NationStates Jolt Archive

I know that I will get firce falming by about 50% of the forum but here I go,

http://www.cnn.com/2004/ALLPOLITICS/12/28/stingy.americans.ap/index.html

WTF! I swear the UN really has been pissing me off with there American bashing.

Also on a side noe, this is from CNN who hasnt been the most pro-Bush news company.

don't worry no one expect generosity from the us.

Why don't you post the fucking quote instead of making asinine statements? It's easy enough. Here you go.

"We were more generous when we were less rich, many of the rich countries," Egeland said. "And it is beyond me, why are we so stingy, really.... Even Christmas time should remind many Western countries at least how rich we have become."

Egeland told reporters Tuesday his complaint wasn't directed at any nation in particular. No US bashing there--nothing of the kind. It was a statement made to the developed world as a whole, so take your ridiculous "everyone hates us" crap and stuff it. I'm so fucking tired of hearing this crap, I swear.

It sure as hell wasnt derected at the Europeans. Who else is he talking about in the Western Hemisphere, Costa Rica. If you used your common sense then maybe you could figure it out.

Look at the part where the US is last in donations as a percentage of GNP, we are stingy. Is that a bad thing? I don't know.

What the real problem with US foreign aid is not the amount, but the type of spending. We spend billions on emergency disaster relief, but I think the amount we spend on agricultural development in foreign nations was 14 million. There is an applicable saying about training fishermen.

It sure as hell wasnt derected at the Europeans. Who else is he talking about in the Western Hemisphere, Costa Rica.

Explain to me how you know that, without using asinine assumptions and generalizing the guy who said it.

It sure as hell wasnt derected at the Europeans. Who else is he talking about in the Western Hemisphere, Costa Rica.

France, he was talking about France and Germany and he had to talking about Scotland, try to squeeze a penny out of a Scot, nearly impossible...any more of the Western Hemisphere you want me to name?

It sure as hell wasnt derected at the Europeans. Who else is he talking about in the Western Hemisphere, Costa Rica.
Canada's initial donation was pretty paltry. A mere 4 million. I guess Martin's government is saying that more aid will be on the way in other forms (ie relief work and possibly sending out DART), we'll see I guess.

Look at the part where the US is last in donations as a percentage of GNP, we are stingy. Is that a bad thing? I don't know.

What the real problem with US foreign aid is not the amount, but the type of spending. We spend billions on emergency disaster relief, but I think the amount we spend on agricultural development in foreign nations was 14 million. There is an applicable saying about training fishermen.

But if you read the post then you would know that that is the Europe form of looking on it, it should be donated by the amount, not your overall GNP, that means that we rich nations get bitched at becuase we spend more, but less percent of out GNP then other nations.

But if you read the post then you would know that that is the Europe form of looking on it, it should be donated by the amount, not your overall GNP, that means that we rich nations get bitched at becuase we spend more, but less percent of out GNP then other nations.

The Europe form of looking on it, huh. :rolleyes:

There is a bible parable about a poor woman who gives all she has as an offering and a rich man who gives a enormous offering. Who is more righteous? Jesus states that the woman is, even though her offering was much smaller. Even if you aren't Christian the moral holds true.

The Europe form of looking on it, huh. :rolleyes:

There is a bible parable about a poor woman who gives all she has as an offering and a rich man who gives a enormous offering. Who is more righteous? Jesus states that the woman is, even though her offering was much smaller. Even if you aren't Christian the moral holds true.

So god says I should give all my money to next homeless person I meet, yeah, great moral.

When it comes to polotics and any form of debating, religion isnt the bext thing to qoute.

Plus, we need that money for the poor homeless poeple we have in our nation.

The Europe form of looking on it, huh. :rolleyes:

There is a bible parable about a poor woman who gives all she has as an offering and a rich man who gives a enormous offering. Who is more righteous? Jesus states that the woman is, even though her offering was much smaller. Even if you aren't Christian the moral holds true.Now that ain't fair, pulling out Jesus on a wingnut like that. Don't you know that Jesus would've given the UN the finger and supported tax cuts for the rich? :D

So god says I should give all my money to next homeless person I meet, yeah, great moral.

When it comes to polotics and any form of debating, religion isnt the bext thing to qoute.

Plus, we need that money for the poor homeless poeple we have in our nation.
You know, if there was the slightest freaking chance that any money would go to poor or homeless people in this country, you might have a point, but it won't because it's more important that the top 1% of wage earners be protected from the ravages of the capital gains tax. Please--pull the other one now.

The statement was made by a single UN official and wasn't an official UN statement. It's just one person's opinion, no big deal at all.

hahahah, holy crap, I can't beliive that canada only gave 4 million dollars in the begining... hee hee hee

I am from Australia, I am not sure about the figures in other countries :D , but we began with 25 million AUS then another 10 million AUS and we still intend to give at least another 40 or 50 million AUS... and we sure as hell dun make anywhere near as much money as the US do.

but more importantly as far as I am concerned the US as a governmental regime are about as assinine as the Australians as a Governmental regime which is even more assinine then the previous statements by Terronian. hahah

and lastly I hate the US cos they do WAY too much
:sniper: :mp5: :gundge: ing

hee hee, thats all from me for now...

So god says I should give all my money to next homeless person I meet, yeah, great moral.

Way to go!!! You are either unintelligent or you purposefully misinterpreted my post to skew it for your own argument.

The point of the parable was that you should give what you are able to give. Jesus was big on giving what you could, not what you thought was sufficient, and I think we would be better off if we all thought that.

When it comes to polotics and any form of debating, religion isnt the bext thing to qoute.

Seeing as this country is in the midst of a christian rebirth, I think it is somewhat appropriate. However, I used that to point out that it is a Christian view much more than it is a European view.

Plus, we need that money for the poor homeless poeple we have in our nation.

I am willing to bet that you are not big on welfare either, so you probably can't argue the "help the homeless" thing.

I am from Australia, I am not sure about the figures in other countries :D , but we began with 25 million AUS then another 10 million AUS and we still intend to give at least another 40 or 50 million AUS... and we sure as hell dun make anywhere near as much money as the US do.

but more importantly as far as I am concerned the US as a governmental regime are about as assinine as the Australians as a Governmental regime which is even more assinine then the previous statements by Terronian. hahah

Actually, Australia committed $10million in the beggining, then added $25million bringing it to a total of $35million (Im not sure if you can count ;))

And for the second part of the quote, well i have no farking clue as to what you were trying to say.


If you think the US' contribution is stingy, go look at Germany and France.

If you think the US' contribution is stingy, go look at Germany and France.

It's percentage of GNP that's important to look at, not overall amount. If it was going to be a fair distribution, the US should give the most. Just sayin'

This is the classic semi-extortion sort of tactic the UN is built on. Whether direvted at the US or any other nation, this sort of thing is in poor taste, in my opinion. Let us compare the amount of relief aide that any nation gives to what nations are required to give. By dollar figure or percentage or any measure you choose, what is anyone required to give? That's right, jack shit! The only answer to the question of how much if asked to the UN is more. Always has been, always will be.

It's percentage of GNP that's important to look at, not overall amount. If it was going to be a fair distribution, the US should give the most. Just sayin'
And the US does.

And the US does.

Referring to the article, the US apparently gives the least percentage out of developed nations.

The United State government gives more money than any other industrialized nation in the world. England alone gives more money than most of its "continental" bretheren; so stop your bashing of the worlds most successful countries, and start accepting capitalism for the success it has become. Frikkin' socialists; I swear, you're never satisfied.

Vis-a-vis donations, the article doesn't take into account all the donations private citizens (such as Bill Gates, who donates billions ever year out of the kindness of his heart) make from the United States.

By the way, Indonesia is the worlds most populous Muslim country. So, where are Syria, Iran, and Saudi Arabia? Why aren't they stepping up to the plate here?

Who are the hypocrites?

Referring to the article, the US apparently gives the least percentage out of developed nations.
Like I said in my previous post, I think the entire conversation is in poor taste. But for the sake of arguement, why is the percentage of GNP as a measurement the most important?

It's percentage of GNP that's important to look at, not overall amount. If it was going to be a fair distribution, the US should give the most. Just sayin'

I disagree.

GNP percentages dont mean shit. Its the actual dollar terms that get things done.

The US could give .1% of its GNP and still outnumber the dollar amounts contributed by all other nations.

In the article it says why this is so.

The United State government gives more money than any other industrialized nation in the world.

Because it's economy as a whole is far greater in mass, that makes sense. It's the percentage value that is important to look at.

Vis-a-vis donations, the article doesn't take into account all the donations private citizens (such as Bill Gates, who donates billions ever year out of the kindness of his heart) make from the United States.

Yes it does mention that, and the figure (adjusted for an inflation rate of 3%) has remained stagnant.

By the way, Indonesia is the worlds most populous Muslim country. So, where are Syria, Iran, and Saudi Arabia? Why aren't they stepping up to the plate here?

Maybe they have, how do you know?

I disagree.

GNP percentages dont mean shit. Its the actual dollar terms that get things done.

The US could give .1% of its GNP and still outnumber the dollar amounts contributed by all other nations.

In the article it says why this is so.

He is just saying that we are stingy.

Who is more stingy: The millionaire who donates 100 bucks to charity, or the single parent who donates $50?

Like I said in my previous post, I think the entire conversation is in poor taste. But for the sake of arguement, why is the percentage of GNP as a measurement the most important?

I disagree.

GNP percentages dont mean shit. Its the actual dollar terms that get things done.

The US could give .1% of its GNP and still outnumber the dollar amounts contributed by all other nations.

Well, duh.

Say, Australia could give the same gross amount as the US, but that would equal approximately 2.5% of our GNP, where the US would only need to contribute .14% (or whatever it was) and get away with it. Who is being more generous in that instance?

That's why the percentage is the most important. It's an equal and fair share of the burden if all nations have the same percentage target.

If it wasn't for all the people suffering, the US should tell everyone to $%*@-off and keep all the money to cut taxes in the US becuase of this report alone. Luckily for everyone all over the world the US is the most altruistic country to ever exist and will probably donate even more money becuase of this. They already spend trillions of dollars maintaining an army to protect most of the world, and now they will end up spending another billion to help these people and all they can do is bitch and moan. Some people a real peices of work, that is for sure.

If it wasn't for all the people suffering, the US should tell everyone to $%*@-off and keep all the money to cut taxes in the US becuase of this report alone. Luckily for everyone all over the world the US is the most altruistic country to ever exist and will probably donate even more money becuase of this. They already spend trillions of dollars maintaining an army to protect most of the world, and now they will end up spending another billion to help these people and all they can do is bitch and moan. Some people a real peices of work, that is for sure.

Let us remember that the statement was about the entire western world, not the US solely. It was our politicians and media who assumed it was directed towards the US. This paranoid nationalism that is brewing is disturbing.

If it wasn't for all the people suffering, the US should tell everyone to $%*@-off and keep all the money to cut taxes in the US becuase of this report alone. Luckily for everyone all over the world the US is the most altruistic country to ever exist and will probably donate even more money becuase of this. They already spend trillions of dollars maintaining an army to protect most of the world, and now they will end up spending another billion to help these people and all they can do is bitch and moan. Some people a real peices of work, that is for sure.

It was only one official that said this, his personal opinion, and not an official UN statement.

