Two Spins on the US “War on Terror” Essay Example for Free

Two Spins on the US â€Å"War on Terror† Essay The September 11 tragedy has engendered the US â€Å"war on terrorism† that was launched to restore peace and world order. This, of course, echoes the side of the Bush administration. Other groups have argued that the war on terror failed to remedy terrorism since it has proven to be an act of terror itself. Instead of bringing peace, numerous individuals have analyzed the war on terror as an attempt of the US to re-establish itself as Empire. The long competing discourses for and against the US attack of Iraq have often left the common citizen confused and apathetic regarding the issue. This paper argues in the concluding part that it is not enough to be trapped in the various â€Å"spins† relating to the war on terror. More than ever, the times necessitate for individuals to speak up and make a political stand. Introduction After the September 11 tragedy, the US has taken on a role to defend its nation – even the world – from what it perceives as â€Å"terrorists. † This maneuver is grounded on various political and economic policies that have been championed and criticized by different peoples all over. The eventual result of this global campaign to â€Å"curb the spread of terrorism† is the US invasion of Iraq. Four years after the US, United Kingdom and the coalition made their move to crush the â€Å"enemy,† numerous groups and individuals contend that the situation has only gone worse. The US State department, on the other hand, lauds the measures being taken up to now, arguing that peace can only be achieved through a sustained and protracted â€Å"war on terrorism. † Fortunately or unfortunately (depending on which side one is from), the US war on terror is still very much at work today, making it a pressing issue gripping our nation and the world. This paper re-constructs the two â€Å"spins† surrounding the issue of the US war on terror by assuming the side of the US government and the opposition. The question of the hour would thus be: Did the US war on terror prove beneficial or detrimental? By â€Å"spin,† I am borrowing Bill Maher’s elementary definition of the term: â€Å"a lie communicated through the veneer of vague truth† (Press, 2002, xi). According to Bill Press, spin has a vital role in the way political campaigns are arranged today (Press, 2002, xiii). Taken from a ball sport which is cricket, the meaning of spin has then on evolved to connote highly manipulative and deceptive techniques that are selective in vision and interpretation of facts, values and statements. One of the most popular strategies used for spin is non-denial denial. It is much related to the way of talking in which the statements are constructed to assume unproven truths. Ambiguity and skirting, rejecting validity of hypothetical values, and appealing to internal policies – these constitute the strategy and method of spinning. Those who are skilled in spinning have developed a keen sense of timing that allows them to manipulate the people especially during tragic times like the September 11 tragedy. For instance, when British political advisor and press officer Jo Moore sent an email to her department stating that â€Å"It’s now a very good day to get out everything we want to bury,† the statement was manipulated to mean that Moore was insulting those who died and got buried during the September 11 tragedy (Watt, 2001). The trouble, apparently caused by spin, forced Jo Moore to resign. An individual skilled at spinning truths are called â€Å"spin doctors. † Today, the term spin doctor interestingly connotes nearly all politicians and bureaucrats. People from the government have often been vilified for their supposed attempts to conceal the truth from the people. From comedy shows to news editorial, government officials have now become popular figures to be poked at. Spin’s definition as false discourses implies that it is propagated in order to make the people believe a particular political agenda. However, this operative definition doesn’t suggest that the two competing sides regarding the US war on terror are both false. On the contrary, moments of truth are revealed by the very act of critically examining whatever is being handed to us whether by those protecting the status quo or those who oppose it. Therefore, at the offset, the this paper’s disclaimer is that it is impossible to assume the two sides of the issue as if an individual is ideology-free and bias-free. For the purposes of this exercise, however, this paper will attempt to present the arguments by positioning the author in the shoes of each side’s defenders. This paper will first do a spin of the pro- War side followed by a negative spin launched by the anti-war side. In the concluding part, the author will make his own stand and forward his own recommendations. War as path to world peace Ever since the US has been attacked by terrorists, it has become a necessity to protect the country from possible future attacks. The collapse of Word Trade Center, the mark of economic prosperity in the world, left a deep wound that gave President Bush no other choice but to fight back. According to President Bush, the death of thousands of Americans, generated by Islamic fundamentalists, must be avenged (â€Å"Bush defends†, 2005). The US war on terror is thus the answer for the restoration of peace. One of the measures undertaken by the resilient US government was the passage of Patriot Act. Now, any suspected terrorist may be searched and arrested without warrant (USA Patriot Act, 2001). The opposition would say that this law tramps down the right of the people. Apparently, the opposition does not see the bigger picture. It is better to sacrifice a bit of our liberties in order for our country to be protecting itself. Those opposing the efforts made by the Bush administration prove guilty of not wanting the US to recover from the devastating September 11 attacks. Thus, it is important, more than ever, that the measures the Bush administration has initiated be reasserted for the sake of national unity and progress. Securing US borders One painful lesson Americans have learned from the September 11 attacks is that the country’s borders should now be strongly secured from terrorists and other possible threats. The boundaries are regularly crossed by 330 million non-American citizens. It does not come as a surprise then that terrorists were able to gain easy access to the US (US Patriot Act, 2001). Not only terrorists but also criminals, illegal immigrants, drug addicts, and smugglers enter the US and threaten US security. The changing and quickly developing atmosphere of terror allows new chances for another attack. The US Patriot Act (2001) therefore asserts that border control must be strengthened. President George Bush points out two main principles of border control: 1) Americas state boundaries must contribute to the lawful trade and travel in the most efficient way 2) Border control must provide reliable protection against all possible threatening factors like terrorism, drug traffic, epidemics, arms traffic and others (Guild, 2003). In the 2003 Budget, $11 billion was allotted for boundaries security and $380 million for the Immigration and Naturalization Service. The plan is to build a modern entry-exit visa system that would surely secure the US from terrorists and other threats. This additional financing allows the border agencies to bring into effect reliable measures that would protect the US from foreign menaces, while at the same time letting legitimate goods and travelers cross the boundaries easily (Guild, 2003). An amount of $619 million was also given to the inspection budget of the Customs Service. This additional financing allows the Customs Service to fulfill its role to thwart dangerous goods like weapons of mass destruction. Particularly, the extra funding allows the Customs Service to hire about 800 new inspectors and make use of the most advanced technologies that will protect the US from harmful foreign goods (Guild, 2003). The 2003 Budget also increased by $1. 2 billion the financing of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). The amount of money which totals to $5. 3 billion includes appropriate funding for constructing the entry-exit visa system. (Patel, 2003) The increase of funding is bound to help the INS have more patrol agents and inspectors in the northern boundary and to install integrated information systems providing efficient and precise data-sharing among the security agents. The entry-exit tracking system will help improve the flow of legitimate human influx while preventing dangerous or illegal individuals from getting across the state boundaries (Patel, 2003). The increased budget for border security therefore showcases the sincere efforts of President Bush to protect the American people. Although the budget is a bit expensive, it cannot be denied that the reward of security and safety remains inestimable.

