Sadly our president also appears to be corrupt and incompetent. At least he isn’t brutal although he encourages others so to be.
Over the millennia, government has exterminated hundreds of millions of innocent people. Nicholas Kristof deserves praise for shining light on yet another example of the evilism of government. Like his reporting about the genocide and humanitarian crisis in Yemen, this is journalism at its best. https://www.nytimes.com/2018/09/26/opinion/yemen-united-states-united-nations.html
While some intellectuals from Plato to Robert Nozick promote government based on their fantasies, in reality, government has not stopped harming innocent people. I would suggest to anyone deeply concerned about human rights to make a complete list of the people who did not deserve to be victimized by government.
By looking past the fantasies, we can see that, in reality, the partisan of government is a partisan of evilism.
3
Apparently the US is providing $193M/yr. to Sudan in aid.
(https://www.marketwatch.com/story/us-foreign-aid-where-all-that-money-is-going-and-why-in-one-chart-2019-01-15)
At that level of support we should have some influence. If not, let's start by turning off the flow of $'s.
1
How on earth is this Trump's fault?
MASSACRE
GENOCIDE
They’re such powerful words.
They’re such haunting words.
Shameful.
Those of us old enough can remember when the American president and other elected officials used their moral authority to speak out in condemnation of such injustice. (And, yes, I realize that America's record was not pristine; that this nation has its own past record of wrongs to account for.) It hurts me to the bone to read of the suffering of the peoples of Sudan, Yemen, Congo, Cameroon, Venezuela. What can one individual do? My tiny response is to take these peoples into my meditation each morning and ask that love and light bring a resolution to their struggles. It seems so little. Bless you, Mr. Kristof, for keeping their need before the eyes of the world.
2
Thanks for the invitation to get ensnared in a civil war in Africa. Because, make no mistake, that is what you are advocating. What good would 'speaking out' do? None, of course. What good would economic sanctions do? None, except to punish the innocent. Only military intervention would have any impact.
No thanks.
3
We've got one of those also. That's why America isn't protecting people around the world who are the most vulnerable like we use to when we were truly "great".
2
Much though I for one would very much like the White House to speak up in defense of democratic values abroad, the way they have been shredding them at home leaves me doubtful.
10
Now that the Christians and black animasts have been separated from the Muslims via the creation of South Sudan, we have no overriding interest in the Sudan other than killing terrorists.
Let them solve their own problems. They made them.
2
Al Bashir sounds like Al Beelzebub. He's definitely a war criminal. Serial genocidaire? Wow, I didn't know such a thing was possible. How is this guy not locked up in The Hague?
2
Is this the same Nicholas Kristoff who just recently wrote a column about how things were getting better and better?
1
And where does our "Holier Than Thou" Vice President stand?
2
It’s so sad to read about these horrific events taking place in 21th century. Thank you Mr. Kristof for always exposing these killers like Bashir of Sudan. He is, as you eloquently wrote in your piece, “not just a serial killer; he is a serial genocidaire.” Let’s hope that the President of the United States answers your call and at least issue strong statement and condemn this tyrant before he massacres these peaceful demonstrators. After all and as Ismail rightly stated “We need the voice of America because it is the leader of the free world, like it or not,” and I wholeheartedly concur on that statement.
4
Mr. Kristof: the world has told us over and over they are tired of the US being the world's policeman.
Various voices, many in the NY Times, blame us for all the sectarian violence in Iraq when we overthrew a cruel dictator.
Let the UN and International Criminal Court do something about Sudan. I don't want to send US troops out for a thankless job, whereby the US will be blamed for the next twenty years for the failures of another African state to govern itself.
16
@Jim
This is not about being a Policeman, it is all about Human Rights, do you see the difference Jim?
6
Thank you for your deep concern for these people. But what meaningful effect would a protest by the President or the Secretary of State have? Given his past actions, this leader is surely impervious to mere protestestations.
2
New York Times - Jan. 13, 2017 - 'The U.S. will ease financial sanctions against Sudan in recognition of what the Obama Administration says are areas of improvement.....a show of goodwill toward the government of longtime Sudanese leader Omar Hassan al-Bashir.'
Mr. Kristof, you've been reporting on the Sudan and the years of genocide by al-Bashir; did you find it unusual the last Administration lifted financial sanctions against such an insidious government.
You now want to criticize and blame the current Administration for failing to censure al-Bashir?
al-Bashir has been in office since Ronald Reagan was President - he'll be in office long after Trump is gone.
The Sudan is but one country in the continent of Africa where corruption is oppressive to the population - an estimated 90,000 children in Nigeria died of starvation last year due to a corrupt government.
You can't blame Trump for all the world's woes Mr. Kristof - decades of genocidal behavior by al-Bashir has been tolerated by 6 Presidents, including Trump.
Get over it -it's a tragedy....one of the worlds' many....it's no ones fault. It's corruption on a massive scale.
1
"Mr President, Secretary Pompeo, will you do that much?"
We all know they care for nothing beyond themselves and their small circle of less than thoughtful associates which means they will do nothing for anyone whose skin does not match theirs.
1
I am Sudanese and I left Sudan to escape the Al Bashir's Islamist rule. The international community should intervene before it is too late. This is Al Bashir who is designated as a war criminal. Now he is in action, plain and simple. Today was a REAL MASSACRE and a WAR CRIME.
This is the time for real action. The minimum is messages of solidarity with the liberal people who want freedom. The world shouldn't wait until it is too late. Instability in Sudan will only bring major problems to the region and the rest of the world. This is not a political debate about whether Trump cares or not. I believe he will, but how long will take to get the world’s attention?. These are real people, real kids being killed as we talk.