I'm not even going to bother touching on your other arguments :rolleyes:

Some reason to keep your optimism intact even if you dont think the US governement is going to do anything

http://www.aafrc.org/about_aafrc/bysourceof66.html

2003 data US Charitable contributions

Individual contributions were 74.5% and totaled $ 179.3 Billion dollars

Foundations were 10.9% and totaled $ 26.3 Billion

Bequests were 9% and totaled $ 21.6 Billion

Corporations were 5.6% and totaled $ 13.4 Billion

For a total in charitable contributions of $ 241 Billion

Not to bad I dont think

AAhhzz

I know that I will get firce falming by about 50% of the forum but here I go,

http://www.cnn.com/2004/ALLPOLITICS/12/28/stingy.americans.ap/index.html

WTF! I swear the UN really has been pissing me off with there American bashing.

Also on a side noe, this is from CNN who hasnt been the most pro-Bush news company.


Tppt! No surprise here. The US hasn't kept up with its monetary contributions to the UN for quite some time either.

Let us remember that the statement was about the entire western world, not the US solely.

Suuuuure it was ;)

It was only one official that said this, his personal opinion, and not an official UN statement.

I'll be waiting for the UN to come out with an official statement denouncing the "personal opinion" as not the view of the UN, or I will continue to assume that it is the feelings of the UN. And please, the people at the UN may be stupid, but not stupid enough to make an official statement like that. So they had someone do it for them. Everyone sees through it, but it gives you plausible deniability, which the great corrupt Kofi loves so much.

Thats utter rubbish of the UN. IMO.

I never understand the notion that you MUST DONATE.
USA can give as much as they want. Its their money anyway.

Suuuuure it was ;)



I'll be waiting for the UN to come out with an official statement denouncing the "personal opinion" as not the view of the UN, or I will continue to assume that it is the feelings of the UN. And please, the people at the UN may be stupid, but not stupid enough to make an official statement like that. So they had someone do it for them. Everyone sees through it, but it gives you plausible deniability, which the great corrupt Kofi loves so much.

Thank You.

Now what really is pissing me off is how I have been proclaimed stupid by the rest of this forum becuase I dont see eye to eye with what you think, okay now look, no offense, but even though we didnt give as much of our GNP, 7 Million, irs going to help more then 60 thousand. So far we have given the most money out of any country, and the UN, look at the UN, there going to bash us for not giving like 2& of our GNP when they made money from poor starving Iraqis in the Food for Oil scandal.

You cant rate on GNP, although we are richer then most countrys, that also means we have more things to pay for.

Also to clear the record, the UN guys message was intended at the US becuase right before the message, he named us about how we need to do more or some stupid shit, I dont know.

Also, with the statistics you can see from earlier post and websites, if you combine, all Goverment and Personnal charity donations, we outdo all nations in GNP anyway.

Ok peeps.


Why do we have to get into a thrash match about this event?

Do any of you know people affected by it? Where you affected by it?

I work with several people who have. One person may have lost many family members. He is from Sri Lanke and is on leave right now. Another told me his village was thrashed over 400 dead so far.

Using this to trash the actions or inactions seems to be rather poor taste at the moment.

Of all that have contributed to this thread, how many of you have made a donation to the relief fund?

I have.....

Thats utter rubbish of the UN. IMO.

I never understand the notion that you MUST DONATE.
USA can give as much as they want. Its their money anyway.

Remind the rest of the world of this when the US has a catastrophe of its own. :)

Remind the rest of the world of this when the US has a catastrophe of its own. :)

Well hell, knowing the UN, we wont get a goddam dime.

Ok peeps.


Why do we have to get into a thrash match about this event?

Do any of you know people affected by it? Where you affected by it?

I work with several people who have. One person may have lost many family members. He is from Sri Lanke and is on leave right now. Another told me his village was thrashed over 400 dead so far.

Using this to trash the actions or inactions seems to be rather poor taste at the moment.

Of all that have contributed to this thread, how many of you have made a donation to the relief fund?

I have.....

*raises hand* Well actually is was my whole family, it wasnt much though, like 10 dollars, before any of you say were stingy, it was to a bell ringer guy at K-Mart

*raises hand* Well actually is was my whole family, it wasnt much though, like 10 dollars, before any of you say were stingy, it was to a bell ringer guy at K-Mart

If you were the Gates family, then we could say stingy. ;)

Every little bit helps, it's going to costly. :)

*remembers a time when Americans were much more pro-UN*

What happened?

Oh yeah, no more a geopolitically bipolar two super power world where either party(ideology) manipulated the UN to its own ends but one power is gone and the remaining one continues its endeavour of projecting power through an international body.

Remind the rest of the world of this when the US has a catastrophe of its own. :)OH... you mean like the four storms that hit Florida one after another? Any one know how much foreign aid came our way for that? really, I have no idea if the US got any help for that.

As I said before... bash the US but when a catastrophe hits, the first people they turn to is the US.

Wait, when did the US become the entire industrialized world?



Ok peeps.


Why do we have to get into a thrash match about this event?

Do any of you know people affected by it? Where you affected by it?

I work with several people who have. One person may have lost many family members. He is from Sri Lanke and is on leave right now. Another told me his village was thrashed over 400 dead so far.

Using this to trash the actions or inactions seems to be rather poor taste at the moment.

Of all that have contributed to this thread, how many of you have made a donation to the relief fund?

I have.....

I did.

OH... you mean like the four storms that hit Florida one after another? Any one know how much foreign aid came our way for that? really, I have no idea if the US got any help for that.

As I said before... bash the US but when a catastrophe hits, the first people they turn to is the US.

Well, we ARE the ones with the money.

The poor don't ask the homeless for cash...

Well, we ARE the ones with the money.

The poor don't ask the homeless for cash...But cash isn't the only form of contribution countries can give. And I've seen Homeless people help those in time of need to. Giving isn't limited to How much one can give, but also what one can give.

Or am I the only one who feels that way?

But cash isn't the only form of contribution countries can give. And I've seen Homeless people help those in time of need to. Giving isn't limited to How much one can give, but also what one can give.

Or am I the only one who feels that way?

Ironically, many on your side say the opposite-that it doesn't matter what we give, just how much we give.

I'm simply stating that people turn towards the US because we have the money.

Ironically, many on your side say the opposite-that it doesn't matter what we give, just how much we give.

I'm simply stating that people turn towards the US because we have the money.Yeah... Unfortunatly, that's what everyone wants.... not our food, not our manpower... not even (in some cases) our technology (products)... but show them the dollar bill...

A suggestion by a U.N. official that the world's richest nations were "stingy"

U.N. emergency relief coordinator Jan Egeland says his comment wasn't aimed at a particular country.

But of course, nobody puts one behind the American Internet martyr-clowns...

They knows it!

Everybody hates us! Boo-hoo! :rolleyes:

Yeah... Unfortunatly, that's what everyone wants.... not our food, not our manpower... not even (in some cases) our technology (products)... but show them the dollar bill...
With cash they can buy food from the locals, with cash they can hire locals to work etc Cash is easier to handle than any other form of help and that's why they want it.

With cash they can buy what they really need, not what other countries think they need. And "our" products aren't always matching with their systems. It's useless to donate high technology if they don't know how to operate it (if they even have electricity for it).

Yeah... Unfortunatly, that's what everyone wants.... not our food, not our manpower... not even (in some cases) our technology (products)... but show them the dollar bill...

I'm pretty sure the dollar figure for aid given includes food, goods, etc.

With cash they can buy food from the locals, with cash they can hire locals to work etc Cash is easier to handle than any other form of help and that's why they want it.

With cash they can buy what they really need, not what other countries think they need. And "our" products aren't always matching with their systems. It's useless to donate high technology if they don't know how to operate it (if they even have electricity for it).I know... it the easliest and most liquid form of help.. still, what I am saying is that Poor countries can also contribute and they are. it just strikes me as funny as people hold out their hands for money while our food for their starving people rot in storage sheds because they think it's poison.

and the comment about sending help other than money was in reference to when America is hit with Natural Desasters... does anyone know if other countries sent aid when Florida was hit with four major storms, one after another? Just because we are the richest doesn't mean we don't need the help every now and then. But then again, I guess everyone expects the US to pay for everything.

and the comment about sending help other than money was in reference to when America is hit with Natural Desasters... does anyone know if other countries sent aid when Florida was hit with four major storms, one after another? Just because we are the richest doesn't mean we don't need the help every now and then. But then again, I guess everyone expects the US to pay for everything.


Well, America rarely appeals for help. I think most people assume that America can handle these kind of disasters. I'm sure that if America asked, they would get aid.

It makes more sense to give money than aid such as foood. If we continue to provide poor countries with food it will completely ruin thier farmers and then they will never be able to develop.

And as for everyone turning to the US why shouldn't they. Being the worlds super power it needs to live up to the responsability.

I just want to say that I hate the US.

Hey, compared to what the US spends/has spend in Iraq, it isn't very much for a very large disaster.

lets see, the US is giving $35 million; Japan $30 million; Germany about $7 million; France $136,000

somehow I think $136,000 is a bit less than 0.1% of GNP for France.


Yup, stingy 'ol US.

Do you have anythink to back up that oppinion? Or are you just jealous?

I just want to say that I hate the US.

I mean you

I know... it the easliest and most liquid form of help.. still, what I am saying is that Poor countries can also contribute and they are. it just strikes me as funny as people hold out their hands for money while our food for their starving people rot in storage sheds because they think it's poison.

and the comment about sending help other than money was in reference to when America is hit with Natural Desasters... does anyone know if other countries sent aid when Florida was hit with four major storms, one after another? Just because we are the richest doesn't mean we don't need the help every now and then. But then again, I guess everyone expects the US to pay for everything.

Yes, everybody should help, if one country is too poor to give money, it may donate something else. I agree with that. And seems to me that in this case locals have helped tourists as much as they can. They have shared their food, their clothes and their homes with complete strangers. I hope these strangers remember this in the future too.

With the other point I have to agree with Chicken Pi. I quess we haven't offered you any help because we (I) believe you would be offended if a small nation like Finland would offer it's help to Florida. Like you couldn't take care of it by yourself...

I just want to say that I hate the US.

and my response would be BFD. who cares? right now its fashionable to say "I hate the US", well, so what?

Everybody hates the US, then demands money, aid, etc.

and looking at the name of your country, I would like to point out that I hate Nazi's. But I expect you would care about that as little as I care about your statement.

lets see, the US is giving $35 million; Japan $30 million; Germany about $7 million; France $136,000

somehow I think $136,000 is a bit less than 0.1% of GNP for France.


Yup, stingy 'ol US.

Even so, $35 million is still less than 0.1% of the US GNP :p

US is in a catch 22. When no one wants the help, the US are bitched at for helping. When people forsee the US as being an aid, they feel they should give more assistance. Most people in the world insist on having it both ways. Well, I suppose better the US to be bitched at than another country. I'll take that. :headbang: :rolleyes:

With the other point I have to agree with Chicken Pi. I quess we haven't offered you any help because we (I) believe you would be offended if a small nation like Finland would offer it's help to Florida. Like you couldn't take care of it by yourself...you mistake us... the offer of help would never be recieved with a cold heart, nor will we be offended. We may politely refuse, but if you offered the help, we will remember the offer and the spirit in which it was given. And I am not saying the offer wasn't given because I really don't know (honestly) if any aid was offered to us for Florida, but I believe our Emergency funding was depleted after the second storm, so I don't think any offer would've been refused. :)

I know this is a grim topic, but I noticed on the nationstates main page the link to this topic said "UN appalled by US Tsunami..."