Obstacles To Achieving Sustainable Development

Obstacles To Achieving Sustainable Development There is no definite interpretation of sustainable development. Many scholars agree that the term sustainability is a very general concept and has too many interpretations (Saadatan et al. 2010) the meaning of sustainable development often appears unclear and accordingly underdetermined ambiguous and controversial (Parris and Kates 2003; Robinson 2004; Williams and Millington 2004; Fergus and Rowney 2005, Kates et al, 2005; ) ac cited in (Wuelser et al., 2012) . The term sustainability however originally crops from the ecological field. It was used to refer to an ecosystems potential for subsisting over time with almost no alteration. Later, the term development was introduced. This changed the view from just an environmental one but from that of a society and capital economy (Reboratti, 1999 pp 207-209) as cited by(Jabareen, 2008). Sustainable development on the global scene however, was introduced during the Cocoyoc Declaration on environment and development (Redclift, 1987, p.32) . This new concept was further expounded by the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED) in 1987. The Commission produced an extensive report, Our Common Future that is commonly referred to as the Brundtland Report after the chair of the committee. The Brundtland reports definition of Sustainable development is the one that seems to be commonly referred to in the international arena. It defined sustainable development (SD) as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It further breaks down SD into two key concepts; concept of needs, in particular needs of the poor and secondly the concept of limitations that focuses on the technology and social factors and their ability to ensure environmental use to meet present and future needs (WCED, p.43). The report also defines development as a progressive transformation of economy and society (WCED p.43). With regard to the Brundtland reports definition and terminologies, three key aspects come into play, the economy, society and the environment. These three components of sustainable development are interlinked and a balance in the three factions is necessary in order to attain sustainable development. This harmony can only be achieved through equity. Equity as defined by the Oxford dictionary as the quality of being fair or impartial. In relation to the definition of sustainable development fair distribution is necessary to ensure the present and future generation needs are met. Our Common Future focused on the critical issues of equity and environment and raised the important ethical considerations regarding human environment relationships (Langhelle, 1999)****. Under the societal bracket, equity across the generations can be divided into two; intergenerational equity and intragenerational equity. The former acknowledges the future generations. It expects equal distribution of resources between present and future generations. It is the fairness of allocation of resources between current and future generations (Jabareen, 2008). Intragenerational equity on the other hand, refers to the distribution of resources between competing factions of the present day. This type of equity mainly addresses the poor in present society. Sustainable development in this umbrella seeks to ensure poverty is abolished and fairness of distribution of the worlds resources to every individual is met. According to the Brundtland report, the prerequisite for addressing intragenerational equity is a fair distribution of economic and social power. It argues that this can be achieved by participation in decision making and democratic processes for enabling participation and suitable governance needs to be established (WCED, 1987 p.43). However, whilst observing these two types of generational equity, it is clear that the intergenerational equity heavily relies on intragenerational equity. If there is no balance in the present age, exploitations are bound to happen, hence the future generations will be left with little or no capital stock. Therefore, it is essential that the present needs are met by sustainable development practices in order to ensure that the future generations needs are also met. Society cannot live without natural capital. The two factions are interconnected and a balance between the two is essential for attainment of sustainable development. Environmental integrity ensures that the natural stock is well managed so as to meet the needs of future generations. Environmental integrity is the management of natural capital stock so as to ensure future generation access to the same ecosystems. Jabareen (2008) further expounds that the ethical concepts under this umbrella fall into two extreme groups; the domination of nature and the intrinsic rights of nature. The former is represented by the doctrines of light ecology and the latter is governed by doctrines of deep ecology. However, regardless of which doctrine, one key issue is addressed, the sustainability of the natural resources. Natural resource should remain constant over time. Pearce and Turner (1994, p.44) explain that this stock should not decrease in order to avoid endangering the opportunities of the f uture generations ability to generate wealth and well being. This concept commonly known as strong sustainability, seems utopic and frankly highly impossible. The environmental damage has already occurred sustainable development as a strategy is to ensure that what is left and that which is untapped stays intact for future generations to come. The correlation of the three pillars of sustainable development- economic growth, society and the environment seeks to achieve balance under this paradigm. Economic growth under this new discourse is expected to address both environmental and social integrity. Before the concept of sustainable development was formulated, economic growth was perhaps the only driving force of international world. Economic growth in the 20th century has been nothing but destructive. Nevertheless, under the new discourse, it is expected under its objectives not only to achieve economic growth, but also alleviate societal injustices and environmental justice to be adhered to. Poverty alleviation is mandatory under the new framework of economic achievements. As Dodds (2000, pp28-29), argues that poverty and the environmental degradation are interlocking global crisis and that we do not face the choice between environment and development but rather challenge to find ways to integrate the two aspects. Sustainable development as with any new strategy or concept is not short of criticism. Some critics and analysts assert that it is difficult to classify SD as a globalizing force because it falls between fragmentation and integration (Sneddon et. al.2006). Redclift a famous critic of this new discourse argues that it remains unlikely that the developed countries (even developing countries) will put into action these measures. Proponents on the other hand argue, that albeit the process is occurring at a slothful pace, it has been applied extensively around the world and there are some success stories currently taking place both in the Northern and Southern nations. (Sneddon et. al.2006). argues that burgeoning levels of consumption, enhanced levels of ecological degradation, a growing public mistrust of science and vast inequalities in economic opportunities is to blame. Nevertheless, it is clear that sustainable development has yet to be achieved and in actual retrospect, unsustainab le development is winning currently. Perhaps the reason why the process has been ineffective is due to constant change experienced at environmental, social and economic levels in the modern world. However, the process of sustainable development is still important and support in the international community is evident. However, the process is faced by threats from its greatest enemy, a function of neoliberalism, globalization. One of the major obstacles to achieving sustainable development is globalization. Globalization is perhaps the grandest form of obstacle towards SD. This can be owed to the fact that it affects the three pillars of sustainable development; economic growth, social equity and environmental integrity. The precise definition of globalization is not known. Globalization as a term remains elusive (Castells, 1996: Mclauhan, 1962, Van Dijik, 1991; Gigoux and Samson, 2009) .Paehlke (n.d) describes it as simultaneous expansion of international investment and trade, the integration of social, cultural and economic activities and the acceleration of the international community, travel and personal interaction. However, Robinson (2007:125) cited in (Gigoux and Samson ,2009) summarizes the characteristics of globalization as ; a globalized economy involving new systems of production, finance and consumption and world economic integration. New transnational or global cultural patterns, practices an d flows, and the idea of global cultures ,global political process, the rise of new transnational institutions and concomitantly, the spread of global governance and the authority structures of diverse sorts ,unprecedented multidirectional movements of peoples around the world involving new patterns of transnational migration identities and communities and finally new social hierarchies forms of inequalities and relations of domination around the world. From these characteristics globalization is depicted as an international layout that involves integration of systems. Globalization seems unstoppable and is now commonly referred commonly as the new world order. This new paradigm as previously mentioned affects economic social and environmental factors of sustainable development. Proponents of the globalization paradigm see it as a new discourse to achieving social, economic and environmental equity. Dasgupta (2007) asserts that globalization emphasizes the