still vital to securing funding and for bills to proceed from committee to the floor. Volunteers dropped off handwritten letters to senators showing widespread support for foreign aid. Schwarzenbach and Minecci delivered letters that the Seton Hall chapter wrote to Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey. After the meetings, volunteers gave the staffers a View-
Photo courtesy of John Carey
Seton Hall’s ONE Campaign chapter President Christina Minneci (left) and Bjorn Schwarzenbach (right).
master with reasons to support foreign aid. Besides lobbying, the event featured speakers such as U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman, who spoke about how trade can impact development. “We know that trade fuels faster growth, facilitates investment, spurs development, and reduces poverty in developing countries, which translates into more jobs and increased in-
comes for the poor,” said Froman. ONE Campaign CEO Michael Elliot spoke about ONE’s impact on development. Ms. Minecci sat down with the (RED) CEO Deb Dugan, as well, to discuss the former’s volunteer work on campus as part of the next generation who will lead the future. Contact John Carey at john.carey@student.shu.edu.
Faculty Spotlight: Dr.Youssef Mahmoud Ryan Sullivan
Editor-in-Chief, Online
In January 2015, the School of Diplomacy and International Relations welcomed the inaugural Sergio Vieira de Mello Endowed Visiting Chair in the Practice of Post-Conflict Diplomacy in coordination with the School’s Post-Conflict State Reconstruction and Sustainability Program. The creation of this position is the latest step in bringing the School of Diplomacy and the United Nations closer together. Dr. Mahmoud Youssef has had a decorated career with the United Nations, beginning his career far from where he would find himself decades later. His passion first began with the study of linguistics as a Professor at the University of
Tunis. Before joining the U.N., he received a master’s degree and a doctorate in Sociolinguistics from Georgetown University in 1979. Since joining the United Nations in 1981, Dr. Mahmoud has held several high-ranking positions, including United Nations Resident Coordinator in Guyana and Director of the Department of Political Affairs. He has also held posts with the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia and in the Office of Human Resources Management at the New York Headquarters. Later, he was the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Integrated Peacebuilding Office in Burundi (BINUB).
He also assumed the responsibilities of Deputy Special Representative with the peacekeeping mission that preceded BINUB. Before retiring from the U.N. in 2011, he was the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad (MINURCAT). Bringing this expertise to the School of Diplomacy will allow students an inside look into an extensive career with the United Nations in different capacities and locations. Presently, Dr. Mahmoud holds positions in academia as well as the non-profit sector. He has taught graduate courses at Columbia University and New York University pertaining to the study of peace-
keeping challenges, as well as post-conflict studies. Most notably, Dr. Mahmoud has been working at the International Peace Institute in New York City. He has focused his work on post-authoritarian transitions in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and Yemen. He is leading an IPI initiative aimed at supporting the development of Arab think tanks and forums where civil society leaders can have an open dialogue with transitional governments. Going forward, the School of Diplomacy hopes to capitalize on the growing relationship with the U.N through the establishment of the Sérgio Vieira de Mello Endowed Visiting Chair in the Practice of Post-Conflict Diplomacy.
This initiative will allow current U.N. officials to spend time at the university interacting with students through group presentations and one-on-one interactions. Future chairs will be chosen through this partnership with the U.N. Department of Political Affairs. Dr. Mahmoud’s goal in this new partnership is to ensure that the School of Diplomacy becomes more well-known within the UN community. His next lecture, The Art of Listening, will take place on April 9. Dr. Mahmoud will be discussing the importance of effective communication in the realm of international affairs. Contact Ryan Sullian at ryan.sullivan5@student.shu.edu.
FOCUS ON INTERNATIONAL Argentina and China
March 2015 Page 6
Katherine Wolchko Staff Writer
On February 4, in a gesture of both good will and good business, China and Argentina formulated a comprehensive alliance pact that spans multiple sectors within the South American economy. An array of fifteen separate projects were agreed upon by the two nations, comprised of technological advances, improvements in infrastructure, and energy innovations which will be funded—quite willingly—by the Chinese government. The Digital Journal reports that lthough the financial assessments of this package deal have not been disclosed, it is safe to assume that these endeavors will carry on into the tens of billions, some of which is planned to finance a controversial agenda: the construction and development of two new nuclear power plants within the borders of the South American nation. A “gateway for the deepening this strategic friendship,” as
Colin Kimberlin
Argentinian President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner describes, the nuclear deal holds the promise of technology sharing and innovating Argentina’s current plant, Atucha. Additionally, two hydroelectric plants will be built, keeping in line with Argentina’s goal of energy self-sufficiency. While this concept appears to be paradoxical as a foreign power is given the financial responsibility for this endeavor, it is sure to be a highly-anticipated project to follow in the coming months. Yet what is most fascinating about the trans-continental alliance is not just the scope of their agreement (ranging from dams to Chinese CAC J-10 fighter jets), but rather the significance this regarding the changing global landscape. This exchange presents itself quite clearly: it is not just a matter of developing nuclear technology, but is in fact a blatant attempt by both parties to address their desired national agendas while also strengthening diplomatic ties. Argentina is heavily relying on China to run its economy,
with the latter recently agreeing to a currency swap with the peso as it struggles against the international market, in addition to overseeing the country’s dire need for modernization. The negotiated infrastructure projects are services that the Argentinian government should provide, yet their dependency on China shows that they are incapable of meeting those expectations at the current time. However, Kirchner’s dedication to seeing this pact through is evident – she traveled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping with a broken foot and has explicitly stated her resolve to strengthen ties with China, which she referred to as “the world’s most important economic actor” in a congressional hearing at the beginning of this month, Merco Press reports. However, Chinese interests play a significant role here as well. Pledging $250 billion for projects in South America over the next ten years, the Asian superpower has its sights set on not just Argentina, but on the entirety of Latin America as the ideal ground to push its “go global” initiative, focused
Photo courtesy ofThe New Yorker
Argentinian President Cristina Kirchner (left) and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing (right).