I know the UN are pissed off with the US, but it's hardly their fault

Well, as far as other nations giving aid to the US after a major disaster, I remember there was a major fundraising campaign here in Norway and most parts of Europe after 9/11. But perhaps nobody noticed/remembers? :confused:

On a different note, it is sad to see that some people are willing to turn as solemn an occasion as the worst natural disaster in modern history into yet another US vs. UN/Europe flamefest. :(

you mistake us... the offer of help would never be recieved with a cold heart, nor will we be offended. We may politely refuse, but if you offered the help, we will remember the offer and the spirit in which it was given. And I am not saying the offer wasn't given because I really don't know (honestly) if any aid was offered to us for Florida, but I believe our Emergency funding was depleted after the second storm, so I don't think any offer would've been refused. :)
Alright I'll remember it the next time you suffer from natural disasters. To be honest I don't believe my country would offer any help anyway. Finland is stingy :D

but different organisations and people might.. There were some campaigns to collect money after 9/11

On a different note, it is sad to see that some people are willing to turn as solemn an occasion as the worst natural disaster in modern history into yet another US vs. UN/Europe flamefest. :(

I wasn't having a shot at the US or the UN, I just had to chuckle at the title. On a serious note, I do genuinely feel for the victims and didn't intend to start any kind of flaming, I can't speak for anyone else though.

Well, as far as other nations giving aid to the US after a major disaster, I remember there was a major fundraising campaign here in Norway and most parts of Europe after 9/11. But perhaps nobody noticed/remembers? :confused: I Actually remember hearing of that back then... thanks. :D

France, he was talking about France and Germany and he had to talking about Scotland, try to squeeze a penny out of a Scot, nearly impossible...any more of the Western Hemisphere you want me to name?

My, that's a remarkably stereotyped, baseless and dare-I-say borderline racist comment. (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/3183479.stm)

No developed nation gives enough in development or disaster aid to the 2nd or 3rd world, it's that simple.

How was it anti-American? Jan Egeland wasn't aiming his comments at any particular country. The only people who made this America-centric were CNN.

I'm glad that America is giving a lot of money. I wish it would give more. What I am angry about it the pitiful amount pledged by my country - a mere €1 million!

I just want to say that I hate the US.
Don't hate, love. Really, the American people are mostly a decent lot, just it's their government that is "teh evil".

The ironic thing is, the money that the US is "donating" to the countries effected by this disaster could probably be payed for soley by the taxes that the American government collects from companies that exploit these countries for cheap labor.

Americans always comment on how much the world needs them, try to remember that you need sweat shops in poor countries so that you can walk around in your Nike shoes, and get little plastic toys with your happy meals...not to mention eat foods other than steak.

On a different note, it is sad to see that some people are willing to turn as solemn an occasion as the worst natural disaster in modern history into yet another US vs. UN/Europe flamefest. :(
Well, it is Nation States.

and the comment about sending help other than money was in reference to when America is hit with Natural Desasters... does anyone know if other countries sent aid when Florida was hit with four major storms, one after another? Just because we are the richest doesn't mean we don't need the help every now and then. But then again, I guess everyone expects the US to pay for everything.

The people in Indonesia, Thailand etc needed help more than the people in Florida. Most people in the US have insurance, the countries hit by the tsunami have no insurance, no compensation except for the aid they recieve, no homes and now suffer from lack of clean water. Who needs the money more?

it's good that in these times of need the Europeans and the Americans can come together to complain about each other.

How about everyone from the U.N. and the European countries that got kickbacks from Sadaam with the Oil for Food program give that money for relief? It would be more than enough

Just wondering, but did anyone take into account the amount of funds going to other countries to assist in developement, famine, disasters, etc. The disaster in Asis remains just one example of a country/region in need. The US is expected to aide every country in need for every crisis (which I believe the US should contribute as much as possible). For example, if the US contributes to 40 different contries, and Japan contributes to 20 countries, is it expected that each be given 1% of said countries GNP?

How was it anti-American? Jan Egeland wasn't aiming his comments at any particular country. The only people who made this America-centric were CNN.

I'm glad that America is giving a lot of money. I wish it would give more. What I am angry about it the pitiful amount pledged by my country - a mere €1 million!

I would have to agree with this. In reading the article it is imperative to take note, firstly that it is american-centric simply because it is an american news network, and secondly because it seems to me that American media is slightly more self-centric than say media in other countries. Secondly, because of this, simply, that the author of the article, and the news network itself are American, one has to expect there to be a bias towards the american side.

So CNN does really give a biased perceptive in this article, that has to be taken into consideration

Furthermore, I have heard several individuals explain how other countries "hold out their hand for money" from the USA (or something like that). But, firstly I suspect that these comments were made by US citizens themselves (pleasw correct me if I am wrong), who thus should logically because they do not live in these other countries, have the ability to judge this well. But I certainly know that my country does not, "hold out their hand for money" from the USA

In addition, it is my conviction also, that in some of the responses there is need to seperate what is the state (governement) from the people. Because while in the ideal democracy, the government represents perfectly the people, that is the ideal democracy, and can not possibly exist when governing over such large amounts of people. and the concept of people and state seems to have been interchanged in some of the responses.

But also, I do not like it when something beneficial, even benevolent is done, but it is criticised, because it is insufficient or not up to standard. Is not any donations good of heart and thus be appreciated nevertheless if it is to standard or not. ( I am not necessarily stating that I think the US donation was or was not sufficient or up to standard ). What if there were to be no donations at all. If no nations gave foreign donations, the one who gave even very little would be respected and appreciated. To be condemnatory of benevolent acts, it seems contradictory.


(but then some may have been discussing more the contrast between focus upon doing of benevolent and detrimental (eg:starting wars, and making conficts) acts. And maybe it was explaining how focus should be towards, the benevolent, rather than detrimental. That it should be towards contruction rather than destruction, upon responding to remedy the detrimental occurences and not creating them oneself.)

You cannot pass judgement on the nation based on what the government provides. My company that I work for gave 100,000 U.S. to aid, and is having fundraisers in 50 different locations around the country, which is hoping to at least equal that amount. There will be millions more coming from America's private sector even if no more comes from the government

lets see, the US is giving $35 million; Japan $30 million; Germany about $7 million; France $136,000

somehow I think $136,000 is a bit less than 0.1% of GNP for France.


Yup, stingy 'ol US.

And just to think Australia is giving $35millionAUD and has less money then all of the nations mentioned.

IMO, giving aid in form of items is better than cash. Cash, the government would just gobble it up anyway.

Thailand and Indonesia should be fine financially to recover from the disaster. Their countries rich enough, but don't know how corrupted, that the money ends up being in some Generals hands and not to the people.

Like Rumsfeld says, knowing what they need might take some time though. Because I'm sure if US gives every child in Asian countries that is effected a American Car, they would triple maybe quadraple the amount of aid compared to any other nation. :p

Any Insurance agents here? Because my insurance doesn't cover 'Act of God' in it's policy. That if any major disaster happens, I would be funded. :( Don't know about yours.

Body count now above 70,000 ... :(

(According to Reuters)

I agree greedy pig regarding the type of aid. Possibly services would be most useful. BUt with the sarcasm, American cars, alone, would be fairy pointless especially considering that all the cars would do is sink.

But insurance it seems to me is seen from a slightly different perspective in America, than other countries, so we mustn't assume similar circumstances in that perspective

(I'm probably taking a not-so-serious post a little to seriously ;) )

The body count last I had heard was 11,000 some time ago, wow it has increased much.

The numbers are increasing as the dead bodies are getting washed ashore, or the tide recedes and the bodies are being revealed. Plus, the military working Inward out. :( And communications are down.

IMO, giving aid in form of items is better than cash. Cash, the government would just gobble it up anyway.

Thailand and Indonesia should be fine financially to recover from the disaster. Their countries rich enough, but don't know how corrupted, that the money ends up being in some Generals hands and not to the people.


It depends. If you donate money to Red Cross it will use the money to buy the items they really need. They don't give it to governments. Have to say I'm not sure how they spend the money which has been donated by nations. I believe a huge amount of it (most of it) goes through Red Cross, not through Indonesian (or Indian, or Sri Lankan) government. Countries can also send medics, drugs, water etc.

About Indonesia..One of the problems is that the area is Aceh. There has been a civil war for years in Aceh and the whole area is almost ruined in the first place. I don't think their government is really that eager to rebuild an area where "enemy" lives. Of course many foreign companies do their businesses there too...

Any Insurance agents here? Because my insurance doesn't cover 'Act of God' in it's policy. That if any major disaster happens, I would be funded. :( Don't know about yours.
I quess it's normal policy that insurance companies don't have to pay in case of force majeure.

They would be pretty bankrupt, Helioterra, if they did. :(

To the people complaining that nobody gave to the US when florida was hit:
I remember that Canada offered something. It wasn't much but we had food drives and so on. Just because you don't remeber doesn't mean it wasn't happening.

Also, "do unto others as you would have done unto you". Just because nobody gave you anything is no excuse not to give when somebody else is in need of assistance.

As to the matter, I believe the comment wasn't directed at the US but the whole western world. I know that Canada didn't contribute much so far. Let's stop seeing every statement as an attack on the US.

As for me, I contributed 40$.

http://edition.cnn.com/2004/WORLD/asiapcf/12/28/powell.aid/index.html

I wonder whether the same will happen that happened to the earthquake in Bam... Only 8,5% of the promised money actually arrived.

Apparently after the US Britain has donated the most amount of cash, £15 million (Equivilent of $29m). Pretty good considering how much of the GNP that is compared to other countries.

Personally I think it is interesting that the person who started this thread assumes it was about the US. Maybe they secretly feel guilty?

Sounds like a tempest in a teapot to me. The UN needs to clean up its own house before throwing stones at anyone else.

They would be pretty bankrupt, Helioterra, if they did. :(
very, very true.

Sometimes it seems there are awful lot of force majeures as they quite rarely pay anything. (no, it can't be robbed, you have no bruises to prove it!)

I think the important part of this discussion has been missed. Its not a competition to see which nation gave the most. When you walk by a Salvation Army bucket and donate cash or old clothes or cans of food or Toys for Tots, do you get together with a group of people and say "Oh I gave 3 bags of clothes and you only gave 2." "I put $5 in the bucket and you only put $2." I feel sorry for people who feel like helping someone in need is about who can give or did give the most. The people who lost their homes and family members due to this disaster certainly arent sitting around wondering which nation gave the most. They are broken hearted by such a tradgedy and are thankful that many nations are contributing money and resources to help them. Its sad that even when giving money to help those in need has to be criticised. How rediculous.

RE:peachleand
I just said this. But no one remembers my massive reply

I think the important part of this discussion has been missed. Its not a competition to see which nation gave the most. When you walk by a Salvation Army bucket and donate cash or old clothes or cans of food or Toys for Tots, do you get together with a group of people and say "Oh I gave 3 bags of clothes and you only gave 2." "I put $5 in the bucket and you only put $2." I feel sorry for people who feel like helping someone in need is about who can give or did give the most. The people who lost their homes and family members due to this disaster certainly arent sitting around wondering which nation gave the most. They are broken hearted by such a tradgedy and are thankful that many nations are contributing money and resources to help them. Its sad that even when giving money to help those in need has to be criticised. How rediculous.Actually, the point hasn't been missed, it was hit several times. The argument is should the contributions be measured by face value or by GNP%. The US contributes alot in Face Value, however, what it contributes is less than the others if you look at GNP%.

