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Conclusion: The World We Want

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What comes after the U.N.?

Contributor: fatmomma

Date: 2003-04-13 17:26:38

I agree codco. The United Nations is still our best and fairest option to handle world affairs. It is vitally important that the UN work at updating the UN make up to refect the changing world. Hopefully this failure of the UN to control this situation will be a catalyst for immediate reform. We must realize this will not happen quickly as it requires agreement from many countries with many opposing interests.
The UN should be better able to enforce their resolutions. I would like to see it be more non political and back room deals banned. Decisions should be made on their merit not because some one offers bribes or economic threats. We don't look upon that favourably in our own governments; it certainly should not be acceptable in world concerns.
The five permanent members should be changeable to reflect a changing world.
One veto should not be allowed to scuttle any resolution. All countries must pay their assessed dues. One suggestion was given that the UN be given the power to tax any military equipment produced; this would bear looking at in my view.

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What comes after the U.N.?

Contributor: codc01

Date: 2003-04-14 06:00:45

"All countries must pay their assessed dues. One suggestion was given that the UN be given the power to tax any military equipment produced; this would bear looking at in my view. "

I think this is a very good idea, as long as its not a way to stop military companies from selling their stuff, knowing that there are about 45 billion of US$ of military equipment exports each year - imposing a 1% tax on military equipment exports and sales within a country - i think it would bring more than 450 million US$ This is about 20% of the UN budget!!! Excellent idea - these numbers excludes also equipment to a country within that country, so i think we could add at least 250 million US$ to this number!

I got my data from this site (1999 year) (Arms Exports Section):
http://www.state.gov/documents/organization/18738.pdf

The UN budget is here (In French though):
http://www.onu.fr/doc/infoge/budg.htm

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