on long-term energy and raw material supply. According to The Inter-American Dialogue, onopolizing the Latin American market as its sole benefactor is an incredible display of the power wielded by China, which could have great impact on the international market within the next fifteen to twenty years. But this “marriage of convenience” harbors doubts in the minds of those who are concerned over China’s ability to commit to the terms of the pact, implying that devastating financial ruin for the South American economy will be an inevitable outcome, reports In-
ter Press Service. Jorge Castro, director of the Strategic Planning Institute and an expert on China, stated to Inter Press Service his view that the agreement is important for both parties involved, but warns that it is still “insufficient to gauge the dimension of the bilateral commitment.” An interesting power play of economic potential and international might, the question will not be if China will agree to the comprehensive terms of the agreement, but to what extent and how much time it will take to see it through. Contact Katherine Wolchko at katherine.wolchko@student.shu.edu
India and the United States
Staff Writer
Although India has become an economic powerhouse in recent years, supporting that growth with available energy options to sustain development has become a concern. A recent agreement between United States President Barack Obama and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attempted to address these concerns along the lines of industry reliability and has opened a door to billon-dollar investments from the United States into Indian nuclear power projects. The agreement sets a framework for the U.S. energy industry to enter commercial talks on building nuclear reactors in India, according to Reuters. By unlocking this access, U.S. industries are bound to conduct regular inspections of current reactors and any future
ones while also addressing any possible liabilities regarding a reactor meltdown or any other form of a nuclear accident, according to NPR. Still, the question arises as to how both of these areas are going to be addressed. As for inspections, India is seeking to tie up loose ends dating back to the landmark nuclear cooperation deal signed in 2008. President Modi, a month after taking office last year, agreed to tighter checks and inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The agreement endorses principle of strict liability. This entails channeling any costs produced from a nuclear accident to the plant operator and requires it to pay no-fault compensation for such accidents. Along with this agreement, India is presenting a body of
law and precedent to ensure its laws and regulations meet IAEA international standards. In 2008, the Indian government agreed to sign a 123 Agreement, more commonly referred to as the U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Agreement. But the deal ran into considerable opposition within India, according to German international broadcaster DW. A variety of issues drove Indian opposition against the deal, including concerns about liability, which were addressed in the more recent agreement, and the prospect of Washington enjoying heightened leverage over India’s energy market. The resulting impasse was one of the main reasons for Obama’s visit to India in January 2015. Even more pressing to the U.S. visit was the previous deal’s impact on the nuclear arms race
between India and Pakistan. At first glance it may seem that the deal should have made no impact; however, the technology and fuel covered by the deal were meant to be used strictly for civilian purposes, specifically producing electricity. They were used in the exact opposite way, causing a pressing concern for the new proposition between the two countries. Until the May 2014 election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, many Indian politicians treated the U.S. with considerable suspicion because the previous deal from the Bush administration circumvented many issues, including delivering uranium to India from neighboring Pakistan. The deal has been met with criticism not only in India, but also in neighboring Pakistan. Yet this “breakthrough”
agreement has been seen as a means to pave the way for implementing both the United States and India’s civilian nuclear cooperation on any further developments of nuclear energy production. But what does this new agreement actually do? In 2010, The Diplomat reported that the deal would have to bypass various levels of Indian bureaucracy before going into effect. It is, in its entirety, a fact sheet that both India and the U.S. can draw from on any future nuclear deals, but is not in any way legally binding. Thus, this agreement only sets forth a colloquial understanding between both countries that energy production requires a joint effort and both are willing to make compromises to pursue such goals. Contact Colin Kimberlin at colin. kimberlin@student.shu.edu.
NUCLEAR DEALS
Sri Lanka and Pakistan
March 2015 Page 7
South Africa and Russia
Madeleine Oldstone Staff Writer
Pakistan and Sri Lanka are signing a cooperative nuclear deal at the end of March when Sri Lanka’s new President, Maithripala Sirisena, makes his first visit to Pakistan. The meeting is scheduled for March 31 and the details of the deal will be negotiated before the visit. Since the beginning of his term, Sirisena has attempted to balance diplomatic ties within the region. Earlier in his presidency, he visited India in order to repair relations, which had not been well during his predecessor’s tenure, Pakistani publication The News reports. During the visit he signed an agreement with the Indian government for civil nuclear cooperation. “The bilateral agreement on civil nuclear cooperation is yet another demonstration of our mutual trust. This is the first such agreement Sri Lanka has signed. It opens new avenues for cooperation, including in areas like agriculture and healthcare,” said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a joint press conference.