The thread just... wandered somewhat.

Actually, the point hasn't been missed, it was hit several times. The argument is should the contributions be measured by face value or by GNP%. The US contributes alot in Face Value, however, what it contributes is less than the others if you look at GNP%.

The thread just... wandered somewhat.

Yes I'm aware of what the argument is, I was just pointing out how irrelavant it is to those who have actually suffered from this disaster. It doesnt matter what the US does, someone is always going to blow holes in it and say it isnt good enough. So why not just focus on the people who have a real reason to complain.....the victims.

Look at the part where the US is last in donations as a percentage of GNP, we are stingy. Is that a bad thing? I don't know.

What the real problem with US foreign aid is not the amount, but the type of spending. We spend billions on emergency disaster relief, but I think the amount we spend on agricultural development in foreign nations was 14 million. There is an applicable saying about training fishermen.

Look at the dollar amounts as opposed to a percentage of GNP. Are any other nations fielding that amount of money? No?

This also does not take into account the private donations that Americans will be making in addition to the tax dollars sent to the disaster area -- a common exclusion whenever foreign aid is discussed.

The US gives about 0.13 percent of its GNP in aid. That is low compared to many countries but not all. However, that does not include the billions and billions of dollars being spent on redevelopment in Afghanistan and Iraq. I think if we were to include that aid the percent of GNP to aid would increase to around 0.45.

Look at the dollar amounts as opposed to a percentage of GNP. Are any other nations fielding that amount of money? No?

This also does not take into account the private donations that Americans will be making in addition to the tax dollars sent to the disaster area -- a common exclusion whenever foreign aid is discussed.
Come on, Kat--the only way to measure immediate aid is in what governments are willing to pony up right away, and when you consider that of the $35 million the US has put up, $20 million is a line of credit, a loan for Christ's sake, we're doing a pretty crappy job as a country. I have no doubt that private individuals in this country will open their wallets and give to help the relief efforts, but in terms of immediate relief, nations are the ones that have to step up now, because they can give more than just cash--they can give bulk supplies and the ability to get those supplies where they're most needed.

Sounds like a tempest in a teapot to me. The UN needs to clean up its own house before throwing stones at anyone else.

1) It was one person's opinion, rather than an official statement.
2) He said WEALTHY COUNTRIES, not the US.
3) There are a lot of wealthy countries in the UN. Therefore, the guy's statement actually implied that the UN should clean up it's act.

Oh yeah, 4) The US is in the UN isn't it? Surely that means that they are cleaning up their own act?

There is a bible parable about a poor woman who gives all she has as an offering and a rich man who gives a enormous offering. Who is more righteous? Jesus states that the woman is, even though her offering was much smaller. Even if you aren't Christian the moral holds true.

It only holds true if you accept altruism as a moral ideal. I do not. And, quite frankly, if people in other countries are going to bitch about how the US government isn't giving enough money to help with the aftermath of the tsunami, then to hell with them. The US didn't cause that earthquake or that tsunami; the US owes nothing to those who died. Be grateful the government is giving anything at all, 'cos if I had it my way the government would neither give foreign aid nor involve itself with other nations in any way.

I know that I will get firce falming by about 50% of the forum but here I go,

http://www.cnn.com/2004/ALLPOLITICS/12/28/stingy.americans.ap/index.html

WTF! I swear the UN really has been pissing me off with there American bashing.

Also on a side noe, this is from CNN who hasnt been the most pro-Bush news company.

And yet the US is contributing more than anyother country! Go figure! 35 Million and that is expected to go up.

So Mr. UN moron, kiss my ass!

It sure as hell wasnt derected at the Europeans. Who else is he talking about in the Western Hemisphere, Costa Rica. If you used your common sense then maybe you could figure it out.

Hey, why is no one picking on France? 136,000 Dollars? Come on!!!

It's percentage of GNP that's important to look at, not overall amount. If it was going to be a fair distribution, the US should give the most. Just sayin'

Why is France giving $136,000 and the US $35,000,000 with more money to come?

Hey, why is no one picking on France? 136,000 Dollars? Come on!!!

Because nobody's actually picking on America either. Read through the article carefully and you'll see the sheer amount of spin they put on one single soundbite.

Referring to the article, the US apparently gives the least percentage out of developed nations.

And we are the richest of any developed nation! Thus our % doesn't mean a thing when compared next to the money of aide given.

Tppt! No surprise here. The US hasn't kept up with its monetary contributions to the UN for quite some time either.

Why should we when the UN doesn't do anything and is a scandal-filled organisation?

OH... you mean like the four storms that hit Florida one after another? Any one know how much foreign aid came our way for that? really, I have no idea if the US got any help for that.

None that I heard about.

As I said before... bash the US but when a catastrophe hits, the first people they turn to is the US.

Amazing isn't it?

Look at the part where the US is last in donations as a percentage of GNP, we are stingy. Is that a bad thing? I don't know.

What the real problem with US foreign aid is not the amount, but the type of spending. We spend billions on emergency disaster relief, but I think the amount we spend on agricultural development in foreign nations was 14 million. There is an applicable saying about training fishermen.

The problem is this doesn't take into account private donations. There are many, primarily US private population funded development programs. I'd like to see if the amounts given by the rest of the world on a private basis + what their respective Gov's give is anywhere close to what the US does. Then we'd be comparing apples to apples.

People seem to forget that the U.S. is built on the principle of individual action and responsibility, not governmental tax and spend programs...

Well, as far as other nations giving aid to the US after a major disaster, I remember there was a major fundraising campaign here in Norway and most parts of Europe after 9/11. But perhaps nobody noticed/remembers? :confused:

Yep. True then we went on the warpath and what? Nothing but scorn and you can't do that and you have to understand where terrorists are coming from BS!!

None that I heard about.

Because you haven't listened enough.

Because nobody's actually picking on America either. Read through the article carefully and you'll see the sheer amount of spin they put on one single soundbite.

I know but if you want stingy, France is being stingy and NOT the US!

Hell, since the Euro is stronger than the dollar, the EU should pony up the money. The EU has a chip in the big game now. Time to start handing out money. I also find it funny that Sri Lanka, which has been ravaged by that tidal wave, has turned down aid from Israel.

Because you haven't listened enough.

K then Canuck! How much did Canada offered the US during the past hurricane season and the 4 storms that clobbered Florida?

I know but if you want stingy, France is being stingy and NOT the US!

So you're singling out France as being stingy, then? Isn't that as unfair as calling the US stingy?

So you're singling out France as being stingy, then? Isn't that as unfair as calling the US stingy?

Not when you look at the dollars being given out!

35 Million from the US
136 Thousand from France

Who is being stingy?

Not when you look at the dollars being given out!

35 Million from the US
136 Thousand from France

Who is being stingy?

But a lot of countries have donated a higher percentage of their GDP than America, without feeling the need to accuse America of being stingy.

K then Canuck! How much did Canada offered the US during the past hurricane season and the 4 storms that clobbered Florida?
A mere pittance, somewhere around 1 million if I recall. The private donations of food and other goods were more. If I recall, Bush said thanks but we can mannage.

But we did offer.

But a lot of countries have donated a higher percentage of their GDP than America, without feeling the need to accuse America of being stingy.

Because they can! If we did too Chicken pi, We would still far outstrip the other nations.We're outdoing other nations now and we haven't even contributed nothing from our GDP.

the vast majority of aid from the united states will come from private organisations. not the government. the UN doesn't understand the US, nor do they want to. they just want an excuse to take shots at us, because we aren't towing their political line :P

A mere pittance, somewhere around 1 million if I recall. The private donations of food and other goods were more. If I recall, Bush said thanks but we can mannage.

But we did offer.

Can I see proof please

the vast majority of aid from the united states will come from private organisations. not the government. the UN doesn't understand the US, nor do they want to. they just want an excuse to take shots at us, because we aren't towing their political line :Pthat and to divert attention from the sealed audits of the Oil-for-food scandal.

that and to divert attention from the sealed audits of the Oil-for-food scandal.

And why the US Congress is doing what it is doing by witholding payments *applauds the government for witholding payments*

And why the US Congress is doing what it is doing by witholding payments *applauds the government for witholding payments*

Trying to maintain pressure and thus exert control over the UN / rest of the world?

Trying to maintain pressure and thus exert control over the UN / rest of the world?

Nope but I don't see why we are making payments to that dust body of an organisation!

Can I see proof please
Not unless you'Re a paying member of the globe and mail.

However, it seems the government pledged aid from the Canadian Red Cross.
No really the same as government fund. It seems you were right in saying my government didn't give money.

Anyway, the point is that there WAS some effort into giving to florida, at least from private parties like the Canadian Red Cross or RBC bank. So when some people claim they didn't get anything, they were having faulty memory.

But that is besides the point of this thread, which was that someone was feeling the US was singled out by what someone said while at the UN when the guy said the western world.

Erm, this is about the Asian tsunami yes?

Well, i guess any form of help is appreciated. As an Asian, I would like to thank on the behalf of all of us here those who have offered help, be it little, or a lot. Every little bit helps.

What I fear now is the rebuilding, and the imminent outbreak of diseases. God bless us all.

OK, a few things.

1) Some people argue that it's only the total amount that matters. This is simply wrong. If Andorra donated $1 million and the US $5 million, would that then mean the US was 5 times as generous as Andorra?

2) Regarding the Florida hurricanes. Until someone actually provides evidence that
a) the US requested help, or even desired aid
b) no aid was donated
Then please, give it a rest. Until there's some kind of evidence either way the whole debate is pointless.

3) Also regarding the Florida hurricanes, please cite evidence of how much US aid was given during the floods in the UK or heatwave & forest fires in much of continental Europe recently. Generally western countries sort out their own problems because they can afford to.

4) The aid is initial emergency aid, no doubt the figure will rise.

6) As others have said, if you don't donate to such causes yourself stop bitching about what other countries do.

7)

THE ARTICLE IS NOT JUST ABOUT THE US

Regarding the Florida hurrincanes......people act like thats the only time the US has had a disaster.But Yeah I'd say it was pretty serious:

Hurricane Hugo was the most expensive tropical cyclone to ever strike America up to that time (1989). Hugo was one of the greatest natural disasters in U.S. history. Damages were estimated at $10 billion - with $7 billion in the United States and $3 billion in the Caribbean. Insured losses stand at $4.2 billion. A week after the storm, 56,000 people were homeless in the Carolina's (FEMA - 1991). Twenty-four South Carolina counties were declared Federal Disaster Areas. As late as 1999, many residents were still rebuilding from one of the mightest tropical cyclones to ever strike America.

I think stripe lovers has got the point. Everyone should read that post and not just ignore it.

Erm, this is about the Asian tsunami yes?

Well, i guess any form of help is appreciated. As an Asian, I would like to thank on the behalf of all of us here those who have offered help, be it little, or a lot. Every little bit helps.

What I fear now is the rebuilding, and the imminent outbreak of diseases. God bless us all.


