A Trump Doctrine of Hypocrisy

By Tharanga YakupitiyageUNITED NATIONS, Sep 20 2017 (IPS)In his first address on the global stage of the General Assembly, United States’ President Donald Trump touted an “America First” approach at the very institution that is meant to inspire collaboration between nations. Donald J. Trump. Credit: UN Photo/Cia PakDuring his 45-minute speech, President Trump praised national sovereignty, referencing the concept a whopping 21 times.“Our government’s first duty is to its people, to our citizens — to serve their needs, to ensure their safety, to preserve their rights, and to defend their values,” he told world leaders.“As President of the United States, I will always put America first, just like you, as the leaders of your countries will always, and should always, put your countries first.”But in a global world that relies on each other on issues such as economic growth and environmental protection, can a “me first” approach work?Peace Action’s Senior Director of Policy and Political Affairs Paul Kawika Martin says no.“To say one country first over the other certainly is not going to deal with these issues,” he told IPS.Though the President highlighted the need to work together to confront those who threaten the world with “chaos, turmoil, and terror,” his actions seem to imply otherwise.Starting with withdrawing from the landmark Paris Climate Agreement to tackle global emissions to threatening funding cuts to not only the UN but also to...
Source: IPS Inter Press Service - Health - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Authors: Tags: Aid Climate Change Conferences Crime & Justice Democracy Energy Environment Gender Global Globalisation Headlines Health Human Rights TerraViva United Nations Source Type: news