Many analysts remain skeptical of both countries’ intentions due to the rocky history between India and Sri Lanka, according to the Diplomat. The relationship between the two have been uneasy over the last few years due to India’s interference in the domestic affairs of civil war-torn Sri Lanka. These actions, according to BBC News, have been seen as an attempt by India to balance the regional power of China. Since the beginning of his presidency, Modi has attempted to unite members of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, Reuters reports. Besides Sri Lanka, India, and Pakistan, other members include Nepal, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Maldives. The unity of the association is essential to countering China’s ‘string of pearls’ strategy. The Financial Times writes that “attention to India’s neighborhood, including long-forgotten places such as Bhutan and Nepal, has improved India’s frayed regional standing.” After his visit with Pakistani
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, President Sirisena has been invited to visit China at the end of March. China has stepped up its efforts to court the new government in Sri Lanka, which Beijing sees as “a key partner in its new ‘Maritime Silk Road’ project, which aims to build ports and free trade zones in Southeast Asia and in the Indian Ocean,” Foreign Minister Liu told his Sri Lankan counterpart, Mangala Samaraweera. The $40-billion Silk Road fund is expected to support infrastructure projects in the area. This fund will provide financial support to Sri Lanka as the government deals with rising foreign debt. It is not surprising that China has been the biggest financial lender to Sri Lanka. The new government of Sri Lanka “welcomes China’s investment in and assistance to Sri Lanka and expects to strengthen practical cooperation with the Chinese side in various fields,” according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. Contact Madeleine Oldstone at madeleine.oldstone@student.shu.edu.
Photo courtesy of Pakistan Defense
Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani, the Foreign Secretary of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (left) and Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Secretary Defence of Sri Lanka (right) on April 5, 2013.
Photo courtesy of The Indian Express
Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena (left) with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (right) on February 16.
Photo courtesy of The BRICS Post
BRICS Leaders (left to right): Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and South African President Jacob Zuma.
Kathryn Chaney Staff Writer
Last year, Russia emerged as a frontrunner in the bid for South Africa’s developing nuclear program. An agreement initiated by Russia set the foundation for a long-term relationship between the two states. Furthermore, Russia said that its partnership with South Africa and its nuclear program aims not only to build and expand the nuclear facilities and resources of South Africa, but also offers an opportunity to modernize the African continent as a whole, World Nuclear News reports. Russia was only one of five countries offering nuclear aid to South Africa: the United States, France, China, and South Korea all expressed interest in South Africa’s nuclear program. However, Russia presented one of the more unique offers for South Africa, specifically the “build, own, operate” deal under which Russia will construct and run new nuclear facilities over a seven-year-period and sell generated nuclear power to South Africa at an agreed price. South African President Jacob Zuma affirmed in his State of the Nation Address that his government is committed to expanding nuclear power during his term in office. He went on to say that South Africa would maintain an open process. However, some aspects of Russia’s proposal are surprising in terms of South Africa’s participation. For example, according to iAfrica, Russia’s proposal restrains South Africa financially and holds the latter state accountable for any accidents that
may occur during the construction as well as for any damages. Russia’s current economic situation, according to the Guardian, also puts their ability to provide the necessary funding for a nuclear deal with South Africa into question. The Russian economy is combating multiple obstacles to regaining its economic standing in the international community. First, as a result of its military occupation of Ukraine, Russia currently bears economic sanctions imposed by the international community. Additionally, the drop in oil prices depleted government revenues dependent on taxes on gas and oil, thus causing inflation to rise to 15 percent. These factors pose the question of whether Russia can afford entering a nuclear deal with any state. In the proposed deal, Russia will receive tax exemptions during the seven-year period and reserves the right to block other parties from entering into a nuclear deal with South Africa. Nevertheless, as expressed by South Africa’s The Mail & Guardian, “the vendor-assisted financing” encased in the nuclear deal with Russia provides the only way for South Africa to reasonably afford going nuclear in the present global economy. Despite contrary international advice, South Africa continues to pursue this nuclear partnership with Russia. And for Russia, a nuclear deal with South Africa allows a foothold in Africa, where China is currently the major power player. Contact Kathryn Chaney at kathryn.chaney@student.shu.edu.
opinion
March 2015 Page 8
Is Israel the Answer? Isla Lamont Staff Writer
Kosher super market hostage crisis. Copenhagen temple and café shootings. Most people with even the faintest touch on the world’s pulse have probably heard about these European terrorist attacks occurring over the last half a decade. Every day it is becoming clearer and clearer that Europe is becoming increasingly anti-Semitic. The media has covered no grand publications of any correlated attacks striking at Jewish European citizens nor has there been a huge outcry from the assailed religious and ethnic collective. Though in reality, there is arguably a growing plight for the Jews of Europe. So exactly what has been happening to Jewish European citizens? In the summer of 2014, a French jihadist shot dead three people in a Belgian Jewish museum. An attack on a French kosher supermarket, committed in the same week by a gunmen related to the Parisian satirical journal Charlie Hebdo massacre on January 7, was, as French president François Hollande described “unmistakably anti-Semitic.” On February 15th, an attack in Copenhagen targeted a temple holding a bar-mitzvah, with earlier attacks on a café hosting the French ambassador to Denmark and a cartoonist known for his illustrations negatively depicting the prophet Mohammed. The problem with these uncorrelated attacks is that there is not one organization; there are speculatively thousands of individuals spread across the continent who share the same anti-Semitic beliefs. According to a Jewish Business News, the amount of anti-Semitic acts committed in France was 851, with 243 of them being violent. The Community Security Trust found that Britain’s number of recorded “anti-Semitic incidents” reached a staggering 1,168 in 2014. That’s the highest documented since the trust began monitoring anti-Semitic cases in 1984. With anti-Semitism on the
rise across the continent, cue Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has his own solution to the problem -- mass emigration back to the homeland. According to an article by the Washington Post, the newly re-elected Prime Minister became extra vocal, a quality he is already known for in international affairs, after the Copenhagen attacks. Netanyahu reaffirmed Hollande’s findings, saying “Jews have been murdered again on European soil only because they were Jews.” Hollande has even gone so far as to present his national Cabinet with a $50 million dollar plan to aid a massive influx of future Israeli citizens. I must agree with Prime Minister Netanyahu’s assessment of the situation. What I find grounds for disagreement on, however, is his reaction to it. Why would Netanyahu find it prudent to move millions of European Jews into the Middle East, much less a country which is in an almost constant state of conflict with its neighboring countries? And this is not even addressing the fact that Europeans come from a wide range of national dialects, none of which is Hebrew, and even those who speak it for liturgical purposes are unlikely to find it helpful in daily dialogue. The cultures of the Western world and near East are also different in their very nature and most people would find it difficult to adjust and assimilate. Even if the hotbed of cultural turmoil was as safe a destination as Disneyland, what lesson is to be learned here? An exodus to Israel should not be done out of fear. The Jewish people have been fleeing for thousands of years. It’s time to educate thy neighbor. Ignorance is not to be fled from, but to be challenged with intellect and understanding. It’s about time countrymen stood for one another, against any threat, regardless of race or religion. It’s time to take a step forward by keeping both feet firmly planted. Contact Isla Lamont at rachel.lamont@student.shu.edu.