potential of capital accumulation and technological improvements to compensate for environmental degradation. The Brundtland report actually encouraged the internationalization of the three pillars of development. This is probably why globalization has still been accepted as a possible strategy to achieving sustainable development. Contradicting this theory is the current situation occurring globally, the spread of globalization has been unstoppable. It has left in its wake more demerits than merits that have adversely affected sustainable development. Globalization can be said to be biased towards achieving economic growth. The Brundtland report stressed the need for equity in order to achieve sustainable development. The three pillars of sustainable development are highly interlinked. If one is to be encouraged more than the other, imbalance in the system is likely to occur. As Robinson described one of the characteristics of globalization as a new hierarchal form of inequality, it is in this light that we attribute the challenges of sustainable development under the globalization bracket. Globalization has its main objective as economic growth. In an ideal sustainable world, achievement of economic growth should go hand in hand with societal equity and environmental integrity. However, the situation currently being experienced around the globe is one where economic growth has taken precedence. The result is a society that is experiencing the worst forms of inequality. Globalization has opened the markets making it a free global market. Liberation of trade has led to an increase in employment opportunities in most industrialized countries. This has led to a wave of labour migration to occur. Most of these migrant workers come from developing countries. Throughout history, migration has been a courageous expression of the individuals will to overcome adversity and to live a better life (Zollinger, 2007). However, globalization has led to the highest number of labour migrants in history. According to the International Labour Office (ILO,2007) an estimated 191 million wor kers were migrants. In addition, 81 million together with their families accounted for 90% of the international migrants. Globalization has led to a decrease in the regulation of the labour market, growth in the informal sector and a new form of exploitation (Financial Express 2006). This has led to the re introduction of the term, precarious work to be used especially in the neoliberal regime (Munck, 2010). Discrimination against women has also been observed during the process. Female labourers are exploited in terms of work, pay hours and contracts. The United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) states that demand for female migrants results from a number of global forces in which gender roles and sex discrimination are intertwined with globalization (Financial Express,2006). The vast number of labour migrations taking place led to the development of international legal frameworks such asà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.. that cater to the . surprisingly, labour movement are also supportin g the rights of migrant workers. Munck (2010) attributes this to the fact that this has provided the trade unions with a new platform for revitalization after the long neoliberal onslaught. Another negative impact due to globalization that stands out greatly is inequality in income. This has occurred in two forms; international inequality and intranational inequality. The former refers to the difference income levels of citizens of different states. The latter refers to the disparities between individuals of the same state. International income inequality is mainly due to lower economic growth and faster population growth in developing countries than OECD countries (Wade, 2001) as cited in (Borghesi and Vercelli, 2006). Data released by the World bank in 2007 showed that people living on less than a dollar decreased from 1.25billion to 1 billion (World Bank ,2007). However in regions such as the sub-Saharan Africa, the poor increased by 60 million (Zollinger, 2007). The UNDP (2007) stresses this aspect further by stating, the Champaign effect if the world was one country, 201% of the world population would have more than three quarters of worldwide income, while the poo rest 40% would have 5%. An American citizen in 1990 was thirty eight times richer than an inhabitant in Tanzania. This has increased by sixty one times today. (UNDP, 2006). The inequalities between countries according to Lindhert and Williamson (2001) in Borghesi and Vercelli (2006) argue that, those countries that participated in the globalization discourse experienced growth and at the same time opened up their borders to inequality through liberation of markets and following autarkic policies. They further assert that countries excluded or isolated from this process lag behind while those who participate in it join the what they refer to as convergence club. Their thoughts perhaps reflect what Brundtland Commission had predicted asymmetry in international economic relations compounds imbalance as developing nations are generally influenced -by I but unable to influence international conditions (WCED,1987, p.67). Intranational inequality has also increased over the years especial ly in developed countries such as Great Britain and the USA. The number of working poor is increasing at an alarming rate in the industrialized countries. The working class seems to be short changed by the globalization paradigm. Take the case of an American manager, his/her income has increased in the past 20 years from being fourty times higher as the average income to one hundred and ten times. This can be attributed to the different access to globalization between these two factions. Therefore, it can be said that globalization albeit promoting one pillar of sustainable development, i.e. economic growth has led to serious disparities in the social world with high levels of inequality and increase in poverty especially in the developing countries. Sustainable development requires the prudent use of natural resources in order to ensure that future generations enjoy the same access to nature as the present generation. The intrinsic relation between the environment and economic growth together with social factors has led to disastrous changes in the environment. of the three pillars of sustainable development, this is perhaps the worst hit in present day. The consequences of environmental degradation has led to social and political discourse that is least to say wanting. A major function on of globalization is industrialization. The internalization of industrialization to the greatest threat on earth currently, global warming. Global is as a result of extensive industrialization. Stiglitz (2007) asserts that there is no issue as global as global warming; everyone shares the same atmosphere. Emissions from industrialized countries such as the USA and China cross boarders and eventually affect the poorest of the countries in the wo rld. Stiglitz expresses his worry using the case of Bangladesh and the Maldives. Bangladesh is a rice growing country. Due to its location, it is vulnerable to sea levels. Global warming will eventually affect sea levels. The country is likely to be submerged. Stiglitz predicts this to be one third of the country. Being a rice growing nation, their source of livelihoods will simply be destroyed and thus and to the total challenge of global poverty. Maldives on the other hand according to predictions its predicament due to global warming is going to occur very soon. This tropical paradise might be completely submerged in the next fifty years. Natural resources are being exploited at an alarming rate during this period of intense globalization. The destruction of natural resources can only lead to dire consequences on the environment and society as a whole. Natural resources are essential for the lifeline of the planet. Forests are especially important. They are a natural sink for carbon. During this period of increased green house gas emissions, their carbon sequestration is needed to absorb the excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. However, the demand for land for development has seen industrialized nations transfer their projects to tropical rain forests which are mostly located in developing countries. Take the example of the Amazonian forest. This is the largest rain forest in the world. However, its distraction is occurring at an alarming rate to give way for development of dams, settlers and loggers. Research stipulates that the Amazonian forests vanishing at a rate of 200,000 square miles a year. On the other si de of the globe, in Africa, Cameroons tropical forest is at risk of multi cooperation exploitation. An example is the Herackles Farm company. It has to date destroyed 72 000 hectares of land. This is for the palm oil project they intend to set up in the region. Palm oil is used to produce biodiesel, a cleaner source of energy to fossil fuel. The destruction of this forest has not only destroyed the landscape of the forest but has also destroyed the migratory paths of the wildlife animals in the tropical forest. Destruction of forests not only affects carbon sequestration, it also affects climatic conditions. Take the case of Kenya, the past ten years has seen the country destroy its major water tower, the Mau forest. This forest has been destroyed mostly to give way to the colonial pressure of land and the government decided to settle people in this forest. What followed is extensive logging in the forest. Microclimatic conditions started occurring following this. The country experi enced the worst drought spell in the year 2009. Agriculture was highly affected and hunger followed. The hydroelectric industry and the tea industry were also affected. This being key revenue sources for the nation (Morgan, 2009). Still on the case of forest