We’re all busy with classes and social lives, but it’s important to keep in mind that there are things going on outside of the WashU Bubble (really big important things that have the potential to significantly alter our lives) that we should be aware of. Let’s catch up on what’s going on in the world and the US!
- The Aftermath in Japan
What You Should Know: A month later, Japan is still feeling the impacts of a massive earthquake and tsunami. With a death toll of 25,000 and widespread damage, much of the world has come to Japan’s aid. However, major issues must still be overcome. Perhaps the most critical issue involves Fukushima Daiishi, a nuclear reactor that was severely damaged, because it now threatens to contaminate already limited supplies.
What You Can Do:Visit redcross.org or text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10; UNICEF will donate 100% of proceeds to helping children in Japan, text JAPAN to 864233 to donate $10; the Salvation Army is organizing a team to send to Sendai, Japan, text JAPAN or QUAKE to 80888 to donate $10. Even more options can be found at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/03/21/how-to-help-japan-earthquake-relief_n_834484.html
2. Conflict in Africa and the Middle East
What You Should Know:
In Libya: Protests have been occurring since February against the government led by Moammar Gadhafi; the opposition leader is Mustafa Abdul Jalil, and negotiations for a cease-fire are ongoing.
In Egypt: President Hosni Mubarek was forced from office after 30 years. Demonstrations, mostly led by youth, have been the center of attention as the military and remaining government try to stabilize the nation.
In Syria:Human rights activists have grown increasingly alarmed by the allegations against the Bashar al-Assad government. The main fuel for this movement comes from an emergency law that has been in place since 1963. The United States has expressed satisfaction regarding the release of two Americans, but other political prisoners have yet to be released.
In Yemen: Pro- and anti-government demonstrations have gotten increasingly volatile. Protestors want the removal of Saleh from Presidential office, who has promised not to run for president again in the upcoming election.
Why It Matters:Most of the US oil supply comes from this region. As we continue to seek out al Qaeda, northern Africa and the Middle East will play key roles in determining how successful we are in our endeavor.
3. The African Union
What You Should Know: The relatively new organization has taken a more prominent role in world affairs recently due in most part to the increased conflict in the region. Its predecessor, the Organization for African Unity, had a negative reputation, which the AU seeks to improve, along with Africa’s diplomatic standing and economic prospects.
Why It Matters:With much attention centered on Africa, the AU has the opportunity to prove itself. However, some are wary of possible bias, since Gadhafi’s Libya (see Conflict in Africa and the Middle East) contributes about 15% of incoming funds. As more developments occur in Africa, the AU will surely play a key role in determining how smoothly things run.
4. The Budget
What You Should Know:The government nearly shutdown this past week due to an inability to agree on a proposed budget. President Obama, in a reveal on Wednesday, stated that the federal deficit would be reduced by $4 trillion over the next 12 years if his proposed budget were enacted. However, Republicans strongly oppose the repeal of Bush-era tax cuts for families making over $250,000 annually. President Obama disagrees with the GOP plan to halt the government’s role in paying Medicare/Medicaid bills in 2022. One of the biggest debates is over raising the debt ceiling, which would allow the US to borrow more money. If the debt ceiling is ever reached, the US would default which would have major consequences for both the US and global economy. Certain government payments would be stopped or severely limited.
What You Can Do:Read up and be educated! Some of the proposed changes will directly impact on our lives in the future. A list of proposed budget cuts can be found here: http://www.cnn.com/2011/POLITICS/04/13/debt.faq/and more information is readily available online. Furthermore, don’t hesitate to contact your senator or representative to voice your opinion. Remember, they rely on your votes come re-election!
5.Presidential Race 2012
What You Should Know: GOP options include Donald Trump, Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee, Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich, and Tim Pawlenty. In Florida, President Obama loses to Huckabee and Romney, but wins over Palin and Trump. Pawlenty recently announced his candidacy on Tuesday, April 12. Polls for the Republican GOP options show that Romney leads in Florida, followed by Huckabee and Trump (Palin comes in at 6th place).
Why It Matters/What You Can Do: Make sure you’re registered to vote (if you’re a Republican that is!) in the primary. Read up on their stances on issues like the economy, foreign policy, and Medicare. Whatever happens in the next presidential race will impact our lives as we go through college (and even after we graduate!).
Sources:
http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/asiapcf/04/13/japan.disaster.nerves/index.html
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/03/21/how-to-help-japan-earthquake-relief_n_834484.html
http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/africa/04/13/african.union.basics/index.html
http://www.cnn.com/2011/POLITICS/04/13/obama.deficits/index.html?hpt=T1&iref=BN1
http://money.cnn.com/2011/04/12/news/economy/budget_countdown/
http://www.cnn.com/2011/POLITICS/04/13/debt.faq/
http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/africa/04/02/middle.east.africa.unrest/index.html
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/04/11/obama-palin-get-bad-news-in-florida-poll/
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/04/12/pawlenty-%E2%80%98i%E2%80%99m-running-for-president%E2%80%99/?i?m-running-for-president?/