Netanyahu Offers No Concrete Plan Thomas Ashe Staff Writer
On March 3, in a controversial move, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a speech to the joint session of Congress just a few weeks ahead of the Israeli elections. According to the Huffington Post, Netanyahu insisted that the timing of the speech was motivated by the urgency of the Iran nuclear negotiations and had nothing to do with the March elections. However, while that claim remains dubious at best, a bigger problem in regards to the speech was the fact that it presented no clear alternative to the current deal being negotiated with Iran, the United States, and the five other major powers. While Netanyahu did successfully outline strong reasons why he opposed the deal, he left policymakers asking themselves one fundamental question: What is your strategy? This speech was undoubtedly controversial, and Netanyahu specifically noted that. However, the speech itself also lacked focus. Rather outlining specific goals he would like to achieve, or describing how he would
achieve them, Netanyahu simply made a politically charged speech just weeks before an election back at home. Moreover, as he has done in the past, he spoke to the United States and Israel’s unbreakable bond and the history of Iran’s aggression. However, while it is important to speak about the relationship between the United States and Israel, doing so on three separate occasions, and that too, numerous times, is unnecessarily repetitive. Seemingly following his theme of repetitiveness, Netanyahu also read from a sheet of paper throughout his speech, pointing to several attacks and threats made by Iran. It was as if Netanyahu thought the United States was unaware of, or should be reminded of the history of Iran. In his speech, he told lawmakers: “While the final deal has not yet been signed, certain elements of any potential deal are now a matter of public record. You don’t need intelligence agencies and secret information to know this. You can Google it.” So, what did Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accom-
plish during his short visit to the United States? First, Netanyahu further divided members of Congress on the issue, insulted the President and Secretary of State by not informing them of his visit, and did not suggest any new ideas for reducing Iran’s nuclear arsenal. It was as if his trip produced more negatives than positives, if any positives at all. It is no secret that Netanyahu and President Obama have often disagreed on major policy initiatives before and do not possess the relationship Roosevelt and Churchill had. But, what is even more unfortunate is that this political grandstanding does nothing to solve the issue at hand – ensuring Iran does not possess any nuclear weapons. It is clear that Netanyahu’s address to the American people was only political in nature, and further alienated the country on the issue. It surely speaks volumes when members of Congress boycott a speech made by a foreign leader, let alone a leader of such an important country like the state of Israel. Contact Thomas Ashe at thomas.ashe@student.shu.edu.
SCHOOL OF DIPLOMACY & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Francesca Regalado
Areej Elahi
Ryan Sullivan
Managing Editor
Editor-in-Chief, Print
Editor-in-Chief, Online
Madison McHugh
Abby Shamray
Stephanie Powers
Associate Editor
Opinion Editor
News Editor
Emily Balan
Layout & Copy Editor
Dean Courtney Smith Faculty Advisor
Staff Writers and Contributors Madeleine Hillyer
Colin Kimberlin
Daniel Cruz
Angelo Piro
Thomas Ashe
Kathryn Chaney
Halimah Elmariah
Avonelle Davis
Emily Green
Vicky Mogeni
Katherine Wolchko
Anna Bondi
Matthew Schaller
Madeleine Oldstone
Isla Lamont
John Carey This publication is made possible through the generosity of the Constance J. Millstein, Esq. endowed fund. The views expressed in The Diplomatic Envoy are those of the writers and are not intender to represent the views of The school of Diplomacy, Seton Hall University, or the CJM Fund.
Want to share your opinion? Write a letter to the editor and send it to thediplomaticenvoy@gmail.com.
