The U.N. and Iraq

I would like to take a look at the U.N.'s current perspective on Iraq.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon recently said, "Security has improved and Iraq has asserted its sovereignty; but with more sovereignty comes more responsibility. With more responsibility should come less impunity and a greater feeling on the part of the Iraqi people that there are steps towards rule of law, with increased confidence in the state institutions. Only then can real and lasting security be achieved (UN. org)"

These words are both encouraging and challenging. This words encourage the Iraqi people for overcoming their differences and making it this far, through what has hopefully been the hardest part of a time of extreme transition. The Secretary General called the recent election in Iraq a "important turning point.” It was the United Nation's Assistance Mission for Iraq program that provided support for the recent elections in Iraq.

Yet, Ban Ki-Moon also offers a challenge to the Iraqi government to continue to take courageous steps that will inspire the people of Iraq to believe in their government. He encouraged "constructive politcal dialogue. (UN. com)" I am assuming that he is hoping to avoid more instances of uncompromising and selfish struggle between the members of the Iraqi parlement, who struggle with division in religion, ethnicity, and past violence, as well as political viewpoints.

Ban Ki-Moon has also called upon the international community to build upon the positive momentum in Iraq and the success of the recent election. He praised Iran for taking the initiative, setting aside past grievances and opening dialogue with Iraq.