depletion, biodiversity loss must be addressed. Biodiversity is one of them major concerns the Brundtland commission had in Our Common Future. Brail boasts around 55 000 species of flora amounting to some 22% of the worlds total. The Convention on Biodiversity (CBD, 2010) reported that forests account for more than two thirds on net primary production on land and the conversion of solar energy into plant matter. Therefore, a global check to ensure sustainable use of natural resources should be addressed and fast. The destruction of natural resources has also led to societal pressures. There is an intrinsic connection between man and nature. This intrinsic connection with nature is slowly being destroyed by globalization. The indigenous peoples for example have been shortchanged by globalization. The indigenous peoples of the world live in the most biodiverse areas of the world. This is probably the reason why they have become prime targets of global corporations who have already depleted their natural resources. GAoing back to the Amazon, one will find the Awa tribe. This tribe are hunters and gathers and rely on the rainforest for their source of livelihood. Encroachment of the forest by loggers and new settlers threat their lifestyle. Survival International (2012,a) in one of their films; The Worlds Most Threatened Tribe, shows the plight of these people. One tribesman is captures asking why are they doing this to us? If they destroy the forest they destroy us. Extractive industries have al so led to loss of biodiversity and added to the plight of the indigenous peoples. According to the UNHCR (2011), extractive industries generated effects that often infringe upon indigenous peoples rights. The Palawan of the Phillipinnes for example are a fighting the nickel mining industry. Mining causes the worst environmental and societal footprints. Mining causes; destruction of landscapes, destruction of agricultural land, sedimentation and erosion soil and water contamination. In a film by the Survival International (2012,b), Palawan Voices from the Last Frontier depicts clearly the plight of these people. A mother is seen worrying about the future generations and how they will manage to experience the forest due to the mining industry. Contamination of their waters has led to diseases that these people who are rarely in contact with others have contracted. With no access to healthcare, they are losing lives. However. Indigenous peoples have managed to fight the tentacles of gl obalization. Armed with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of the Indigenous Peoples, they are fighting this global order. Economic growth leads to an increase in Industrial activities. This leads to an increase in per capita. This eventually leads to an increase in population that has proved to be a crucial factor in environmental degradation. (Borghesi and Vercelli, 2006). The Brundtland report expressed its concerns on the rate of population growth especially in Africa. For example population pressure in Kenya has led to the destruction of conservation of wildlife. Land use favouring agricultural and rural development has led to reduction of wildlife conservation areas leading to extinction of some species. (Okech, n.d).There is a conflict between the wildlife and humans who have encroached their conservancies and reserves. Human encroachment was estimated to be 72% and loss of conservation due to degradation of wildlife migration corridors was said to be 70% (Okech, n.d). The killings of wildlife by the population due to destruction of agricultural crops from animals such as the elephants has led to a conflict in government. The Government is trapped on whether to support the people or support wildlife interests. More often than not it has resulted in favouring the latter, reason? Tourism in Kenya is one of the largest revenue earners of the country. Still on the issue of wildlife conservation, the opening of borders has enabled an increase in poaching in Kenya. About a hundred elephants are killed in a year in Kenya (BBC, 2013). The free markets have enabled an international market for ivory especially in Asia. Poachers have increased in the country and this is one of the major contentious issues affecting the country currently under globalization. Another major paradigm brought about by the new era of globalization is security. After the cold war, the world was still in a state of security threats. Globalization has brought about migration of people, spread of knowledge, advanced technologies and extreme climate change all of which bring about strong security implications. The more traditional type of security threat brought about by political and military actions has become even more stronger with the advancement of technology in the globalized era. In addition, better transport and communication systems have made the transfer of weapons across borders easier and faster. Advanced technologies have also led to development of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) to spread across the globe. Not only are the super powers such as the US manage to develop these weapons, less developed countries are equipping themselves with these weapons. (Davis, n.d) suggests that strategies need to be developed in order to ensure this security threat is kept intact. He suggests that non proliferation tools such as domestic and international mechanisms for storage and transfer, multilateral export controls, arms control verification and enforcement measures would need to be evaluated. (Davis, n.d). Apart from the traditional form of security threat, climate change has brought about a new type of threat in the new world order. Climate change can lead to transnational threats that occur due to migration, and extensive competition for resources due to environmental stress. This burden may lead to threat of violence especially in vulnerable states. (Dabelko,2008). Take the case of the Ilemi triangle. This is a region that supports a fragile ecosystem charecterised by the only surviving riparian forest. The Ilemi triangle is shared by several countries, Sudan, Kenya and Ethiopia. The pressures of the Gibe III dam and the existing climatic changes may lead for competition of resources such as water grazing land and political conflict involving at least five ethnic tribes. In addition these tribes are equipped with weapons such as guns due to their pastoralists lifestyles. The Brundtland report had already addressed this issue in its introductory chapter of Our Common Future. It asked states to include environmental stress as a possible threat to national sovereignty together with the traditional political and military threats .The UNDP also suggested that environmental security was one area that should constitute a new global security paradigm. (Dabelko, 2008). Prominent reports by the EU, USA and the UK have also addressed this issue in their polices and identified strong linkages between security and the environment for the first time in 2007, the UN security council with a push from the UK devoted a session that addressed the environment as a security issue. Ban Ki Mon also linked the efforts of the UN to battle climate change with its mission to address underlying causes of conflict in Darfur Sudan. (Dabelko, 2008). Another strong body that has supported environmental security is the Norwegian Nobel Committee that called climate change both a fundamental threat to human wellbeing and a contributing factor to more traditional conflict. This was an echo of th e WCED statement in 1987. All the above described factors of the globalization paradigm could be avoided or reduced in order to achieve sustainable development through the global political network and global governance. However, the implementation of most of these international polices have failed and thus dire consequences on sustainable development. Global governance is described as a political process that is meant to address all the problems that are beyond the capacities of a single state (Zollinger, 2007). However, governance starts at national levels. Most states especially those in the South fail to address the human and financial issues to the international arena. The political leadership especially in the developing nations seems to have surrendered to the powers of liberation. Political motivation towards addressing environmental issues is lacking. At the international front, the Rio summit seems to have failed the sustainable development paradigm.. Rio had the hopes of placing the environmental crisis on the international agenda. The environment since the Rio Summit in 1992 has been degraded immensely. Green house gases are at an all time high. Its subsequent convention the Kyoto protocol has also failed to show its strength countries like the USA have withdrawn from the KP regime. The irony is, the USA is the leading producer of GHG emissions. Khor (2001) argues that Rio failed to fulfill its promises because testing of sustainable development did not occur during implementation. Instead, SD came under competition of globalization. Globalization was given a further boost by the Marrakesh accord of 1994 that established the World Trade Organization (WTO) the strength of the WTO was its system which was based on retaliation and sanctions. As the WTO grew, globalization spread and thus undermined the sustainable development para digm (Khor, 2001). In conclusion, the administration of powers should go back to the more neutral organizations like the UN. The globalization proponents the WTO and the Bretton Woods Institutions power in the global world should be neutralized. They are both proponents of liberalism and protectionism (Khor, 2007). Better presentation of the Southern nations at the international scene should occur. This will ensure a possible balance between globalization and Sustainable development. As for now sustainable development paradigm remains to be a utopic dream.