opinion
March 2015 Page 9
Should Japan Build an Offensive Military Force? Anna Bondi Staff Writer
Recently, ISIS captured and killed two Japanese citizens, military contractor Haruna Yukawa and journalist Kenji Goto. This bold act by ISIS has frightened the world for its violent displays of aggression to Japan, a country which has no offensive military to retaliate with. This incident shook the Japanese community and has forced the government to both rethink their peace constitution and debate the building of an offensive military. This move towards mobilization to be proactive in regards to terrorist threats is in the best interest of Japan, the United States, and the global community. However, as stated in Article 9 of Japan’s Constitution, Japan’s military cannot sustain armed forces or use force to resolve international conflicts regarding terrorism. As stated by the Law Library of Congress, this treaty was formed after World War II by the allied forces to prevent further mutiny from Japan. In the Constitution, it of-
Although critics of the ficially states: Japanese mil“Aspiring sinitary may find cerely to an inthese proposternational peace als to be threatbased on justice ening, it must and order, the be realized that Japanese peoJapan is not the ple forever reenemy right nounce war as a now. sovereign right The real of the nation enemy in this and the threat or case is ISIS, a use of force as Photo courtesy of Flickr terrorist orgameans of settling Japanese hostages killed by ISIS militants in latest offense against Japan. nization who is international diswilling to attack ing years is to alter the article so putes. citizens across nationalities, that Japan can actively pursue In order to accomplish the without mercy, to enforce their “collective defense,” according aim of the preceding paragraph, cruel regime. land, sea, and air forces, as well to the Japan Times. As of today, Japan is an ally Thus far, the Japanese govas other war potential, will nevin the war against terrorism, and ernment has presented securier be maintained. The right of there is no need for the global ty scenarios regarding the milibelligerency of the state will not community to treat this nation tary, as seen in AsiaOne news. be recognized.” as a threat who would use its These scenarios are, generalOver time, the treaty was rearmy for malicious means. The ly put, what the government will vised to allow a standing army for defensive purposes, along be allowed to do and includes Economist suggests that the with aiding and defending allies dealing with illegal acts within global community should aid such as the U.S. However, now their boundaries, protecting and this ally and let Japan defend for Japan wants to eliminate further aiding allies, like the U.S., during itself in its time of need. A source of unwavering restraints by revising this article wartime, and protecting their support for Japan’s increase citizens from harm. This last to allow more freedom with in militarization should come point would include the recent their military. Among Prime Minister capture and killing of Japanese from the U.S. According to The Week, one Shinzo Abe’s goals in the com- citizens by ISIS.
of the reasons ISIS attacked Japanese citizens may have been due to Japan’s alliance with the U.S. As a loyal ally of Americans, Japan should have the ability to protect itself from a common enemy. Also, as humanitarian supporters, the U.S. cannot allow ISIS to get away with the indiscriminate killings of innocent people such as Goto and Yukawa. Further militarization of Japan can also be beneficial for the U.S. In times of conflict, the U.S. may be able to utilize aid from Japan’s newly revamped military forces. In the future, an allied military force amongst multiple nations may be necessary in the war against terrorism. Ultimately, there is a threat to the world that can cause death and destruction to whoever crosses it. This threat is ISIS and it is a growing power. The global community needs to utilize as much support as possible, so that this terrorist organization cannot grow any further and will not harm any more people. Contact Anna Bondi at anna. bondi@student.shu.edu.
Global Businesses May Solve Climate Change Stephanie Powers Opinion Editor
In light of the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference to be held in Paris in December 2015, a group of global business leaders has proposed an ambitious plan to combat climate change. Known as the B Team, this group is asking politicians from around the world to set a goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emission by 2050 in this year’s Paris climate agreement. This goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 bumps up the U.N. target which sought to phase out net emissions by 2070. Such a target is unrealistic in nature, but embodies the ambition necessary to achieve climate change. The B Team argues that this ambitious target is necessary because businesses, and the planet for that matter, cannot
afford the physical and economic risks of climate change. By setting a goal of worldwide net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, businesses will be motivated to embrace new investments and innovation into their business plans to mitigate these risks. One member of the B Team, Virgin founder Richard Branson, told Reuters in an interview, “The politicians in Paris need to know business is behind them taking the right decisions and they are not going to damage the world economically by taking these decisions.” These arguments outlined by the B Team are valid. The urgency for climate change is evident in scientific research. According to the U.N., “If humanity’s greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase, the average temperature of the Earth’s lower atmosphere could rise more than 4 °C (7.2 °F) by the end of the 21st century.”
With the realities of global warming, there is undoubtedly a growing need to find solutions regarding climate change. By incorporating the private sector into climate change initiatives, greater success can be made in creating a sustainable environment. In a globalized society characterized by consumerism and energy dependency, it will be necessary for business practices to change for climate change to be achieved. The fact that global business leaders, like those who make up the B Team, realize the gravity of climate change and want to embrace sustainable initiatives is pioneering and commendable. The B Team is appealing directly to government leaders to embrace a target of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. Ideally, the international community would uphold this initiative in the Paris climate agreement,
but unfortunately this target will most likely never be written in the final document. Being the first agreement formulated by countries of all backgrounds, the Paris talks will have to contend with a myriad of different views and interests. During this process, it is unlikely that a target for net-zero emissions will be upheld, as a wide number of states would have to agree on it. The U.N. has also requested countries to submit their national climate change policies by the end of March, to be compiled for the Paris talks. So far, the European Union has already declared a target of at least 40 percent reductions in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, compared to levels of 1990. It is obvious that the E.U. has not acknowledged the B Team’s goal for net-zero emissions. It can be assumed that most
other industrialized nations will follow suit in adopting similar plans that can be described as fairly attainable, rather than praiseworthy aspirations. One could argue that the E.U. and other states want to be realistic in their climate change plans. Achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 is unlikely in a resource hungry world. Yet, it is not the reality of the goal that matters, but the motivation it will inspire. Climate change is happening and needs to be addressed. Government leaders should embrace lofty targets in hopes they will eventually be achieved. Declaring a goal of net-zero emission by 2050, along with fostering relationships between politicians and businesses, is a step in the right direction to creating a sustainable planet. Contact Stephanie Powers at stephanie.powers@student.shu.edu.
