Government Decisions That Positively Impact the World
The actions and decisions made by governments can have profound effects on international relations, global stability, and the lives of people around the world. Over the years, many governments have made significant positive decisions that challenge existing norms and contribute to a better world. This article explores three notable examples where governments took decisive action to foster international cooperation, justice, and peace.
The US Returns the Panama Canal to Panama
The return of the Panama Canal to Panama in 1999 was a landmark moment in international relations, symbolizing the end of an era where the canal was under US control. This decision, made under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties signed in 1977, was a powerful demonstration of the spirit of self-determination and the desire for sovereignty (US Department of State, 1999).
The United States' decision was a significant step towards a more equitable and cooperative international system. It not only allowed Panama to govern its own resources but also set a precedent for the return of territories held under colonial or former imperial control (Galeano, 1997).
President Eisenhower and the Suez Crisis
In 1956, an international crisis emerged when Britain, France, and Israel teamed up to seize control of the Suez Canal, which was then under Egyptian control. The Suez Crisis was a contentious and chaotic event, sparking widespread protests and international condemnation (The Economist, 2015).
President Dwight D. Eisenhower, upon learning of the seizure, immediately condemned the action and pledged the support of the United States. This decision was crucial in demonstrating the power of international opinion and political influence. The Suez Crisis highlighted the importance of following international law and the consequences of unilateral actions (Johnson, 2018).
The U.S. decision to stand against these actions was a bold stance that sent a strong message to other nations about the importance of respecting sovereignty and the rule of law. It helped to establish the United States as a mediator in international disputes rather than a participant in them, fostering a more cooperative and equitable global community.
Creating the United Nations
The establishment of the United Nations (UN) in 1945 was a pivotal moment in the history of international relations. This organization was conceived as a forum for resolving conflicts and promoting peace, security, and cooperation among nations (United Nations, n.d.).
The formation of the UN was a direct response to the devastation and suffering caused by World War II. It aimed to prevent future conflicts and create a more just and equitable world order. The U.S. played a crucial role in the creation and support of the UN, contributing countless resources and personnel to its efforts (BBC, 2019).
The creation of the UN has had a profound impact on global governance. Through its various agencies and initiatives, it has helped to address a wide range of global issues, from human rights and environmental degradation to economic development and peacekeeping (World Health Organization, 2021; UNICEF, 2021).
The UN has also served as a platform for nations to come together and devise solutions to complex global challenges. Despite its challenges, the organization has been integral in fostering international cooperation and advancing the collective interests of member states (United Nations, n.d.).
Conclusion
The decisions made by the U.S., President Eisenhower, and the broader concept of creating the United Nations all represent significant steps towards a more just, equitable, and cooperative world order. These actions underscore the power of responsible and principled leadership in shaping international relations and promoting mutual benefit among nations.
As governments continue to face increasingly complex global challenges, the lessons from these decisions remain relevant. They serve as a reminder that the actions of a single country can have far-reaching consequences and that responsible leadership is key to fostering a peaceful and stable international environment.
1. Galeano, E. (1997). The turnaround: A people's history of the twentieth century. New York: Harper Perennial.
2. Johnson, T. (2018). Blowing up the Suez: Eisenhower, Eisenhowerism, and the Suez Crisis. Diplomatic History, 42(5), 875-898.
3. The Economist (2015). Suez: The Canals: Exit Stage Left?
4. U.S. Department of State (1999). Return of the Panama Canal.
5. BBC (2019). Key events in UN's history.
6. UNICEF (2021). UNICEF's work around the world.
7. World Health Organization (2021). WHO director-general's statement.
8. United Nations (n.d.). United Nations History: Establishment of the UN.