Graduation Speech -- Graduation Speech, Commencement Address

Good evening everyone. My name is Toyota Moko, and I am an international student from Japan. As the first-ever international student speaker on commencement, I am very honored to be here tonight to be given this opportunity to speak on behalf of the graduating class of the 2003. Born and grew up in Tokyo where speaking English was absolutely absent in my eighteen years of life, one day the life-changing experience came to me. When I was fifteen-years-old, the summer of 1998, I came to America for the very first time for the home stay program through my high school. The three weeks I spent in Snohomish have brought me a wonderful encounter with my American family. John, Margo and Jennifer Turner have truly become my second family away from home. Despite the fact that I was a stranger from Japan, the Turner family treated me as if I was a part of their family, even though I had spoken broken English. During these three weeks, I was exposed to many cultural differences between America and Japan, and I was especially moved by the American people and its society where one is able to not only accept, but mutually respect and honor multicultural background and heritage. Coming from homogeneous country of Japan, this to me was a very fresh insight, and I still remem ber how it struck me. After I came back to Japan, I kept in touch with my American family via e-mail. And they invited me to stay with them if I were to study at the college. I spent years preparing for my study abroad, and with the great help of the Turner family, Ms. Joy Fitzpatrick who is the international student program coordinator, and my parents, I entered America as an international student on March 11, 2001, only one week after my high school graduation in Japa... ...y just few weeks ago on May 17. My grandfather was full of ambition and care for his family, and he especially loved me as his granddaughter. I was able to make this speech because I do believe that my grandfather will be sitting in the first row and listening to my speech at this very moment. He kept his promise to be alive until I have become twenty years old, so it is now my turn to promise him to carry on his spirit and all the knowledge and wisdom he had taught me. And more than anybody else, this honor goes to my dearest Turner family and my parents and family in Japan for making it possible for me to experience this incredibly astounding journey in America. Congratulations class of 2012! From the bottom of my heart, I wish all of you a shining future! Thank you for having me this special moment. Arigatougozaimasita! (Japanese: "Thank you very much.")

The Gender of Sports Essay -- Athletics Men Women Essays

The Gender of Sports What are the social and cultural costs and benefits of an individual (male or female) entering a non-traditional sport for their gender/sex (e.g. women enter body building, power lifting, boxing; men enter synchronized swimming or field hockey)? In today's society, particularly in the United States, an individual entering a non-traditional sport for his/her gender takes on many tasks besides playing the sport, the individual also takes on the criticism (good or bad) of people who play the sport and those who watch it too. There are many social and cultural costs as well as benefits, but to what extent mostly depends on the sport and the sex of the player. The biggest thing that creates a social and cultural cost in the world of sports is change. People have a hard time coping with a change in the norm, especially when people are not welcome still to this day that women play sports. So as soon as a man/woman wants to do something different, there will always be controversy that will include harassment of the individual from sexual orientation to class, or simply what this change could do to the particular sport in the long run. A man entering a "women's" sport is very different than a woman entering a "man's" sport. There is more praise given to a woman entering a male-dominated sport and more disapproval given to a man entering a female-dominated sport. For example, when the ABL and WNBA, particularly when the WNBA, started up, many people questioned whether women could play professionally and handle the pressure of living up to the NBA. As soon as commercial ads came out for the WNBA league, it was done in a fashion to show that the WNBA did consist of straight women and it was not a league for... ...lp the society. In the short run there may be a slow start to the idea of the intermingling of sexes playing sports, but sport is such a moneymaking machine, sometimes change is what is needed in order to create ideas of marketing and in the long run it will be successful. The costs and benefits of this crossing over may vary from one society to another, but the biggest cost would be an unsuccessful emergence, which would just bring us back to the starting point. The biggest cultural and social benefit may be for that individual who succeeded in this non-traditional sport and will be used as a marketing tool. It may also create opportunities for the organization itself or society, like jobs in coaching, marketing or any other business in the area of change. It is also another way for an individual to have the chance to accomplish one's desire for the American Dream.

