I've often thought we would have been much better off - all of us - if we'd gone in and partitioned Iraq into Kurd/Sunni/Shiaa thirds. I understand the reasons for not doing so, but I still disagree with them. Ralph Peters has taken this concept to its ultimate conclusion: Don't stop in Iraq, but redraw the whole region. Behold:
Now:
Then:
Fascinating. I suggest you look at the maps first, then read Peters' paper.
Thought assignment: Does the UN as it exists stand to promote this solution or to hinder it?
In that it will probably take a series of wars to re-draw the borders pictured here, I'd say the UN probably would be more harm than help.
Posted by: Rob Salkowitz | June 19, 2006 at 05:05 PM
I admit it's pie in the sky, never happen, etc. But it would be a pretty good guide for someone with a time machine. It's really a shame the end of colonialism was handled so poorly with such little insight and foresight. "The sins of the fathers..."
Posted by: pedro | June 19, 2006 at 07:44 PM