March 2015 Page 10
international news What in the World is Going On?
Syrian Chaos:
Madison McHugh Associate Editor
Middle East:
Continued from Page 1... The rise of ISIS has also threatened the broken nation that faces sectarian overtones, with the country’s Sunni population against the president’s Shia sect, the BBC writes. Additionally, Al-Qaeda inspired militants have been competing for territory, weapons, and influence, further complicating the already distraught country, The Guardian declares. As Syria descends into its fifth year of civil war, the international community faces growing pressures from the U.N., NGOs, and activists alike to take diplomatic action to end the turmoil. U.S. Secretary of
Photos courtesy of Flickr
Two women nursing a young girl at a camp run by the UN Refugees Agency.
State John Kerry recently indicated that the United States and other countries are seeking diplomatic methods to end the Syrian conflict, reports Reuters. Kerry’s remarks in a CBS interview may have indicated that the U.S. is willing to negotiate with Assad; however, a spokeswoman for the State Department later clarified that Washington would never negotiate
with the Syrian leader, writes Reuters. Last year, world leaders convened in Geneva twice for peace talks that aimed at reaching a solution to end the Syrian conflict, however, the peace talks only reached an impasse leading to further stalemate, writes The Guardian. Contact Halimah Elmariah at halimah,elmariah@student.shu.edu.
• On March 21, judge orders release of photos that allegedly show abuse of Iraqi and Afghani detainees in detention centers during the Iraq War. • A deal on Iran’s nuclear program is within reach and achievable by the March 31 deadline despite dissent from Israel and U.S. Republicans. • On March 17, Netanyahu wins Israeli elections in an upset, defeating the Zionist Union party. • Syrian Hassakeh bombings by Islamic State targeted Kurds during Persian New Year on March 21.
Asia:
• It was announced on March 22 that North Korea’s Kim Jong Un will visit Russia, who extended an invitation to their World War II anniversary celebration. • Asia powers China, Japan and South Korea announced on March 21 that they will hold renewed talks despite territorial and diplomatic tensions. • On March 20, parents in India were found scaling school buildings to pass cheat-sheets to their children during yearend exams.
South America:
Death of Putin Critic: Continued from Page 1... Numerous other theories have been given, from the Russian government to average Russian citizens. The following are a few examples: “Provocation” is Kremlin code for a destabilizing attack on the Russian state. According to BBC News, it is standard procedure for Russian state-run media to blame the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency on numerous issues ranging from the Ukrainian uprising and other anti-Russian insurrections in other countries. However, with a lack of hard evidence, few would believe that an American intelligence agency would have the wherewithal to achieve such a drastic action. At the time of his death, Mr. Nemtsov was organizing an anti-war rally in Moscow and planning to publish some damaging evidence of Russian involvement in Ukraine. There are some who believe that rogue elements within the security services or ultra-nationalist groups would want to take him out due to his liberal
brand of politics and his overall opposition to the war, according to Newsweek. However, one theory with considerable popularity in oppositionist circles claims that this murder reaches the Russian president. In The New Yorker, fellow oppositionist leader, Alexei Navalny, said believes that “Nemtsov was murdered by members of a government or pro-government organization on the order of the country’s political leadership.” Nevertheless, the puzzling aspect of this theory is that Nemtsov’s image was considerably stronger during the Yeltsin years and it would have made sense to target younger oppositionists, like Navalny. The main question that is being asked is how this watershed event will affect the Russian opposition moving forward. Other prominent oppositionist figures, like former oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky and former Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov, have been
around for a while. Still, they seem to struggle in creating a trigger that would ultimately hold the publics’ gaze. The reason for this is twofold: the Russian people are afraid of radical change, being that the collapse of the Soviet Union is fresh in their memory, and the fact that the opposition is banned from major TV networks. According to BBC News, these TV networks provide news to 90% of Russians and, without them, these groups do not have a strong support base to jump off of. With Russia in the midst of deep economic troubles as a result of the failing rouble, conflict in Ukraine, and simultaneous domestic issues at home, only time will tell if these young oppositionist groups can more effectively produce a rallying cry that is able to capture the hearts and minds of the Russian people. Contact Matthew Schaller at matthew.schaller@student.shu.edu.
• Protests in Brazil demand President Rousseff ’s impeachment due to a corruption scandal in the state oil firm, Petrobras, on March 19. • Hundreds protest at the ordination of Catholic Bishop Juan Barros who has been accused of covering up a sexual abuse scandal in southern Chile on March 21.
North America:
• U.S. pulled the last Special Operations forces out of Yemen, home of the most active branches of Al-Qaeda, the U.S. State Department announced on March 22. • Gen. David Petraeus warns that Iran-backed Shiite militias are a bigger threat than ISIS to long-term stability in Iraq. • Pentagon announced on March 22 that it is investigating an online threat made by the Islamic State Hacking Division to 100 of its military personnel.
Europe:
• The UK anounced on February 24 that they will send humanitarian aid and military advisors to train troops in Ukraine against pro-Russian separatists. • NATO intercepts Russian military aircraft nearing Latvian airspace, putting nearby states on alert on March 19.
Africa:
• Liberia confirms first new Ebola case in three weeks on March 21, preventing a disease-free declaration for the country. • Egypt revealed on March 16 plans to move from Cairo to “glitzy” new capital. • Tunis Bardo museum attacked by IS gunmen, killing 23 people, 20 of which were foreign tourists on March 18. • Tanzania’s parliament approves a new anti-foreigner law to curb foreign employment on March 19.