If only there were more people in the world with attitudes like that. Thankful for gifts, not attacking those who choose not to give, and concerned about the well being of his/her fellow man/woman. I applaud you :)

OK, a few things.

1) Some people argue that it's only the total amount that matters. This is simply wrong. If Andorra donated $1 million and the US $5 million, would that then mean the US was 5 times as generous as Andorra?No, but is it right for people say thank you Andorra, then turn around and say "US, why can't you give more?"

2) Regarding the Florida hurricanes. Until someone actually provides evidence that
a) the US requested help, or even desired aid
b) no aid was donated
Then please, give it a rest. Until there's some kind of evidence either way the whole debate is pointless.Are you suggesting that aid should only be offered or given if the stricken countries ASK or it? If my neighbor's house burns down, weather or not they are "richer" than me or If they ask or don't ask, I will still offer to help. When a Catastophe strikes, we are sending people there before they ask for help. yet you are saying the US needs to ASK for help from others? The mentality of most posters here is US is Rich thus they are on their own but still have to contribute more for others and that is wrong.

3) Also regarding the Florida hurricanes, please cite evidence of how much US aid was given during the floods in the UK or heatwave & forest fires in much of continental Europe recently. Generally western countries sort out their own problems because they can afford to. Honestly, I cannot answer that... but can you answer the Florida or Hawaii Hurricane hits? As I implied, dealings on the Government level may not be made known to everyone. If the US did offer aid to UK for fires and Heatwave (and I know offers were made for the Heatwave that hit Europe, just not the exact figures.)I know little about it and thus not arguing it.

4) The aid is initial emergency aid, no doubt the figure will rise. Surely they will. what gets me is the balls these people have to say the Western states aren't holding their fair share.

6) As others have said, if you don't donate to such causes yourself stop bitching about what other countries do.and since I donated... "Bitch, bitch bitch bitch" :D LOL

7) THE ARTICLE IS NOT JUST ABOUT THE US But it is implied. Make a List of Rich Western Nations and US is on the top of the list. Especially when this isn't the first time it's been brought up..

If only there were more people in the world with attitudes like that. Thankful for gifts, not attacking those who choose not to give, and concerned about the well being of his/her fellow man/woman. I applaud you :)

Hey I said that a page or two ago and got ridiculed for it.

Hey I said that a page or two ago and got ridiculed for it.whoops, sorry, missed your reply to my reply... I wasn't trying to ridicule you. there is another thread about donations and the horror of what happened. It's just that the purpose of this thread was yet another potshot at the western countries and their unwillingness to open their wallets.

No redicule or insult was ment. Sorry.

whoops, sorry, missed your reply to my reply... I wasn't trying to ridicule you. there is another thread about donations and the horror of what happened. It's just that the purpose of this thread was yet another potshot at the western countries and their unwillingness to open their wallets.

No redicule or insult was ment. Sorry.

tis ok :)
I just didnt want the victims to be lost in the shuffle. I didnt see the other thread.

The US is damned if does donate, because no matter how much it does give, it is never enough, and damned if it does not. I would suggest the US stop foreign aid period. If concerned citizens want to help, they should donate money, not forced to give by using tax money.

I know that I will get firce falming by about 50% of the forum but here I go,

http://www.cnn.com/2004/ALLPOLITICS/12/28/stingy.americans.ap/index.html

WTF! I swear the UN really has been pissing me off with there American bashing.

Also on a side noe, this is from CNN who hasnt been the most pro-Bush news company.
I have 2 issues with your post. 1)What is a firce falming? 2)Don't even try to tell me CNN is pro-Bush. Don't even try.

tis ok :)
I just didnt want the victims to be lost in the shuffle. I didnt see the other thread.
:fluffle:

Funny thing is the United States will contribute more than all the other nations combined and people will still piss and moan about it not being enough. Fuck that, go ask the UN for money.

I have 2 issues with your post. 1)What is a firce falming? 2)Don't even try to tell me CNN is pro-Bush. Don't even try.Firce Falming? thats when you start a hot Fier and get the Balze so hot that its past Fierce but Firce. (Soo bad it's puposefully mispelled.)

and 2) he's not. CNN? Support Bush?! LOL :D

Funny thing is the United States will contribute more than all the other nations combined and people will still piss and moan about it not being enough. Fuck that, go ask the UN for money.

I second it!

Funny thing is the United States will contribute more than all the other nations combined and people will still piss and moan about it not being enough. Fuck that, go ask the UN for money.THEY CAN'T cuz it's the UN that is Pissing and Moaning.

They embezzled too much of their money! :D

THEY CAN'T cuz it's the UN that is Pissing and Moaning.

They embezzled too much of their money! :D

:D So friggin true :D

The anti-American bullshit is reaching an all-time high around here. I have seen Bush blamed for the earthquake, the deaths, and now, for not spending our entire GNP on relief for people in other nations. Fuck that, go ask the UN!

The anti-American bullshit is reaching an all-time high around here. I have seen Bush blamed for the earthquake, the deaths, and now, for not spending our entire GNP on relief for people in other nations. Fuck that, go ask the UN!
lol I did have one guy blame SUV's for it (he had not heard the story beyond a roumor and thought it was a flood (global warming))
Then he found out it was an earthquake :P lol he looked silly (it is in the SUV thread floating around here)

lol I did have one guy blame SUV's for it (he had not heard the story beyond a roumor and thought it was a flood (global warming))
Then he found out it was an earthquake :P lol he looked silly (it is in the SUV thread floating around here)
Ahh, wacko enviromentalists never cease to ammuse. Idiots. :rolleyes:

lol I did have one guy blame SUV's for it (he had not heard the story beyond a roumor and thought it was a flood (global warming))
Then he found out it was an earthquake :P lol he looked silly (it is in the SUV thread floating around here)is that the thread where GW Bush is blamed for the flooding of an Island that is 13 ft above sealevel? :D

is that the thread where GW Bush is blamed for the flooding of an Island that is 13 ft above sealevel? :D
of course, and did you know that neo-cons will be feasting on the flesh of the dead?

OH... you mean like the four storms that hit Florida one after another? Any one know how much foreign aid came our way for that? really, I have no idea if the US got any help for that.
.

Being as I live in a chunk of Florida that was Hurricane visited.

I met several Canadians who were down here simply to help with the aftermath. An Aussie, two Norwegians, etc...

Being as I live in a chunk of Florida that was Hurricane visited.

I met several Canadians who were down here simply to help with the aftermath. An Aussie, two Norwegians, etc...Kewl. Sorta wonder why things like that wasn't broadcast... at least here in Hawaii. :)

No, but is it right for people say thank you Andorra, then turn around and say "US, why can't you give more?"

Yes, basically. It's right to ask any wealthy nation that question if their donation is deemed to be insufficient. Of course, any nation that does so needs to be sure they're donating a sizeable enough amount. But it has to be proportionate to GDP. Otherwise it just gets absurd: French minister "well we're only donating $126,000 because that's what Lesotho's offering".

Are you suggesting that aid should only be offered or given if the stricken countries ASK or it? If my neighbor's house burns down, weather or not they are "richer" than me or If they ask or don't ask, I will still offer to help. When a Catastophe strikes, we are sending people there before they ask for help. yet you are saying the US needs to ASK for help from others? The mentality of most posters here is US is Rich thus they are on their own but still have to contribute more for others and that is wrong.

Well it's standard diplomatic etiquette not to offer aid unless asked, since to do so runs the risk of a state that does not want aid off the country in question either:

a) having to take it, and thus have a PR problem at home (either because the offering state is unpopular, or because it implies the government cannot cope)
b) refusing, which would be deemed a snub in the donating country

If France had offered aid to the US without being asked you'd either have US citizens wondering why their own government doesn't have enough funds, and so must take them from cheese eating surrender-monkeys, or else the French being pissed about perceived US arrogance.

Honestly, I cannot answer that... but can you answer the Florida or Hawaii Hurricane hits? As I implied, dealings on the Government level may not be made known to everyone. If the US did offer aid to UK for fires and Heatwave (and I know offers were made for the Heatwave that hit Europe, just not the exact figures.)I know little about it and thus not arguing it.

I can't answer the US hurricane hits, which is why I've declined comment either way (except for the hypothetical statement above).

Surely they will. what gets me is the balls these people have to say the Western states aren't holding their fair share.

Maybe we are, maybe we aren't. What's a fair share? It's a tough question, but that doesn't mean it's not worth asking.

and since I donated... "Bitch, bitch bitch bitch" :D LOL

Fair play. I haven't but then I wouldn't know how to. No CC and no charities here, AFAIK, are collecting. And Paypal won't accept Bank of China.

But it is implied. Make a List of Rich Western Nations and US is on the top of the list. Especially when this isn't the first time it's been brought up..

Well, that's your reading. I didn't see it, especially since the official in question stated openly that he wasn't singling out any countries. I prefer not to argue about insults unless the insult is clear.

How dare they call us stingy we've given more then anyone else Canada only gave $4,000,000. Why don't they call them stingy.

How dare they call us stingy we've given more then anyone else Canada only gave $4,000,000. Why don't they call them stingy.

And France $136,000

don't worry no one expect generosity from the us.

The US gives about 40% of the entire worlds humanitarian relief money.

The US gives about 40% of the entire worlds humanitarian relief money.

Yep and still the UN and the rest of the world bitch we're not giving enough!

http://www.oecd.org/dataoecd/42/61/31504039.pdf

The numbers speak for themselves.

Quote {hahahah, holy crap, I can't beliive that canada only gave 4 million dollars in the begining... hee hee hee

I am from Australia, I am not sure about the figures in other countries , but we began with 25 million AUS then another 10 million AUS and we still intend to give at least another 40 or 50 million AUS... and we sure as hell dun make anywhere near as much money as the US do.

but more importantly as far as I am concerned the US as a governmental regime are about as assinine as the Australians as a Governmental regime which is even more assinine then the previous statements by Terronian. hahah

and lastly I hate the US cos they do WAY too much
bombing

hee hee, thats all from me for now... }

First of all, you shouldn't HATE the U.S. What do you even know about the United States? All you probabally hear are biased statements from biased news channells. There is far too much hate in the world already for people to be going around hating things they know little about.

Secondly, how do you know how much money your government is planning to give? I do not agree with the "small" amount we have given, but I have no control over that. I also think that it isn't the rest of the world's buisness to be complaining about how much money the US is giving. That is like watching everyone in a church put their money in the offerning plate, and then if they didn't seem to put "enough" in yout eyes, you would fuss them out. Unexceptable? INDEED!

Lastly, I would like to send my deepest sympathy to any of you who knew anyone involved in the Tsunami. You and your loved ones are in my prayers.

http://www.oecd.org/dataoecd/42/61/31504039.pdf

The numbers speak for themselves.

Your right! They do. According to your chart though we are last in regards to amount spent on GDP for relief, we still give more money than any other nation! Thanks for proving that point!

Don't Believe me? Numbers:

US 15,791
Norway 2043
Canada 2209
Belgium 1887
Japan 8911
Britain 6116

All figures in US$m

Newsflash to those that cant read a chart: The US sucks in percentual terms, and owns in gross figures.

Take your conclusions out of that.

Yep and still the UN and the rest of the world bitch we're not giving enough!
well the us also spends about 40% of the world's defense money, and rummie et al still bitch that we're not spending enough

Newsflash to those that cant read a chart: The US sucks in percentual terms, and owns in gross figures.