Global Warming - How Republicans are Endangering Our Earth Essay exampl

Imagine the world's major cities completely underwater. Imagine storms so violent that parts of the world became unlivable. Theses are images that one would expect to find in movie house, but environmental scientists tell us what is now a good setting for science fiction could soon be reality due to global warming. Environmental scientists warn that humans are not only making the Earth inhabitable for animals and plants, but that if humans continues with their current practices, the Earth will soon be inhabitable for humans as well. Environmental scientists warn that if the Earth's citizens do not act swiftly and decisively the damage maybe irreversible for humans.   American politicians have consistently rejected proposals for environmental reform. When President Clinton took office in 1993, he promised to become an environmental leader both internationally and nationally, and the proposals that he put to the floor of congress seemed to be the United States's first positive step toward reversing environmental policy. Unfortunately both his call to reduce greenhouse gases and to protect the world's biodiversity were blocked by Republicans in Congress. Since the Republicans have gained control of both the House of Representative and the Senate they have dramatically slashed and or eliminated the little environmental regulation that has taken place in the United States. 1   There clearly is a rift between environmental science and the Republican party, and it is this ideological divide that that is the largest threat to the future of environmental policy in the United States. Opponents of the GOP argue that Republicans are against environmental regulation because of their desire to protect businesses, while others argue that R... ... The Greenhouse Effect (http://www.iinetau/ ecna/info/greenhous.htmle) - This site was helpful in giving background information on the greenhouse effect. 2. Global Warming: Understranding the Forcast (http://www.edf.org/pubs /Brochures/GlobalWarming) - This site examines how scientists think the Earth's temperature will change. 3. What isthe Greenhouse Effect (http://www.marin.k12.ca.us/ kenthtp/kentms.htp/warmiong/greenhs_ref.html) - This site was helpful in giving background information on the greenhouse effect. 4. Forest Today: The Greenhouse Effect (http://www.nafi.com.au/faq.greenhouse.html) - This site examines how the greenhouse effect effect the Earth's shrinking forests. 5. Greenhouse Effect Visualizer (http://www.couis.nwu.edu/GEV/GP_3_6_87_5.html) - This website had temperature maps which predicted the effects of Globa Warming.

Tourism in Lesotho

It is called the Kingdom in the sky. Where you can touch the clouds and be as one with nature. The mountains of Lesotho provides serenity, a rejuvenation of the mind, a revitalizing of the spirit things which cannot be described but can only be experienced. And it is too true that if you have not been to the mountains, you have not been to Lesotho. The sheer majesty of the peaks as they kiss the clouds leaves one breathless, the cascading rivers flowing from on high bringing forth life giving, nature’s best, fresh clean crystal clear water. It is as if you have crossed into another realm. This natural tourist paradise is begging to be marketed to draw people from all over the world for the benefit of Basotho people. The mountains are but one of the many tourist attractions Lesotho is endowed with. Added to them are the falls the historical monuments which have enriched the folklore of the country for many years. All these places have potential to generate income especially during the 2010 soccer world cup if well marketed, making big strides towards the achievement of the national vision 2020. Promoting tourism in Lesotho is a sure fire way to social and economic development, and to the attraction of much needed foreign investment. Lesotho is really a wonderland for nature lovers or those who simply appreciate the wonders of nature. It has a real culture, natural history and boundless ecotourism options. Overview of Lesotho as tourist destination â€Å"Kingdom in the sky†, also known as â€Å"Friendly mountain Kingdom†. This popular eco destination is characterized by its remote, rugged mountains and deep valleys, with plummeting waterfalls that form a spectacular frozen stalactite in the winter months. Lesotho is truly idyllic destination. A mere four hours drive from Johannesburg or Durban is a place where the sun shines three hundred days a year. This country has the lowest point that is one thousand meters above sea level and boasts the highest single drop in Southern Africa. It has the highest road pass in Southern Africa at 3275 meters and is one of the few countries in the world that is completely land locked. Lesotho’s two main mountain ranges are the Snow-capped Maloti and Drakensbug ranges. The capital, Maseru, is the only city in Lesotho. However there are also several large towns in each of its ten districts. The ever-friendly Basotho people are eager to share their culture with tourists. The serene simplicity of their highlands life is enviable. This indeed is a country where time stands still. For the people of the world, the natural and cultural features that are of outstanding universal importance and value include the unique mountain wet lands and alpine tundra eco systems, the superlative natural beauty and the distinctive array of both plants and animals. In addition, the natural setting provides a glimpse into a way of life of the San who once lived there, documenting their lives and spirituality in over 40 thousand rock art images in almost 600 sites. Liphofung (place of Clarence) Situated just off the main road from Butha-Buthe to Mokhotlong, Liphofung (place of Clarence), was a stop over for Moshoeshoe I the founder of the Basotho Nation on his way from Menkhoaneng to Thaba-Busiu. The place is now famous for its museum and one of the largest galleries in the world which has the art of the first habitats of Lesotho, the San (Bush men) who lived there over 10 000 years ago. Some of the rock paintings Close by, with a height of 3482m (11 424 ft), is Thabana-Ntlenyana, which literally means ‘Beautiful Little Black Mountain’. It is the highest point in Lesotho and the highest mountain in Africa South of Kilimanjaro. It is found in Mokhotlong district, 15km (approximately 1. 5 hrs. drive) from the top of Sani Pass and it is to the top of Kotisephola Pass, 3250m. It is famous for its unpredictable atmospheric weather, veering from thunderstorms, very low temperatures to scorching suns or siege by mysterious mists which make it more unforgettable. These mountains are best experienced from within Lesotho. Historically it is here in these mountains where Basotho fled from the Zulu King Shaka, in the 19th century. The mountains became their fortress and protection. The route to Thabana-Ntlenyana is filled with formidable twists and turns of the sheer craggy mountains, majestic valleys and cascading streams meandering between the rocks. A combination of all these is a definition of a true scenic beauty giving a sense of remoteness in spring and summer, but a virginal white in winter. There is a friendly highest pub in Africa called Sani Top Chalet at 2874m above sea level. The route to Thabana-Ntlenyana is filled with formidable twists and turns of the sheer craggy mountains, majestic valleys and cascading streams meandering between the rocks. Combination of all these is a definition of a true scenic beauty. The plateau landscape is simply beautiful with awesome vegetation, open yellow plains and a distinct sense of remoteness , more especially during spring and summer seasons, but a virginal white in winter. Visible along the route are small stone build huts ( called Metebo in Sesotho) which are in isolation, deep into the mountains, in which rural Basotho shepherds live while looking after their cattle and sheep. There are many view points where tourists can stop to observe this remarkable beauty. This arduous trek to Thabana-Ntlenyana can be undertaken on a horseback or alternatively a 4WD vehicle. Thabana-Ntlenyana is also preferred for skiing, ice skating and snowboarding during winter season, which is from May to August. Near this mountain are the headwaters of the Tugela and Senqu (Orange) rivers, where fly fishing and water rafting are possible during summer season. Hiking, rock climbing and pony trekking are enjoyed throughout the year. Mornings here are such heart-warming with different kinds of birds with beautiful music to prepare you to the day ahead. It is with no doubt that a day is just not enough for one to be at this place because of the many activities provided here. Among the most interesting activities provided, here is ‘walking’ which really offers an ideal way in which to explore the fascinating archaeological