Australia:
• Former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser dies at the age of 84 on March 19. He was a vocal support of the anti-aparthied movement. Sources: CNN and BBC.
looking ahead Cara Richardson ‘14
Emily Green Staff Writer
On March 8, women across New York City miraculously disappeared from hundreds of billboards and magazines, marking the release of the Clinton Foundation’s groundbreaking No Ceilings Report. The surprising occurrence attracted widespread international attention as part of the Not There campaign for gender equality, organized by none other than Clinton Foundation intern Cara Richardson. Richardson, a recent graduate in 2014 of the School of Diplomacy with her bachelor’s degree, wasted no time in pursuing her passion for gender equality. Through her internship with the Clinton Foundation, she has been hard at work researching and analyzing data for the organization’s comprehensive report on the status of women and girls.
Vicky Mogeni Staff Writer
Hans Fly graduated from Seton Hall University’s graduate program at the School of Diplomacy and International Relations in 2011 and is now the Business Development Manager at Catholic Relief Services in Port-au-Price, Haiti. Before graduating from the School, he was exploring professional opportunities that would allow him to gain on-theground development experience while utilizing his language skills and applying concepts he had learned in the classroom to real life. Having spent his childhood in the Ivory Coast, he enjoyed living abroad, exploring new cultures, and contributing to the humanity that all people share. Fly wanted to learn more about empowering communities from within and testing innovative solutions to develop-
Cara’s passion for the field. gender equality began Being actively inprior to attending univolved with the Seton versity. While working Hall community was for a member of the an invaluable part of diplomatic communiher education. In fact, ty, she became aware it was her work with of the widespread inSAVE that led to her equalities in economic opportunity with the and political opportuClinton Foundation. nities for women. After sharing her Determined to extensive experience make a difference, creating partnerships she enrolled in Seton and media projects Hall’s Diplomacy and with the SAVE team, International Relashe was welcomed tions program, couinto her current posipling her degree with tion. minors in both EcoCara encourages Photo courtesy of Cara Richardson’s Facebook nomics and Italian. current students to go While at Seton Hall, Cara Richardson, alumnus of Seton Hall University. beyond just studying to Cara became enthralled truly apply yourself to the Sigma Iota Rho Honors with the question of measur- Society. Cara was also an active your passions. ing impact, especially that of member of SHU’s Sexual AsWhen applying for internnonprofit organizations like the sault and Violence Education ship positions, she cautions Clinton Foundation. against being overly humble. (SAVE) team. She quickly got involved It was through these organi- Rather than repeating the rhetwith a number of student or- zations that Cara was able to ex- oric of a mission statement, she ganizations, such as the Student plore her passions. She strongly encourages using the statement Non-Profit Organization, the believes that success is found of interest as an opportunity International Law Society, and through gaining experience in to speak genuinely about your
ment challenges hand-in-hand with local communities. The International Development Fellowship Program with Catholic Relief Services presented the ideal opportunity to gain project management experience working abroad as a young professional while exercising solidarity with the most vulnerable individuals who are struggling to survive in underdeveloped regions of the world. Although he is not a Catholic, Fly felt drawn to the universal principles of Catholic Social Teaching as demonstrated through the work of Catholic Relief Services. The responsibility to improve the conditions of the most marginalized, either at home or abroad, was why he wanted to work in international development from the beginning. Within the organization, he has been most directly involved in promoting market-driven agriculture in collaboration with
Hans Fly ‘11 the Haitian Ministry of Agriculture and the private sector. Thanks to investments in the coffee sector over the last three years, Catholic Relief Services has been able to revitalize the industry in the mountainous Beaumont region where coffee once thrived. Six fledgling cooperatives have been legalized and grouped under a sales network that has now fulfilled contracts successfully with several international buyers. Coffee sales will soon be launched online thanks to the planting of 265,000 coffee seedlings and the regeneration of 3,066 hectares in Beaumont. Fly attributes some of his success to the skills he acquired during his time at Seton Hall. One of the major skills he gained while working on his master’s degree was the ability to conduct thorough and investigative research. Fly recalls: “Not a day goes by where I don’t have to sift
through reports on the status of various sectors in a country and develop proposals using that research to formulate a convincing argument for support from international donors.” As a student, he remembers the pressure of perfecting his research design before submitting the final draft to the professor. Additionally, participation in debates facilitated by the professor as well as the opportunity to speak publicly in front of his classmates while giving presentations helped him build confidence in articulating points of view in public. “Since leaving the School I have had to give numerous presentations in front of donor representatives as well as facilitate dialogue with different national sector stakeholders,” he said. Fly’s future plans involve continuing with Catholic Relief Services, after four years of employment with them already.
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skills and experiences. “It’s okay to talk yourself up, she said, in order to give the organization a clear picture of who you are and what you can bring to the table.” Moreover, although some internships may be a bit tedious, Cara advocates doing each task with a smile. It is important to be proactive and always ask if you can do more. It is this very approach that will lead to an employment offer, says Cara. While her work with the Clinton Foundation is just beginning, Cara has big goals for the future. As she continues to explore her passions, she looks forward to attending law school and applying for fellowships to research abroad in Morocco. Cara’s passion and experiences advocating for gender equality serve as an inspiration for women everywhere, looking not just to break the glass ceiling, but to shatter it. Contact Emily Green at emily.green@student.shu.edu.