Take your conclusions out of that.

Read your own chart Portu Cale!

US is still spending more on relief than any other country! Eat that!

Read your own chart Portu Cale!

US is still spending more on relief than any other country! Eat that!

I believe that you should grasp the concept "percentual".

In percent of GDP, the US ranks 21th in foreign aid.

But you are correct, im hungry. Gonna grab something to eat. An apple, maybe.

I believe that you should grasp the concept "percentual".

Doesn't matter! When it comes to actual amounts, the USA spends more than any other country. Sorry your having trouble understanding that!

In percent of GDP, the US ranks 21th in foreign aid.\

doesn't matter. We still pay more!

But you are correct, im hungry. Gonna grab something to eat. An apple, maybe.

Have fun!

Doesn't matter! When it comes to actual amounts, the USA spends more than any other country. Sorry your having trouble understanding that!

\

doesn't matter. We still pay more!



Have fun!

"bites apple"

Yep, you dont understand the concept of percentages.

Okay, still if you want, the European Union combined gives more aid than the US.


Note that i posted the graph as information, i didnt took a "side" on the discussion. You have some sort of persecution paranoia?

"bites apple"

Is it good?

Yep, you dont understand the concept of percentages.

Understand them just fine but I guess you don't realize that percentages don't mean much when your comparing how much money nations sent!

Okay, still if you want, the European Union combined gives more aid than the US.

And when they start referring to all european nations as the EU then maybe you can claim that but since they are not... your point is invalid!

Note that i posted the graph as information, i didnt took a "side" on the discussion. You have some sort of persecution paranoia?

I know that but you stated that the numbers speak for themselves and I was pointing out that it does indeed.

Is it good?



Understand them just fine but I guess you don't realize that percentages don't mean much when your comparing how much money nations sent!



And when they start referring to all european nations as the EU then maybe you can claim that but since they are not... your point is invalid!



I know that but you stated that the numbers speak for themselves and I was pointing out that it does indeed.

a) Kinda green. But juicy.
B) It compares how much effort they put in their aid. Duhhh! It takes a lot more effort for a small economy to give away a larger percentage of their wealth, than for a huge economy to give away pocket change. And the US doesnt try that much, so it can keep all that conversation of "we try hard". You dont, you are just big. Yes, that has the very laudable advantage of turning you into the single largest contributer

c) Okay, then since every nation in the world has a smaller economy than the one of the US, your point that the US gives more is also invalid.

Out of curiosity, out of all you people having your dick size contest amongst countries, two questions.

1) Did you donate anything? If not, fuck off. Don't come back to this topic.
2) Did the article say "the US is stingy" in those words? Or did it IMPLY it? If you answer with the latter, fuck off. You obviously can't read, you have a persecution complex, and you need to spend some time exploring the World Outside Your Ass.

The Europe form of looking on it, huh. :rolleyes:

There is a bible parable about a poor woman who gives all she has as an offering and a rich man who gives a enormous offering. Who is more righteous? Jesus states that the woman is, even though her offering was much smaller. Even if you aren't Christian the moral holds true.
I would be surprised if this hasn't already been said on the thread, but I can't be bothered to read through the pages... Very likely flaming, where Americans put forward empty facts and try and interpret them, and Europeans give strong points but rarely have very little fact to back it up and when it is given, the Americans refuse to believe it... soooooo:

I'm pretty sure this post was made to contradict the (what looks like very common) theme of US 'LOOK HOW GENEROUS WE ARE!' of A. So yeah, the Bible parable?

I don't donate a lot of money because I feel that only those who can be helped should be helped. Not many worthy charities out there, hence the reason I 'forgot' to buy the new Band Aid single (call me a bastard, a lot of other people have), but I will be donating a lot of money to this cause. Maybe Europeans are just more sensible with how the spend their money than others?

...LMAO

http://www.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml?type=topNews&storyID=7202540&pageNumber=0

I only got to page 7 before the flaming got boring. I was surprised at how few people commented on the need for aid in forms other than as cash. Cash in a developing country gets swallowed by the middle-men and corrupt officials (I'm currently living and working in China). Only a very small percentage arrives where it is supposed to go. The giving of food or 'items' is a good stopgap measure, with exceptions, but in the end the best overall aid anyone can give is in training and knowledge.
We can't bring the dead back to life, nor have much of an impact on the numbers that will die from disease, but if the people of the region are given the expertise they need to deal with disasters in the future, then the next one will be far less costly.

This is more how Australia's aid works. Up until the end of last year, my mother was in charge of all of Australias aid to SE Asia and I imagine she is being sought out for advice in the current situation. The giving of knowledge and expertise is far more cost effective too as the cost of sending over professionals to train the locals is far less than the millions/billions that nations give as cash. This may well be why the US gives so little if it realises that the majority of what is given will not make it to where it is needed. I do not know how much emphasis is given to training and development in compensation for the low amount of cash though. (I realise that others have said that the amount of cash given by corporations/individuals greatly improves the overall US amount, and I'm sure the US govt. relies on this to boost its aid figures, but I think its valid to look at aid given by the governement alone as an indication of national financial commitment)

On the point of food aid, someone complained about US food rotting in warehouses in various countries where the people desperately need it. Again, this is a middle-man problem - someone who is trying to make money out of the misfortune of others or just a complete lack of knowledge about distribution/management. A further issue I remember reading about is with GM crops. correct me if I'm wrong, but I think I remember reading that the seeds are patented and that no-one is allowed to grow a crop from GM seeds - they have to buy it (which is impossible due to cost/income disparity) or risk getting fined (which is unaffordable in a developing or 3rd world country) or go to jail - thereby leaving the family without a primary provider. The end result of using GM crops as aid is that the nation becomes dependant on its continued supply, and therefore risks becoming a protectorate in all but name of the nation supplying it.

yes... apparently somebody has hurt the USA. Saying 'THE WEST DOESN'T GIVE ENOUGH' is directly hurting the US of A. The fucking most delecate country in the world. You are not stingy then mates, France is more stingy, You won. huzzah for you!

This is indeed a race.

Carry on.

the US was insulted because it wasn't simply that the WEst does not give enough.. the comment was.. the UNITED STATES WAS BEING STINGY... the direct singling out of the united states.. especially when the United states provides 40% of world wide emergency aid. and again.. that only accounts for the funds given by the US government.. the citizens themselves are far more generous and normally more hten double government donations..

even more insulting.. the UN offical suggested that the US citizen should be taxed MORE.. so that MORE of our money could be given in foregin aid.. how outragous and pretentious is that.. by giving directly from the citizenry we avoid the mass corruption which usually occurs in the government beurorcacies..

The greed of some people is truely limitless

The greed of some people is truely limitless

Specially yours and even more bad the way you lie about it.

The greed of some people is truely limitless
Thats Americans for you.

http://www.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml?type=topNews&storyID=7202540&pageNumber=0
Since I doubt too many people clicked on the link, I'll add that it's a list of what the different countries have pledged in aid thus far. I'll just note that the EU has pledged 33 million Euros, which at the current exchange rate, is significantly more than the $15 million dollars the US has pledged ($35 million if you count the $20 million line of credit--read "loan"--they've also offered).

So, how many of you that just commented have donated anything?

Any of you? Any? Common. I know Incert has, anyone else?

15 euros. stingy, i know... but i gotta eat too...

the US was insulted because it wasn't simply that the WEst does not give enough.. the comment was.. the UNITED STATES WAS BEING STINGY... the direct singling out of the united states.. especially when the United states provides 40% of world wide emergency aid. and again.. that only accounts for the funds given by the US government.. the citizens themselves are far more generous and normally more hten double government donations..

even more insulting.. the UN offical suggested that the US citizen should be taxed MORE.. so that MORE of our money could be given in foregin aid.. how outragous and pretentious is that.. by giving directly from the citizenry we avoid the mass corruption which usually occurs in the government beurorcacies..

The greed of some people is truely limitless

It wasn't, you asshat

Edit: I won't take that flame back (sorry there). But please show me where UN officials say that.

Why is France giving $136,000 and the US $35,000,000 with more money to come?

Do I care? I'm not responsible for France's aid figure. I'm not French. The original statement was directed at all western countries, and I agree. France should give more. But so should the US.

And we are the richest of any developed nation! Thus our % doesn't mean a thing when compared next to the money of aide given.

Yes it does. A percentage figure is fair. If the US can get away with giving .15% of it's GNP as foreign aid and say "But we give more in total so we're better!!! We're so much more generous!!!" To a nation giving close to 1%, that's simply bullshit. If the US wants to continue being the world's only superpower, it has to take on the responsibility of one.

A percentage figure is fair. Why should smaller nations have to bend over backwards to reach a lump-sum target?

I disagree.

GNP percentages dont mean shit. .dude...GNP % are the shit

If you expect CostaRica to give as much as the USA...your brain is flawed (quik go get a refund)

The United States is offering $35 million, Japan $30 million and the United Kingdom $28 million. Australia and Germany have pledged $27 million, France $20.4 million and Saudi Arabia $10 million.


Some guys (don't mean you) deliberatly forget to count the 30million of the EU towards this seperate donations of member states. So in total those EU nations donnation is far more huge then the US one.

BTW I find the donations of the EU, US aso ridiculous when we see that the inouguration of Bush will be a 40 million party. We should give billions, not millions.

BTW I hope the US citizens will join the EU, Japan and Austraila while having a 3 minutes sillence at monday january 3 in memory of the victims. Those people in the region did it even for a few deaths at theTwinTowers,remember.

Or is a US life more worth then a Asian one

....Those people in the region did it even for a few deaths at theTwinTowers,remember.

Or is a US life more worth then a Asian oneIsthatatrickquestion?
:confused:

Isthatatrickquestion?
:confused:
i dont think so
why would it be?

Common guys, quit bickering about the petty statements of petty bureaucrats and try to be a little human here. A lot of people are suffering and irrespective of whether they helped us when we needed help in Florida or 9/11, we should reach out and give what we can, even if it's only pennies:

Here's a really good link for information and for telling you how you can help:

http://tsunamihelp.blogspot.com/

Yes it does. A percentage figure is fair. If the US can get away with giving .15% of it's GNP as foreign aid and say "But we give more in total so we're better!!! We're so much more generous!!!" To a nation giving close to 1%, that's simply bullshit. If the US wants to continue being the world's only superpower, it has to take on the responsibility of one.

A percentage figure is fair. Why should smaller nations have to bend over backwards to reach a lump-sum target?
We want to be a Cheapo Superpower

Bush gives cheapo tips
:gundge:

Still waiting. YOu guys keep posting, none of you are answering my questions. Well, one did, and I thank you for that.

What about the rest of you? You're eager to tear down nations and rant about other peolpe being stingy. Did you donate anything? If not, just SAY so. Stop blatently ignoring me.

Still waiting. YOu guys keep posting, none of you are answering my questions. Well, one did, and I thank you for that.

What about the rest of you? You're eager to tear down nations and rant about other peolpe being stingy. Did you donate anything? If not, just SAY so. Stop blatently ignoring me.
I wasn't one of them...but I have. I just wanted to give you noble people a hint how to help even more efficiently...
If you can afford to give money to any organisations please do it regularly through your bank. It's pretty expensive to organise fund raising campaigns, all the people, ads etc. E.g. Unicef prefers this system. Then of course you can donate more in emergency situations like this.