sites found in this area. Afri-Ski The novelty of snow in Africa is best experienced at Afri-Ski which caters for skiing in winter. With a ski slope 3222m above sea level, Afri-Ski is the largest skiing resort in Africa. The skiers are accommodated at the New Oxbow Lodge and self catering Mahlasela Lodge. Trout fishing and water rafting take place in summer in Maliba-Mats`o, a river just a couple kilometers from Oxbow Lodge. Pony Trekking is another activity in summer. Letseng Diamond mine It is not just a diamond mine!. It is the world’s highest altitude mine with 3 kilometres above sea level, experiencing -20 degrees Celsius in winter . It is in this mine where the highest proportions of largest stones of any mine in the world are found. The discoveries states that in 1967 a 601 carat stone was discovered and a 215 carat stone was recovered in 2005. In August 2006, a 603 carat stone was discovered being â€Å"the 15th largest rough diamond ever discovered, and the biggest diamond un covered in this century† . Letseng does not only play a significant role in the economy of Lesotho as a mine but also as a tourist destination as it accommodates tourists who want to have a feel of the ‘Mine in the sky’ as it were. This is enhanced by the close proximity of â€Å"The Khubelu Hot spring. † The hot spring is at close range to Letseng Diamond mine, sharing social backgrounds and other aspects encompassed in Mental, Physical and Spiritual building of a living being. Khatse Dam This centerpiece of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project is a fine piece of engineering. The flooded valleys of the dam extend for 45km and the dam wall is 185m high. This dam is second in size (in Africa) only to the Lake Volta Akosombo Dam in Ghana. The view of this massive dam from Mafika Lisiu Pass is magnificent and is often of great interest to visitors. The centre piece of the whole project is the dam wall which is the highest in Africa. An area of the lake can be devoted to water sports. Thaba Bosiu Thaba-Bosiu is Lesotho’s great national monument. The mystical Thaba Bosiu is a flat-topped hill which was used by Moshoeshoe I as his citadel when establishing the nation. In translation, the name means ‘Mountain of the night’ and it is believed that the enemies of Moshoeshoe could not attack as the hill became a formidable mountain at night but went back to a hill during the day. The substantial remains of the King’s dwellings and villages and the royal cemetery of Lesotho are on top of the hill. Maletsunyane Falls Maletsunyane Falls in Semonkong is one of the highest single-drop falls in Southern Africa plunging 200 meters into a swim able pool whose stunning natural scenery is unspoiled by anything man-made. It is nearly twice as high as Victoria Falls, though not nearly as wide. The falls are very impressive, and can be visited on pony-trekking trails from both Malealea to the West and Molimo Nthuse to the North. Maletsunyane Falls are most spectacular in summer when the flow is highest, but in winter the water freezes, spraying the rocks with ice water. Conclusion Lesotho is indeed in a class of its own in tourism terms and the sensitive exploitation of its endowments can firmly place the country on the world tourism map.

Communicating with Children Essay

Communication is fundamental to organic evolution ( line-shooting et al, 2008, p. 11). This essay get out whence critically discuss how certain factors target affect talk and how practitivirtuosors may be satisfactory to overcome these bulwarks in their chance(a) practice. It will begin with a interpretation of conference, and wherefore state some of the unalike slip personal manner we over shoot down on a daily basis. It will move on to relieve the sizeableness of these fundamental interactions, and illuminate how heathen, kindly, environmental and excited factors posterior create barriers and affect communion with children.Finally, it will consider ways practitioners earth-clo peck become better at colloquy with the children they work with. The word parley essentially means to sh atomic number 18 and its desired take is understanding. It is a part of our basic take in to nervous strain relationships and is based on hypothetical friendship, heat henish understanding and envision (Crow et al, 2008, p. 7). It involves an discussion of thoughts, opinions, or t for each oneing (www. efinitions. net/definition/ conference) which atomic number 18 transmitted make dust lecture, touch, listen, tone of voice, gesture, playing, observing, reassuring, explaining and deliberateing (Crow et al, 2008, p. 7). Effective dialogue pot be beneficial to children and their welf atomic number 18 as it allows them to arrive at an identity, let out psychologically and intellectually, form and sustain cordial relationships, and express themselves emotionally.However, contagious disease convey betwixt adults and children atomic number 18 non always straightforward, resulting in barriers to their communication skills which jakes ca single-valued function confusion, discrimination, alienation, or create problems (Crow et al, 2008, p. 7). sensation much(prenominal) barrier is seen receivable(p) to cultural differences. Thr ough efficient communication, children mold the social rules of non-verbal communication, which includes em consistence linguistic communication and gestures.Learning these social rules are essential in prepare to slide by competently, however, communication is socially constructed, and body language and gestures consequently bear different meanings between and within cultures. The differences within sub-cultures are due to language acquisition, linguistic differences or adifferent m other tongue (Crow et al, 2008, p. 30). It is also non uncommon for children to develop their own language and signs by dint of the use of modern engineering science.This, on the one deal, is a demonstrable perspective of communication, as developing bilingually laughingstock lead to future success, and technology allows for origination and encourages relationships, but, non all children are as resilient as each other, and information two languages at once, be that speak or sign languag e, stomach overcloud them a great deal. New forms of communication tail assembly also be confusing for practitioners with little experience of modern technology, which give the gate lead to a reluctance to devolve and interact, especially between generations.Cultural differences stand thence inhibit as vigorous as influence communication (Crow et al,2008, p. 0) with children. socialising is of great importance for communication with children. Gerhardt (2004, cited in Crow et a. , 2008, p. 11) claims that it should start from birth be arrive at communication between carer and baby plays a see role in the development of the sisters brain. These first dydadic relationships and barely experiences of socializing contribute crucially towards a childs communication rescind over as they allow for empathic responses, recital of non-verbal communication and the understanding of emotions at a later stage.Children who are not communicated with as babies are reported to suffer dependant brain growth and global withstand (Crow et al, 2008, p. 12) due to deprivation of social click and care. This brook create a barrier to their acquisition of language. Be that as it may, not all children experience dydadic relationships, and they still peck to communicate. Hart and Risleys (1995, cited in Crow et al, 2008, p. 12) observational study of communication amongst families put forwards that the reckon of language acquisition depends on socio-economic status, and that the richer the family, the richer the vocabulary.The constitution/nurture debate thereof seems at large here in that babies may have an innate predisposition to learn utter language but that it is their experience of communication and articulation with key members in their environment that spurts / hinders their capacity to learn. A positive environment can therefore promote communication with children however, a childs environment can also be of hindrance in numerous other ways. Children with afferent sensitivities, especially those diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Dis lodge (ASD), can face profound barriers which could affect their communication.This is due to difficulty processing everyday sensory information in colourful/ bouncy so called child friendly classrooms. These children, by not be able to consider with all the information surrounding them are likely to become anxious, stressed, cross, or plain olfactory comprehension physical pain which can result in challenging conduct due to their failure to communicate their emotions. there is a clear physiological explanation for this behaviour in that the perception of bane causes the release of the hormones cortisol and adrenalin which resist cognitive and memory processes