In recent weeks, the UN Security Council passed a resolution allowing air strikes against the forces of Muammar Gaddafi, Libyan dictator. There was already some expectation regarding the resolution,but what draws attention is the position that Brazil adopted: abstained. With fragile argument, the country shows that it does not fear the position expected for an effective member of the Security Council.
Ambassador Maria Luiza Viotti, who represents Brazil on the Council, stated that “we are not convinced that the use of force (…) will lead to the achievement of our common goal — an immediate end to violence and the protection of civilians.”. It may not lead to an immediate end, but it is a chance. On the other hand, just dialogue, traditional diplomacy and the call for respect for human rights certainly did not lead to the end of conflicts.
The Security Council has already approved a previous resolution urging Libya not to use violence, and nothing was done, on the contrary, what we see are increasingly violent actions. Statements by Gaddafi and his family in which they say they will not forgive anyone. The space for dialogue is over. Now is the time for action.
The selection of the members devemcompor advice, in accordance with art. 23 of the San Francisco Charter, founding the UN, should consider “first, the contribution of the members of the United Nations to the maintenance of international peace and security and to the other purposes of the organization and also the equitable geographical distribution”.
Contrary to what occurs in the General Assembly, where the search for building dialogues and major agreements prevails, the Security Council has the mission to act quickly, to continually reaffirm the importance of global stability. This is the role that Brazil must be able to assume.
In the case of Libya, It's not about simply using violence. It is the use of legitimate violence necessary to prevent issues such as human rights, respect for civilians and international security are ensured. At this time, the omission of the international community, here represented by the council, necessarily means allowing an overtly aggressive dictator to act according to his will.
On the other hand, the action, with effective use of force, indicates the opposite. Indicates that the international community will not accept these disrespects. Shows that governments have limits, that your actions will always have to respect the greater good: to life. Even more, the resolution of the board is not limited to Libya, it is a clear signal to the rest of the world.
In some moments, to achieve peace, it will be necessary to use violence, the power. legitimate, Always. And if Brazil really wants a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, you will have to learn to position yourself. Affirming values is not just a verbal exercise, It is also acting.
Published: Brazil Economic Journal – 04 April 2011
Original: http://www.rodrigocintra.com.br/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_details&guide = 11&Itemid=54
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