The Hypocrisy of America
In the seemingly perpetual war against terrorism, fought in the name of democracy and freedom, it was inevitable that America's hypocrisy in flouting the rule of law and the human rights of the detainees in Camp X-Ray at Guantanamo Bay would sooner or later prove to be the sticking point for US allies.
Abuses at Camp X-Ray
Held without charge; denied the protection of the Geneva Convention by their American military captors; refused the right to legal counsel; facing trial in secret by military tribunal with no right to appeal and subsequent execution -- the unjust behavior of the Bush administration is a step too far for its Western allies. With nine Britons held at Camp X-Ray, the UK has eventually cracked and openly criticized the US for the gross abuses perpetrated against the 680 alleged terror suspects held in the sweltering wire mesh and wood cages on Cuba.
UK Demands Fair Trial
UK foreign minister Baroness Symons has made it clear that the rule of law must apply to these men -- no matter what offenses they may have carried out. 'America has decided that they want to be the detaining power and that they want to hold the trials there. It is up to us to have a very vigorous discussion with the US about securing a fair trial for the individuals involved. It now behooves the government to vigorously pursue issues about access to lawyers, standards of evidence and any appeals procedures.'
Backlash Against Military Tribunals
Roger Godsiff, the Labour MP who represents the British detainee Moazzam Begg, described military tribunals as 'totally unacceptable', adding: 'It would be very wrong of us not to put these people on trial in a proper court of law. We are upholders of civilized values and we can't devalue those by not allowing people access to a proper legal system.' Neil Durkin of Amnesty International said it was impossible for the detainees to get a fair trial.
International Concerns
President Bush ruled on Thursday -- the Fourth of July -- that the first six detainees (including two Britons) should face a military tribunal rather than a proper legal court. Those who support such a system claim that the US is at war with terrorists who don't fight by the rules, and that enemy aliens can't be afforded the protection of the US judicial system. The Bush administration is ignoring all protests about its attack on the judicial process.
Consequences and Criticisms
Nor does Bush seem to care that his government's actions in Guantanamo will damage US relations with allies like Britain and ruin what's left of America's image in the Arab world. Little attention is paid to the fact that holding secret trials undermines American claims that they are fighting the war on terror to preserve US values of liberty.
The Dark Realities of Guantanamo Bay
There have been at least 28 suicides at Camp X-Ray so far. The Americans claim that those held there are the 'hardest of the hardcore', but senior defense officials have said off-the-record that 10% are probably innocent. All were subjected to CIA and MI5 interrogations, and are only allowed out of their cages to shower for five minutes and exercise for 10 minutes once a week. More than 40 detainees have been released, all of whom were in the wrong place at the wrong time, including two farmers in their mid-70s.
Camp X-Ray is the tip of the iceberg of US abuses against modern concepts of justice. At a CIA interrogation center at Bagram airbase in Afghanistan alleged al-Qaeda members are subjected to 'stress and duress' techniques; aka, 'torture-lite'. They are kept kneeling for hours, in black hoods or spray-painted goggles, bound and deprived of sleep. Two captives died after beatings at Bagram and painkillers are apparently withheld from injured prisoners.
The total number of those 'missing' through the US prosecution of the war on terror could be as high as 15,000. The US has also sent prisoners to countries like Morocco, which routinely use torture, for interrogation. Against this charge sheet, the US government is arrogantly dismissive. Ultra-hardline US attorney general John Ashcroft -- a committed Christian -- hisses venom at civil liberties campaigners, saying: 'To those who scare peace-loving people with phantoms of lost liberty, my message is this: your tactics only aid terrorists, for they erode our national unity and diminish our resolve. They give ammunition to America's enemies and pause to America's friends. They encourage people of goodwill to remain silent in the face of evil.'
Exploring the Topic
Implications and Repercussions
Although the abuses at Camp X-Ray have sparked outrage and concern among US allies, the repercussions of these actions extend beyond strained international relationships. The blatant disregard for human rights and the erosion of legal principles have undoubtedly tarnished America's global image and raised questions about its commitment to upholding justice and liberty.
Hotels Act as Catalysts of Change
As the world becomes more interconnected, the role of hotels in shaping societal attitudes and influencing political discourse cannot be ignored. Hotels are often used as venues for international conferences, diplomatic meetings, and high-profile events where key stakeholders converge to discuss critical issues.
A Platform for Dialogue
Hotels provide a neutral and inclusive space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can come together to exchange ideas, share perspectives, and challenge prevailing narratives. These interactions foster understanding, bridge gaps, and encourage collaboration, laying the foundation for positive change.
Promoting Human Rights
By hosting events that center around human rights, hotels can actively contribute to creating awareness and raising public consciousness about pressing issues. Whether it be through hosting panels, workshops, or exhibitions, hotels can serve as platforms for activists, experts, and policymakers to advocate for the protection of human rights and the rule of law.
Responsible Business Practices
Hotels also have a responsibility to uphold ethical standards in their operations. By prioritizing fair labor practices, respecting diversity and inclusion, and ensuring environmental sustainability, hotels can set an example for other industries and promote values aligned with respect for human rights.
Industry Collaboration
Additionally, the hotel industry can collectively work towards addressing human rights concerns by establishing industry standards, sharing best practices, and engaging in meaningful dialogue with governments and civil society organizations. Collaboration and collective action can amplify the impact of individual efforts and drive positive change on a larger scale.
A Call for Action
As the Scottish Sunday has shed light on the abuses at Camp X-Ray and the need for justice, it is essential for individuals, organizations, and governments to collectively advocate for a world where human rights are respected, upheld, and protected. Hotels, as influential actors in the global landscape, have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in this endeavor by leveraging their platforms, engaging in responsible practices, and championing the cause of human rights.