and trigger the fight, fledge or freeze reaction (Crow et al, 2008, p. 4).It is not only the communication of children diagnosed with ASD that are affected by emotions though. Children who have experienced neglect, demoralize or wh o are macrocosm bullied can all suffer in silence. Furthermore, the emotions of practitioners themselves can have an impact on communication with children. If practitioners are angry, sad or not feeling themselves, their emotions and means of logical sen convictionnt can become impaired. Practitioners therefore necessitate to find better ways of communication with children, especially those who face particular barriers on a daily basis.A scratch point would be to acclimatise themselves with what studies of communication skills and processes have suggested alert to model in work with children (Crow et a. , 2008, p. 22), namely communicative skills, listening skills and process skills. Expressive skills are spanking to convey messages to others so that they understand what is universe communicated. These skills involve facial expressions and body language. audition skills involve the total opposite to expressive skills, and requires the listener to obtain and understand th e messages and information conveyed by the other person.Both these sets of skills are important as they allow the practitioner to understand how they come across to others and to put down emotions. Process skills are deprivationed to conduct communication, and they essentially help the practitioner to chafe appropriate choices, retrieve information/ knowledge or collect necessary tools in an orderly manner in order to interact with a child. Practitioners need to be very aware of their expressive skills and typical use of language, especially in lighter of cultural diversity.As Valerie Daniel (The Open University, 2013 a) stated, body language says a lot, and on base gesture, it bears distinct meanings between cultures. Eye while away is one significant area of concern. It is one of the most forthright modes of communication, and where and how you look at someone can alter the interaction. perfect(a) at someone you are communication with can cause that person to feel uneasy , yet it is important to look at him/her in order to surface that you are paying attention. some(prenominal) cultures however caution eye have-to doe with all together, and claim it is a form of rudeness. Particular use of language can also cause distinctions between children, for example one disgraceful pupil commented that around the school when its white boys its a chemical group but when its black boys its a gang and I reckon its wrong(London Department Agency, 2004 cited in Crow et al, 2008, p. 16). It is important therefore that practitioners take care in their use of language as what people hear influences their perception (Kay and Kempton, 1984, cited in Crow et al, 2008, p. 5), and perceptions and understanding shapes the experience of others.Practitioners therefore should use their process skills to gain cultural knowledge in order to be aware of the different implications of expressions and language beforehand judging the actions of a child, as judgments are always based on personalised experience. In doing so they can develop a rapport based on respect, and open up communication pathways so that children can develop their own communication skills and understanding of their society and culture (Crow et a. , 2008, p. 1) As communication methods develop, experience indicates that practitioners need to prioritise ways of communicating their services by means of modern technology.According to Turner (2003, cited in Crow et al, 2008, p. 11), one attribute children see in an inadequate practitioner was that they are not refered. It is therefore important for practitioners to ply as much as workable with children and young peoples interests in order to get them to go into and communicate openly, rather than become introvert due to frustration over lack of understanding.Some may argue that information technology is damaging childrens ability to communicate articulately and effectively (Crow et al. , 2008, p. 38). Nonetheless, as Vikki pantr yman (The Open University, 2013, b) suggests, no one wants to participate in something thats not pertinent to them, and in todays technical age, it is modern technology that is embedded in childrens life valets. Despite lack of prep opportunities and funding, practitioners need to find a way of familiarising themselves with childrens culture.Children in turn will learn to respect practitioners for their interest and for not dismissing their innovative skills (Crow et al, 2008, p. 38), allowing communication and socialisation through the formation of collaborations. Providing opportunities for socialisation through group interactions could further develop practitioners communication with the children they work with as it allows the chance to look at open ended questions, which demand reactions semipermanent than single word answers.Practitioners must not however ask too umpteen questions in their quest to extend learning, as children tend to become wary and disown to open up. P ractitioners must also feign use of their listening skills by listening to the childs intent as well as field of study, not interrupting them and reflecting empathetically on their answers in order to show the child that they are interested in what they have to say. A group interaction such as circle time is a good method to purify both childrens and practitioners communication.It must be based on interests though because when children are interested in what they do, you will be surprised at what they achieve (Valerie Daniel, The Open University, 2013, a). Ground rules of kind communication must be set however, and these could be negotiated together as a group, but in the long run could result in helping children with their concentration, pickings turns to speak, thinking before expressing their thoughts and listening to each other, essential skills of communication for all, especially those who confounded out on being spoken to as babies.Practitioners can also go forth youn ger children the chance to communicate and socialise through play. Play allows the practitioner a myriad of opportunities to gain knowledge regarding a childs understanding of the world (Crow et al, 2008, p. 33). It also allows time to observe how a child feels at whatsoever inclined time. Further experience indicates that by providing toys such as puppets, toy animals or ski binding up clothes, the practitioner provides the child with a means of expression in a safe environment, allowing him/her to detach themselves from an emotional situation.This can also be seen on the videodisk material, (The Open University, 2013, b) where the child, an elective mute, used karaoke machines and puppets as a medium of communication. Ensuring safe havens would therefore promote practitioners communication methods with children who place importance on feeling safe. Children often suggest that practitioners could provide security by recognizing ballyrag as a real problem among pupils (The Open University, 2013, b). Practitioners could therefore prioritise emotional literacy by providing ways of expressing emotions such as placing bully boxes in classrooms.Ensuring equal opportunities between boys and girls would see the practitioner as being fair, which is an important issue during childhood. They could also operate that every child feels valued at the setting by simply being friendly or by cover care and support for them. This could be done by a simple hand on the shoulder or reciprocating impulsive hugs (The Open University, 2013, a), however practitioners, especially males, need to be aware of policies and the implications of touch, as contact can be misinterpreted.Actions must therefore always be above any criticism. Nonetheless, allowing a means of safety and ensuring a place where a child feels content can inhibit frustrations and improve a childs self-esteem. This can only lead to better communication channels with practitioners. Cultural, social, environmental and emotional factors can therefore create barriers and affect childrens communication. Still, as communication is a social construct, the finish to which it is inhibited depends on time and place.Practitioners, through knowledge of vital skills can unbosom these barriers in order to assist children quash their frustrations and emotions, and develop their communication skills along the way. Simultaneously, practitioners gain an insight into the way they are perceived, allowing them to reflect and become better communicators with the children with whom they work. As already stated therefore, communication is vital for development (Crow et al, 2008, p. 11), however it is now clear that it has been, soon is, and will be equally vital to the progress of both children and practitioners in the future.