He would also like to move to West Africa or Latin America, or perhaps venture into the Middle East as Head of Programs managing multi-million dollar portfolios in collaboration with the national staff. His advice to current Diplomacy students is to “be adventuresome and daring in what you do and don’t settle for the status quo. It is difficult to change the bureaucracies of the Unites Nations, the U.S. government or even NGOs for that matter, but the ideas you bring from your studies at Seton Hall are just what’s needed to revitalize these organizations and facilitate innovation. Be willing to put yourself in less than ideal situations because these are times that contribute to the greatest growth professionally and personally.” Contact Vicky Mogeni at vicky.mogeni@student.shu.edu.
Are you or do you know an alumnus interested in writing? Contact Areej Elahi at areej.elahisiddiqui@student.shu.edu.
words from abroad
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Angelo Piro: Croatia Bok iz Republika Hrvatska. This semester I’m studying international relations and business at Dubrovnik International University (DIU), the first private university in Croatia, learning from some of the top international relations professors in the region and visiting ambassadors, lords and former ministers. I have been living in Croatia for over two months now, immersing myself in Croatian culture and history, which is not that hard in a city named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the program at DIU is conducted in English, a majority of my classmates are Croatian or from surrounding countries. Studying abroad in an unconventional country has allowed me to get a real look at what life is like in a different country, without all the trimmings of a more touristic locale. Having coffee with Croatian classmates along Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main street, or even talking to the baker on my
street, has taught me a lot. My experience of the city has been amazing so far – I get to walk through a medieval city, escape to Mediterranean beaches in the middle of winter, and even explore a Game of Thrones location. However, there is still a very real history that poses pressing questions to a student of diplomacy. This month will mark the 24th anniversary of the Plitvice Lakes incident, which triggered a series of events that led to the Croatian War of Independence, itself only an episode in the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. It’s easy to take these revolutionary events in world history for granted by simply looking at them as pages in a book or an event to be remembered. I was guilty of the same – all I knew of the war was from a few years of classes and what I could find online. It’s hard to go back to that perception once you realize the holes in the pockmarked street you walk down every day are
from shelling and shrapnel. It’s hard to forget about the war and its consequences when you live in a city that still bears the scars. This period in history marks both the country and its foreign policy. Professors and ambassadors who lived through the war now talk about Angelo Piro at the ruins of Diocletian’s Palace in Split, Croatia. how they are ing been born into or hearing reminded of their experience when they see about the war, and they look at the events in Ukraine or the de- diplomacy almost as a way to honor what their country went struction of culture in Iraq. In classes on international through, and contribute to presecurity and peacekeeping, it is venting it in the future. Studying abroad in Duno longer theory or schooling. For Croatians, these discussions brovnik has allowed me to appreciate a new culture and given are their lives. My classmates grew up hav- me a new respect for my stud-
Photo courtesy of Angelo Piro
ies.
No longer is diplomacy and international relations something in a book. Now I live with people who went through the experience and now feel the consequences of what we study. Contact Angelo Piro at angelo.piro@student.shu.edu.
Avonelle Davis: Punta Mona, Costa Rica The resolution that I set for myself when I came to Costa Rica this semester was to try to get out of my comfort zone and experience things that I may only get a chance to do once. Among the many of these opportunities that have crossed my path, I went further out of my comfort zone than I have ever been before when I visited Punta Mona (Monkey Point), a permaculture farm located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. According to Merriam Webster, permaculture is “an agricultural system or method that seeks to integrate human activity with natural surroundings so as to create highly efficient self-sustaining ecosystems.” From what I experienced, the people at Punta Mona make a sincere effort to put this system into practice. All of their electricity and heat for shower water is powered by the sun. They harvest a large majority of their food from the rainforest around them and return any food waste back to the
Photo courtesy of Avonelle Davis
An open air kitchen in Costa Rica.
earth through compost. Their toilets do not use running water but rather the feces fall down to the ground, are covered in sawdust to hide the smell, and are eventually turned into human compost after a nine-month process. All of their water is collected and filtered rainwater, or comes from wells that have been dug around the farm, and they only use biodegradable toiletries since the water from the showers is often used to water plants. If you know anything about me, you know that I am not the first person who would volun-
Photo courtesy of Avonelle Davis
Fresh produce storage: “Feed your body, nourish your soul.”
teer to live for a weekend in a place where toilets don’t flush. That being said, I learned so much from my experience. I learned that it isn’t that hard to make small changes to our lives to make them more environmentally sustainable. For example, think of all the clean water that is wasted every year by flushing toilets. Can you imagine how much of that water could be saved if just one household (or suite in a residence hall) adopted the popular motto, “If it’s yellow, let it mellow. If it’s brown, flush
it down?” Or what if we started to go to the local farmers markets once a month? Once a week? We could stimulate our local economies while reducing the amount of fossil fuels used to deliver produce from miles away. I also learned that success should not be measured by the usefulness of your degree, or by your starting salary or even if you manage to get married, start a family, and advance in your career. Instead, success should be
measured by how much time you can spend with the people you love. It should be measured by how small of a carbon footprint you can leave the earth. It should be measured by your ability to live peaceably with those who are different from yourself. As a diplomacy major, this really hit home for me because it put why we all study this fascinating field into perspective. We do not aim to work in international relations to get the biggest paycheck, the corner office, or even the recognition. We do it because we realize that we all share the same planet and the only way we can all survive here is if we never stop searching for peaceful solutions to our problems. In my opinion, this should be the motivation behind all of our actions, whether you’re planting trees in the rainforest at Punta Mona or sitting in the front row of the General Assembly Hall. Contact Avonelle Davis at avonelle.davis@student.shu.edu.