I wasn't one of them...but I have. I just wanted to give you noble people a hint how to help even more efficiently...
If you can afford to give money to any organisations please do it regularly through your bank. It's pretty expensive to organise fund raising campaigns, all the people, ads etc. E.g. Unicef prefers this system. Then of course you can donate more in emergency situations like this.

I try to, though as a simple pizza making college boy there isn't much TOO give...even less now heh. I tend to go mainly towards Red Cross, it being the most well known.

I'm just sick of everyone trying to make this a dick waving contest, when I doubt half of them have given anything as it is. To try and politicize it, THEN have the audacity not to give anything yourself...it's just plain disgusting.

I try to, though as a simple pizza making college boy there isn't much TOO give...even less now heh. I tend to go mainly towards Red Cross, it being the most well known.

I'm just sick of everyone trying to make this a dick waving contest, when I doubt half of them have given anything as it is. To try and politicize it, THEN have the audacity not to give anything yourself...it's just plain disgusting.
And so common. A lot of them actually bash people who donate money. Like why should I care. I'm much smarter and spend my money on booze! Yay! New Year's Eve! Booze!

Still waiting. YOu guys keep posting, none of you are answering my questions. Well, one did, and I thank you for that.

What about the rest of you? You're eager to tear down nations and rant about other peolpe being stingy. Did you donate anything? If not, just SAY so. Stop blatently ignoring me.
continues ignoring god tree

Forget it Goed... it's a race... your contribution however admirable, is nought...as far as France gave less.

Well, at the very least, you're speaking worlds about yourselves.

And so common. A lot of them actually bash people who donate money. Like why should I care. I'm much smarter and spend my money on booze! Yay! New Year's Eve! Booze!
Yeah, I'm the only one donating anything from my family. It's rediculous. The hypocracy you see day to day from people is just horrible.

Still waiting. YOu guys keep posting, none of you are answering my questions. Well, one did, and I thank you for that.What ever are you talking about?...There is way too many posts...

if you are so desperate to get answers...at least tell us the friggin number....or even better link-it...

I try to, though as a simple pizza making college boy there isn't much TOO give...even less now heh. I tend to go mainly towards Red Cross, it being the most well known.

I'm a poor student myself. I get paid on the 4th every month and my bank transfers a small amount every 5th so I'll have some money left om my account. I feel like I couldn't really afford it, but then again I have everything I need. I can skip one night out and donate that money. (For some odd reason everyone always find money for beer and cigs.)

What ever are you talking about?...There is way too many posts...

if you are so desperate to get answers...at least tell us the friggin number....or even better link-it...

I've been asking who actually donated anything. ALl these people here, bitching about what contry donated the most...and yet nobody wants to come out and say that THEY donated anything.

I'm a poor student myself. I get paid on the 4th every month and my bank transfers a small amount every 5th so I'll have some money left om my account. I feel like I couldn't really afford it, but then again I have everything I need. I can skip one night out and donate that money. (For some odd reason everyone always find money for beer and cigs.)
Heh, I don't drink or smoke, and I get discounts from work whenever I really need variaty, so I'm not that badly off money wise. Of course, I also take the bus, so I don't need to pay for car insurance or a car itself :p

I've been asking who actually donated anything. ALl these people here, bitching about what contry donated the most...and yet nobody wants to come out and say that THEY donated anything.

Well Goed,

I have no desire to go through this thread again... but I remember somebody saying they donated 50 bucks, and somebody 25...me, i laid 15 euros... and i bet there were 100 euros worth alledegly along the way.

If we all did as we say... this thread is worth 250+ euros/bucks. That is not bad, I bet that amount is needed.

Otherwise... What an asshattery this thread is...

I've been following this thread, and I'm just seeing it go in circles. Does it matter how much a country donates? What percent of its GNP it donates? No. What matters is it was willing to help a county in need; be it giving $136,000 (who cares if this is a "paltry" sum? It was a donation nonetheless.) or $35 million. People shouldn't be complaining about what they received (have you ever given money to a homeless person? Would you really expect them to respond, "Thats IT? Come on, you're rich, you can do better than that!); they should be thankful for what they received :) .

Whilst the government may not give a lump sum, or a large lump sum, private organizations and private citizens can make a difference. The donation a government makes to a country in need does not represent the countries generosity as a whole. (I know this has been said before, but I felt the need to restate it.)

As for the numerous other people trying to prove this point; I applaud you. :D

Yes, the comments WERE anti-American. You certainly don't have to say the word "America" to reference us. We had given 'preliminary' aid to the nations, because we're frugal enough to realize that just tossing money at nations in turmoil wouldn't do any good, since what was being done is all that COULD be done for the time being. The USA, which by the way, IS the main source of funding for the UN, is always put down by the UN and its members. The UN member who criticized the US for its small initial donation, realized the stupidity of his remark, and retracted it yesterday. The US gives more to other countries than ANY COUNTRY IN HISTORY HAS EVER GIVEN. So just in case any of you morons decide to continue bashing America for being greedy, you really can just shut up. No one gives more than us, and no one takes more crap than us from the rest of you ingrates. :headbang:

So, you feel better now when You have given more than anybody in history Duke?

Yes, the comments WERE anti-American. You certainly don't have to say the word "America" to reference us.
Watch and learn, as I make an anti-american statement.

I don't like zebras.

OMFG How dare I attack America so much!

We had given 'preliminary' aid to the nations, because we're frugal enough to realize that just tossing money at nations in turmoil wouldn't do any good, since what was being done is all that COULD be done for the time being.
Yes. What those countries need right now is nothing. I'm sorry folks, but the cash your sending? Lets face it, all they can REALLY do with it is buy food, shelter, warmth, and clothing. And who the fuck needs THAT?!

The USA, which by the way, IS the main source of funding for the UN, is always put down by the UN and its members.
Ahhhh-a lot of people don't understand this logic. Let me explain it for them.

Take Biilly and Joe. Billy says "Hey Joe, lets go get some ice cream." Joe says "Naw man, we don't have any cash." Billy promptly socks Joe in the face for being such a hate filled bigot. I mean, it was obvious Joe was trying to start shit with Billy.

The UN member who criticized the US for its small initial donation, realized the stupidity of his remark, and retracted it yesterday.
I'm actually not gonna make a joke aimed at your stupidity and ignorance here. Instead I'll simply say "Link please!"

The US gives more to other countries than ANY COUNTRY IN HISTORY HAS EVER GIVEN.
For starters, TALKING IN CAPS DOESN'T AUTOMATICALLY MAKE YOU RIGHT! UNDERSTAND? GOOD! NOW, ON TO other topics. Once again, can you provide a link saying "OMFG USA roxxors the big one!111"

So just in case any of you morons decide to continue bashing America for being greedy, you really can just shut up.
Mommmmyyyyyy! Finland is making fun of me T_T. Tell them they have to be nice!

No one gives more than us, and no one takes more [size=1]crap[/size than us from the rest of you ingrates. :headbang:
Just thought I'd splice things a bit. Make it a bit more honest, you know?

Well Goed,

I have no desire to go through this thread again... but I remember somebody saying they donated 50 bucks, and somebody 25...me, i laid 15 euros... and i bet there were 100 euros worth alledegly along the way.

If we all did as we say... this thread is worth 250+ euros/bucks. That is not bad, I bet that amount is needed.

Otherwise... What an asshattery this thread is...

I can gurentee it's more then $250 :D

Yes, the comments WERE anti-American. You certainly don't have to say the word "America" to reference us. We had given 'preliminary' aid to the nations, because we're frugal enough to realize that just tossing money at nations in turmoil wouldn't do any good, since what was being done is all that COULD be done for the time being. The USA, which by the way, IS the main source of funding for the UN, is always put down by the UN and its members. The UN member who criticized the US for its small initial donation, realized the stupidity of his remark, and retracted it yesterday. The US gives more to other countries than ANY COUNTRY IN HISTORY HAS EVER GIVEN. So just in case any of you morons decide to continue bashing America for being greedy, you really can just shut up. No one gives more than us, and no one takes more crap than us from the rest of you ingrates. :headbang:
What ever. US actually owns money to UN...
http://www.globalpolicy.org/finance/info/usdebt.htm

edit that's also more than anyone else. /edit

Mommmmyyyyyy! Finland is making fun of me T_T. Tell them they have to be nice!

Nopes... We try to be as neutral as we can be. It's just bullshit we are not used to take/have.

Nopes... We try to be as neutral as we can be. It's just bullshit we are not used to take/have.
The outskirts of Finland seconds

lol
Helioterra, Let's try and not look as the social-democrat death posse as we are.

lol
Helioterra, Let's try and not look as the social-democrat death posse as we are.
ok
*disguised*

ok
*disguised*

*sniffle* I'm onto you! I know you're just a big meanie, making fun of me in the UN! You can just shut up! Shut up! Meanie head! My army's bigger then yours, meanie, so shut up!

*sniffle* I'm onto you! I know you're just a big meanie, making fun of me in the UN! You can just shut up! Shut up! Meanie head! My army's bigger then yours, meanie, so shut up!
krrrhm...I can tell you this much:
I'm not the president of our country...(gooosh)

haha, big army...
I remember the Russians saying something quite similar ;)

We shall just neglect that tantrum, shan't we H?

But I never make fun of the UN´. It needs an overhaul for sure. But if we don't have the UN... ...then we don't have the UN... umm...

haha, big army...
I remember the Russians saying something quite similar ;)
Don't even go there...

krrrhm...I can tell you this much:
I'm not the president of our country...(gooosh)

haha, big army...
I remember the Russians saying something quite similar ;)

But THEY were the bad guys, and WE'RE the good guys, which means we always win! Always! Even when we're losing, we're actually winning!

Anyone who tells you otherwise is a communist. Or a terrorist. I don't remember which we hate right now. Maybe british? We hated them at one point. French?

I need to write this stuff down...

Oh yes. The God was in our side. Apparently the French were on the other side...

EDIT: I'm just happy we slayed the french there. They are stingy.

Don't even go there...
to Russia? Hell no, they are evil communists!

(I put the smiley to point out that I really don't want to have a conversation about it...or be honest either. Disguised, you remember)

UN is quote byrocratic and I don't like that anyone has veto rights but I'm pretty much pro it anyway. I don't know if anything would happen if it would cease to exist but I want a high paid profession within the organisation first...

Oh yes. The God was in our side. Apparently the French were on the other side...

EDIT: I'm just happy we slayed the french there. They are stingy.
right on :D

No man. It's the french who are the enemy now. Pay attention.

EDIT: I so hate that French-Norwegian Jan Engeland who dared to say you all western countries are stingy (I just decided west begins 10 inch west of me. So!? Argue me!).

No man. It's the french who are the enemy now. Pay attention.

EDIT: I so hate that French-Norwegian Jan Engeland who dared to say you all western countries are stingy (I just decided west begins 10 inch west of me. So!? Argue me!).
Pretty clever plot from a french-norwegian bloke...I so hate the Norwegians too! Did they offer any help after US had to face four deadly hurriganes? no...they just keep drilling their precious oil and fishing their smelly cod. norsk torsk

Willing to bet H (morbid, I know)? 120 of us dead there, no?

