Like David Wood I am puzzled by the almost total absence of
discussion of Kossovo on the list. I wonder is this to do with a
possible ambivalence for many on the left. There is, I assume, a
feeling that Kossovan Albanians should be protected but an uneasy
feeling about that protection coming from NATO and coming in a form
very reminiscent of the bombing of Iraq (Incidentally, I gather that
the US is still bombing Iraq, even as the attacks on Yugoslavia
continue - not much mention of this in the media).
The confusion on the left is reflected in the split between Labour
left stalwarts Tony Benn (opposed) and Ken Livingstone (in favour).
Does the latters' attempt to become Mayor of London have anything to
do with this, I wonder! Left-leaning columnists in the British press
are also divided on the issue. Is it more difficult for those on the
left in Britain to condemn a Labour government even when it behaves
in a very similar manner to the previous administration?
Anyway, as far as Kossovo goes, It seems there is the usual attempt
by those in power to malign those who dare suggest they may be wrong.
To oppose the bombing of Yugoslavia is not the same as supporting
Milosevic; nor is it to suggest a lack of concern with the plight of
Kossovan Albanians.
Bombing appears to have worsened the plight of
those in Kossovo (both Albanian and Serb) while increasing support
for Milosevic. Indeed Nato seems to have helped Milosevic in
solving the Kossovan problem by hurrying up the displacement of
Albanians (just so long as they are not 'displaced' to the UK!)
All of this makes it considerably more difficult to achieve a
meaningful negotiated settlement. The pre-war US-inspired
'agreement' was one that neither side wanted to sign. The
Kossovans appear to have been almost forced to sign it by the US.
Of course this does not mean there are no 'winners'. The most obvious
ones are arms manufacturers. I guess Nato will also be a 'winner'.
When the war ends (whenever that will be) Nato (an organisation
desperately in need of a rationale in the post Cold War world) can
claim that its actions forced Milosevic to negotiate.
Dave
Dr. David Storey
Geography Department &
Centre for Rural Research
University College Worcester
Henwick Grove
Worcester WR2 6AJ
England
Tel: 01905 855189
Fax: 01905 855132
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