Somali Pirates...are they really to blame (Full Version)

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Latonya -> Somali Pirates...are they really to blame (6/3/2009 1:34:20 PM)

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8001183.stm

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8072188.stm

It's really a shame. We see this same scenario time and time again. When the destitute have nothing, many times they turn to illegal activity for quick means to what may seem like a never ending and even life threatening problem. It happens in the ghettos across the US and all over.

In this case, there is no stable government. In fact there are two legitimate ruling governments in the North, but neither is internationally recognized. They are pleading and asking for help to not only fight piracy, but to implement alternatives for their citizens such as education, housing, hospitals. Many are starving and live in shacks. 

In South Samalia, where the recognized government is supposed to be, there has been nothing but civil war between the Islamic insurgents and the internationally recognized govt which is very week.

So, I am just wondering, who (not that it is any one person) is to be blamed for this. These teen pirates arent running this operation alone. Some have even gone as far as accusing other nations such as The United Emirates and private security companies for aiding them.

What are your opinions?



Latonya -> RE: Somali Pirates...are they really to blame (6/3/2009 5:01:58 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: Latonya

Some have even gone as far as accusing other nations such as The United Emirates and private security companies for aiding them.

What are your opinions?


Sorry I have to correct that....The United Arab Emirates



fiery -> RE: Somali Pirates...are they really to blame (6/3/2009 5:52:09 PM)

I'm sure for every one of the teens that did turn to piracy, there's another teen that didn't. It's the lure of easy pickings that attracts them. I have no sympathy for anyone, whether they're from this country or any other, who chooses to pick up a gun and threaten innocent people who are just going about their lives that have absolutely nothing to do with their attacker's situation. Whoever's to blame, it sure isn't the poor people looking down the barrel of a gun. 



Latonya -> RE: Somali Pirates...are they really to blame (6/3/2009 8:21:55 PM)

Good point. However, I honestly can't say that I entirely blame them. I don't think that anyone knows what they would and wouldnt do unless faced with the situation. If someone asked me if I would rob to feed my family if I have exhausted all means...humm I think I'd plead the 5th on that one.

It is not only the person and the act, but I also believe that circumstances play a large role. That country has been in dire need of aid since the government fell apart in 1991, but no one has taken notice. Well, that is until piracy became an issue. It seems that in order for help to come to those in need in Africa there has to be some underlying special interest.

IDK...those are just my two cents. I'm sure that there are many who disagree and I understand.



ChristineB -> RE: Somali Pirates...are they really to blame (6/3/2009 9:01:18 PM)

Hmm, I felt the same way as Kay...until I read an article that at least slightly, changed my perspective.  Let me see if I can find it....



fiery -> RE: Somali Pirates...are they really to blame (6/4/2009 9:33:21 PM)

Fair point, Latonya. And I'm probably never going to see it that way because I have a cousin that's military in a senior role and right now in the thick of that. It's senseless that he or anyone else should be in danger from these people. It's just too emotive a subject for me. 



Latonya -> RE: Somali Pirates...are they really to blame (6/5/2009 5:13:54 PM)

I know that our personal lives are always an influence on our opinions. We wouldn't be humans otherwise. I'm just glad that we can all come together and hear different views. I really enjoy listening to how other ppl view situations. It makes me see that many times there arent simple answers or even any answers at all. However, for the most part everyone makes a good point.

Thanks for being honest, I love it!



fiery -> RE: Somali Pirates...are they really to blame (6/6/2009 2:04:24 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: Latonya

I know that our personal lives are always an influence on our opinions. We wouldn't be humans otherwise. I'm just glad that we can all come together and hear different views. I really enjoy listening to how other ppl view situations. It makes me see that many times there arent simple answers or even any answers at all. However, for the most part everyone makes a good point.

Thanks for being honest, I love it!


It's a character flaw in me, Latonya. You can count on getting an honest opinion from me for sure. [:D]



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