EDIT: And Yes, the Norwegians never helped USA!. They are either French or muslims, the lot of them! And now this Jan Engeland is calling you (well, not you, but the whole western world... but USA to you few in this thread) stingy. BASTARDS!

Willing to bet H (morbid, I know)? 120 of us dead there, no?
maybe even more..I say 158.

hehe I just noticed I'm pimp. \o/

.. the citizens themselves are far more generous and normally more hten double government donations..

Can you say $ 240 Billion in private charitable contributins in 2003?
http://www.aafrc.org/about_aafrc/bysourceof66.html

US Gov gave around 15 Billion in 2003, not counting emergency funding and reconstruction monies in Afganistan or Iraq.

So citizens out gave the Federal government 16:1

Any other countries out there have citizens who donate 2.4% of the GNP?

Can you say $ 240 Billion in private charitable contributins in 2003?

Yes I can. $ 240 Billion in private charitable contributins in 2003.


You won. Now get over it.

Can you say $ 240 Billion in private charitable contributins in 2003?
http://www.aafrc.org/about_aafrc/bysourceof66.html

US Gov gave around 15 Billion in 2003, not counting emergency funding and reconstruction monies in Afganistan or Iraq.

So citizens out gave the Federal government 16:1

Any other countries out there have citizens who donate 2.4% of the GNP?

How many of those charitable donations were to domestic charities, namely those which perform the role filled by the welfare state in countries such as the UK, France, etc, though? (also I think vastly more money goes to religious organisations in the US than the UK at the least and probably quite a few of the more secular european countries)

NB: I don't think reconstruction funding counts for Aghanistan & Iraq as the Us more or less made it a political necessity to fund rebuilding in the latter in particular after the damage done.

NB2: UN / Reuters figures for Tsunami aid donations (the EU figure is from the organisation, not including the pledges of the individual nations - good to see that Canada and France seem to have significantly upped their aid, too)
EU $44m
US: $35m
Canada: $33m
Japan: $30m
UK: $28.9m
Australia: $27m
France: $20.4m
Denmark: $15.6m
Saudi Arabia: $10m
Norway: $6.6m
Taiwan: $5.1m
Finland: $3.4m
Kuwait: $2.1m
Netherlands: $2.6m
UAE: $2m
Ireland $1.3m
Singapore: $1.2m

Still waiting. YOu guys keep posting, none of you are answering my questions. Well, one did, and I thank you for that.

What about the rest of you? You're eager to tear down nations and rant about other peolpe being stingy. Did you donate anything? If not, just SAY so. Stop blatently ignoring me.

Didn't mean to ignore you, since I'd stated earlier that I hadn't. I would like to, if I could. If anyone knows how I can donate from China with no credit card but a Bank of China account please, let me know (not a snotty response, a genuine question). I'm not going to mail anything, though, I trust China Post about as far as I can throw them (not very far).

Didn't mean to ignore you, since I'd stated earlier that I hadn't. I would like to, if I could. If anyone knows how I can donate from China with no credit card but a Bank of China account please, let me know (not a snotty response, a genuine question). I'm not going to mail anything, though, I trust China Post about as far as I can throw them (not very far).

Well obviously you can't donate. It's ok. As long as you remember France sucks.

Read your own chart Portu Cale!

US is still spending more on relief than any other country! Eat that!You have completely missed the point. Per Capita, the Us is giving LESS than anyone else on the chart. We can most afford to give, and are giving the least. THAT is the point.

You have completely missed the point. Per Capita, the Us is giving LESS than anyone else on the chart. We can most afford to give, and are giving the least. THAT is the point.
There is a point? 16 pages of "we are more charitable than you - - na na na!"

There is a point? 16 pages of "we are more charitable than you - - na na na!"
. <-- point

Well obviously you can't donate. It's ok. As long as you remember France sucks.

Remember France sucks? I'm English. It would be phyiscally impossible for me not to remember that France sucks. It's built into our genes.

Remember France sucks? I'm English. It would be phyiscally impossible for me not to remember that France sucks. It's built into our genes.
Well, that's a happy thing then. What could be merrier than long history of France-bashing.

Let us keep in mind that...well I can't be arsed to find out the names of people in this thread who are the best... but you wouldn't believe how much they and their country contribute. It's astonishing. They are saintly.

Well, that's a happy thing then. What could be merrier than long history of France-bashing.

Let us keep in mind that...well I can't be arsed to find out the names of people in this thread who are the best... but you wouldn't believe how much they and their country contribute. It's astonishing. They are saintly.
I bet my county donates more than yours! You are stingy!

hey all Americans! Start a race between states! Does Florida donate more than Ohio? Is North Dakota stingy? gasp!

Well, that is wrong. USA gives much. And the people there give even more. I'm just on about the 'we gave the most' attitude.

Well, that is wrong. USA gives much. And the people there give even more. I'm just on about 'we gave more' attitude.
But they could argue against each other if they's start a race between states (about who gave more, who less) it would stop the bashing between countries.

But they could argue against each other if they's start a race between states (about who gave more, who less) it would stop the bashing between countries.
Right, well... that is in referance to EU?

Who cares who gives... as long as we give. Pisses me off to listen to European news where they ramble about tourists killed... Howsabout the people left in there? They are ass over elbow helping the westerners and their whole livelihood is gone. Sad.

Well, that's a happy thing then. What could be merrier than long history of France-bashing.


I know, how can people on this message board continue to bash a country over and over again with the same arguements. Okay, now where were we..oh ya.

BUSH IS THE DEVIL
U.S. IS GREEDY
RUMSFELD ATE YOUR BABY

RUMSFELD ATE YOUR BABY
So that's where it went...

Right, well... that is in referance to EU?

Who cares who gives... as long as we give. Pisses me off to listen to European news where they ramble about tourists killed... Howsabout the people left in there? They are ass over elbow helping the westerners and their whole livelihood is gone. Sad.
I was mad when they told about the first 2 Finnish victims. They told it before they even bothered to mention that about 22 000 (at the time) others were killed. And they keep talking about the Finns all the time. Of course it's horrible for their relatives etc but they don't have live there. They haven't lost their homes, jobs, boats, absolutely everything.

I was mad when they told about the first 2 Finnish victims. They told it before they even bothered to mention that about 22 000 (at the time) others were killed. And they keep talking about the Finns all the time. Of course it's horrible for their relatives etc but they don't have live there. They haven't lost their homes, jobs, boats, absolutely everything.
Well, when the total tally of 200 of us dead lands... we'll be wiser. Still it leaves 100.000+ people there lost/killed. How many does that affect... dang.

Well, that's a happy thing then. What could be merrier than long history of France-bashing.


Well it's the only thing that keeps us warm on long winter nights, what with our inadequate central heating and all.

I'm serious about donating, though. If anyone has any advice let me know.

I have the feeling that Americans, through both government relief and private charity, will donate far, far more than anyone else to the tsunami victims.

I see that France has still offered less money than my house is worth, so that's really generous on their part. Gives you that warm fuzzy feeling, doesn't it?

actually, the us is the lead donater and contributer to this disaster, which kind of surprises me, considering there all "them asian folk" as i wouldve thought most wouldve ignored.



you know for some reason, im trying to care and somehow feel affected by this... but... meh, not finding anything.

I have the feeling that Americans, through both government relief and private charity, will donate far, far more than anyone else to the tsunami victims.

I see that France has still offered less money than my house is worth, so that's really generous on their part. Gives you that warm fuzzy feeling, doesn't it?
You need to read the updated numbers--France has now made a quite sizable pledge, both on its own and through the EU. That doesn't excuse their original paltry offering, but they have come through now. That might make it difficult for you to continue to be snarky, but I'm sure you'll cope somehow.

The UN is appalled by everything other than themselves and their blind followers and corrupt leaders.

The situation has to be looked at like this:

Sure the U.S. could donate $100 million in the immediate aftermath of the disaster but how quickly will that money be spent and how quickly will the afflicted parties want more? I think it would be better to give a small amount (if $35 million is a small amount) at first, see it spent, and then give a little bit more, see it spent, and then give a little bit more rather than a huge amount at first just to asked for me.

Plus, that $35 million doesn't include the fact that the military is spending millions of dollars on top of that to send an aircraft battle group to the region to serve as field hospitals, command stations, etc. I read somewhere that the aircraft carrier itself can make some amazing amount of freshwater every hour.

Anyway, in the end I'm sure the world will come together and help out. The world will need to be continually reminded of the disaster or else we'll forget, just like the Bam, Iran earthquake this time last year.

If this is how the UN or UN officials react when "stingy Western nations" don't donate enough money I'd like to see their reaction when nothing is donated.

You need to read the updated numbers--France has now made a quite sizable pledge, both on its own and through the EU. That doesn't excuse their original paltry offering, but they have come through now. That might make it difficult for you to continue to be snarky, but I'm sure you'll cope somehow.
That leads the question to be asked what if they work things out (dont know where the bottle neck is right now) and up US donations ?

[QUOTE=
you know for some reason, im trying to care and somehow feel affected by this... but... meh, not finding anything.[/QUOTE]

Kansas will sometimes do that to you.

The UN is appalled by everything other than themselves and their blind followers and corrupt leaders.

The situation has to be looked at like this:

Sure the U.S. could donate $100 million in the immediate aftermath of the disaster but how quickly will that money be spent and how quickly will the afflicted parties want more? I think it would be better to give a small amount (if $35 million is a small amount) at first, see it spent, and then give a little bit more, see it spent, and then give a little bit more rather than a huge amount at first just to asked for me.

Plus, that $35 million doesn't include the fact that the military is spending millions of dollars on top of that to send an aircraft battle group to the region to serve as field hospitals, command stations, etc. I read somewhere that the aircraft carrier itself can make some amazing amount of freshwater every hour.

Anyway, in the end I'm sure the world will come together and help out. The world will need to be continually reminded of the disaster or else we'll forget, just like the Bam, Iran earthquake this time last year.

If this is how the UN or UN officials react when "stingy Western nations" don't donate enough money I'd like to see their reaction when nothing is donated.

While I think we need to spend more money now ... that is a valid point the ammount of effort along with supplies being shiped over and moved into place imidatly (right now geting food and watter there probably more important that giving strait cash)

I think some Americans are taking this way too personally. I heard what the guy said, and nowhere did he single out the US, in fact, he said "we" and "us". And by the sounds of him, he was Dutch (I think), so I don't think he was singling out the US, I think he was simply trying to coerce the wealthier nations into giving more.

As for the old complaint I hear from time to time: what has the world ever done for us (the US)? Well, I know for a fact that Australia sent fire-fighters to help battle the Californian wild-fires. Yeah, sorry we didn't send people to the Florida things, but we don't know a lot about hurricanes.

[QUOTE=
you know for some reason, im trying to care and somehow feel affected by this... but... meh, not finding anything.

Kansas will sometimes do that to you.[/QUOTE]

actually, i bet its a violent mix of nebraska, iowa, misouri and kansas turning into a disruptive mix of cows, corn, meth, and... well, watever the hell missouri is known for...


hey, i would donate money to the cause... if thre was like... a little dude ringing a bell at price chopper or something...

As for the old complaint I hear from time to time: what has the world ever done for us (the US)?.


... if youwant to go throughout history, we prety much owe most of europe...

Actually, we donate more in food than any other country, and private donations from the US are MUCH larger than of any other country.