US human rights record under fire

Colette Browne (Aug 28) makes some very valid points which would be very reasonable if we were dealing with people (governments) of honesty or integrity.

Let me begin by stating I have not read any article released by Wikileaks.

During a 32-year international career I have had dealings with politicians, diplomats, government representatives. With very few exceptions I would consider the vast majority to be hypocrites, sycophants, and individuals who have no hesitation to manipulate a situation for their personal, financial and, on occasion, sexual benefit.

I have witnessed the interference in the internal affairs of countries, the harassment intimidation of elected representatives, government ministers, business people and bankers.

The United States Government has demonstrated it will go to any lengths to achieve its objectives, regardless of legality.

Reference has already been made to “rendition flights”, whereby people are transported for the purpose of interrogation and torture and Guantanamo Bay, where persons are detained in violation of basic human rights and Geneva Convention.

Many countries collaborate with rendition flights, including Ireland. Why do the nations of the world accept these violations of basic rights by US government?? Perhaps harassment or intimidation by US government representatives?

Let us not overlook one of the main reasons given for the invasion of Iraq — “Weapons of Mass Destruction” — which US weapons inspectors had confirmed did not exist. The invasion went ahead resulting in many thousands of deaths, including many US service persons.

I respectfully suggest it is naive of Ms. Brown to say the thought of Assange ending up in Guamtanamo Bay to be “laughable”.

US has adopted colonial and gunboat diplomacy which has put governments in power and brought governments down with little respect or consideration for the people of those countries and all in the interest of US policies (or business interests).

They demonstrate the only rights are those of the US government.

A sad reflection on the rest of the world.

Michael A Moriarty

Rochestown

Cork