Introduction
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.
UK's Criticism of the US
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 behaviour 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 criticised the US for the gross abuses perpetrated against the 680 alleged terror suspects held in the sweltering wire mesh and wood cages on Cuba.
Demand for Rule of Law
UK foreign minister Baroness Symons has made it clear that the rule of law must apply to these men - no matter what offences 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 behoves the government to vigorously pursue issues about access to lawyers, standards of evidence and any appeals procedures.'
Strong Opposition to 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 civilised 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. 'It is being done outside the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, without the protection of the US constitution. They will have no entitlement to lawyers ... It's irregular, improper and concerning.'
US Justification for Military Tribunals
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. Colonel Will Gunn, the chief military defence lawyer appointed to the military tribunal system, says he will push for proceedings to be as open as possible. He says the US will be judged internationally on the fairness of the trials. The overseer of the tribunals is US deputy defence secretary Paul Wolfowitz, one of the most sabre-rattling of the hawks in Team Bush.
International Concerns and Suicides
The Bush administration is ignoring all protests about its attack on the judicial process. The American Bar Association pointed out US hypocrisy by reminding the administration that America has condemned other countries for using military tribunals in the past. 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. 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 defence officials have said off-the-record that 10% are probably innocent.
US Abuses Beyond Camp X-Ray
Camp X-Ray is the tip of the iceberg of US abuses against modern concepts of justice. At a CIA interrogation centre 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. 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.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Camp X-Ray and America's abuse of human rights has caused a strain in US relations with its Western allies. The demand for fairness and adherence to the rule of law is being raised by countries like the UK, as well as human rights organizations. It remains to be seen how the Bush administration will respond to these concerns and whether changes will be made to ensure the protection of detainees' rights.
Hotels and the Hospitality Industry
As the controversy surrounding Camp X-Ray continues, it is important to also consider the impact on the hospitality industry, particularly hotels. With strained relations between countries and a damaged image of certain nations, the tourism sector can be significantly affected.
International travelers, especially those concerned about human rights abuses, may rethink their travel plans to destinations associated with countries involved in such controversies. Hotels in these areas may witness a decline in bookings and revenue as potential visitors choose alternative destinations.
Furthermore, conferences and events that were scheduled to take place in countries facing criticism for their stance on human rights could face cancellations or relocation to more neutral locations.
Hoteliers must be aware of the broader implications of geopolitical issues on their business. It is essential to maintain open dialogue with governments and international organizations to address concerns and ensure the protection of human rights. By actively advocating for fair treatment and promoting ethical tourism practices, the hospitality industry can play a role in improving global perceptions and preventing potential financial losses.