31-01-2004, 05:04
The idea of the UN is a good one, whereby basic international ideals and partnerships are fostered. However, at the moment resolutions are passing quite rapidly on issues that are national and domestic - not international. Ideally, Nfld and Lab would be in favour of legalized prostitution on a global scale. However, that has to be something each country decides for itself. The UN should be reserved for truly intl. issues. When it comes to prostitution, the playing field is not equal. Many nations do not have the resources to properly legalize prostitution. We believe it could lead to abuses and a system where some nations would not have the health resources and infrastructure to deal with legalized prostitution. The results could, in reality, for some nations, turn out to be increased crime and disease rates. In addition, it could conflict with any number of established local norms and ideals that cannot be underestimated and wished away. That would be culturally insensitive. Good intentions require a sound approach and the means to succeed. This can only be determined at a national level.
This is just one issue, but we should begin to move now so that nations have the ability to decide domestic issues on a domestic level while still having the opportunity to participate in an international system. At the moment, the supposed liberties offered by the UN threaten to erode national independence on local issues that are closely tied to culture and regional circumstances. If something isn't done, the UN will become chaotic and subsequently scare off potential candidates for international, humanitarian reform. Let us give the UN an inclusive shape, purpose, and vision.
This is just one issue, but we should begin to move now so that nations have the ability to decide domestic issues on a domestic level while still having the opportunity to participate in an international system. At the moment, the supposed liberties offered by the UN threaten to erode national independence on local issues that are closely tied to culture and regional circumstances. If something isn't done, the UN will become chaotic and subsequently scare off potential candidates for international, humanitarian reform. Let us give the UN an inclusive shape, purpose, and vision.