23
I agree 100% that the outside world should intervene to stop Bashir from slaughtering his own people -- and should arrest him and deliver him for trial to the International Criminal Court.
But, Nicholas, in this situation, what precisely do you want the Trump administration to do? You don't say.
The U.S. is not going to send troops, but should the U.S. urge that the UN send peacekeeping forces, against Bashir's will and offer logistical support?
Do we have the capacity to force Bashir to end his violence through economic sanctions? Does anyone really think that just vocal condemnation, from the U.S. or the EU, from the UN High Commissioner on Human Rights, or from any other source will influence Bashir?
Is it possible to get the African Commission on Human and People's Rights to take a stand? Would that influence Bashir? Can we persuade the AU to declare the Bashir regime illegitimate and force him to step aside?
I concur that, for humanitarian reasons, the outside world needs to take action to protect the protestors and even to change the Bashir regime. But I suspect your silence on the "how" is like mine -- I can't figure out what would work.
6
My previous comment contains a big mistake ! This is what I meant to say :
Thank you Mr Nicholas Kristof for your articles.
I don't think that Trump or Pompeo will (re)act properly, alas.
But it doesn't mean that America, one day, won't again elect a responsible president. We already have a strong Democratic Congress and we can be hopeful for the next election.
Thank you Mr Nicholas Kristof for your articles.
I don't think that Trump or Pompeo will (re)act properly, alas.
But it doesn't mean that America, one day, will again elect a responsible president. We already have a strong Democratic Congress and we can be hopeful for the next election.
1
Thank you Mr.Nicolas Kristof for your supporting ,informative and encouraging article. We will never forget your courageous pen writing what is matter. Thank you
2
What is happening in Sudan is unquestionably tragic. Yet I fail to understand what Mr. Kristof expects us to do about it. Issue strongly worded statements, and a "clear warning not to massacre protesters"? Great, and what if those statements and warnings are ignored? The last thing the US needs to do at this point is draw another "red line in the sand," get called on our bluff, and fail to back it up. As we saw in Libya, Iraq, and Egypt even if the brutal strongman is forced from power, what happens then? There is certainly no guarantee that a peaceful, democratic government will emerge. We cannot afford another ill-considered military intervention with no clear exit strategy.
4
@Nikki . You're right. Not much will be done about this because America (American politicians, to be precise) tends to avoid African countries and their human massacres. Sometimes we do a bit of work toward saving animals, but not the people. What can we do?
Thank you so much Mr. Kristof for continously drawing attention to issues that typically remain undiscussed in American society. With the government shutdown stretching on admist a myriad of social and political problems, it's far too easy to forget about foreign crisis and their human impact. While countries like Sudan oppress and silence their journalists and opposition, I'm continously grateful that journalists like you remain committed to exposing the truth.
96
@Sabrina C.
Well said I totally agree
6
@Monica Wolfson
As do I
1
Our lawmaker, our government and news media accuse China of Genocide on treatment of Uighur Muslims, at the same time, we are using dictators to carry out Genocide for our own interests and turning a blind eye to the atrocity.
What are the differences between China and US?
These are a poor people of darkly pigmented skin, and therefore of no consequence to trump and pompeo. In fact they probably admire Bashir's ability to get away with murdering his detractors while enriching himself.
What we should be doing is exactly the same thing the Sudanese people are doing. Before what's been done to them is done to us.
3
Genocide works. That is why it keeps happening. The Lucifer Principle.
1
Thank you, Nick Kristof for your tireless work. I know you are not alone in bringing to light the problems of the world, but sometimes it feels that way. You are certainly a very bright light.
6
Mr. Kristof,
I sat today watching in horror the murder, the relentless and bone-breaking beatings by uniform men on Sudanese youth right in front of the world to see. It seems that no one cares.
Just a short while back when the US embassy publishes a message asking for the Sudanese Government for restrain when dealing with peaceful protesters was enough to save few lives.
Recently the US gov. dealing with human rights issues changed drastically. Case in point Mohamed Atta, the former Sudanese National Security Agency head, was appointed the ambassador of Sudan in Washington. One of the chief architects of the Darfur massacre and 2013 murder of 214 youth, is now walking freely the same grounds that Abe Lincoln and MLK walked.
Thank you for highlighting the plight of the Sudanese people for all these years.
Amir Shingray
14
You are such an incredible American, journalist, citizen of the world, and humanitarian Mr. Kristof. I now better understand the horrors of Sudan. Thank you for outstanding journalism and the video. Yes, it was difficult to watch, but I will share it as far as I have friends, who in turn, will share your story, the truth.
10
Thank you for sharing your observations about the devastating challenges many Sudanese people face daily. We can write an speak with our Senators and/or our Congressional Representatives. Trying to engage Trump, I fear is a lost cause and waste of time. But what else can we do? Can Americans who are concerned raise money to help contribute food, clean water and medicine? Or to support and maintain the Doctor and Hospital featured in your video? You are serving and working to save humanity by working hard to share the tragic stories and challenges with the greater world. There are many people all over the globe who do care. Provide tangible "action steps".
4
Any title including the word "Free" in it has zero appeal to the current president. Leader of the "paying" world is more appropriate for our current time.
Mr. Pompeo recently reaffirmed to the audience at the American University in Cairo, the US support for the dictatorships in the middle East and that civil rights is not an issue of concern to the US vital interests.
It you think the current strategy of the white house is narrow minded and dangerous you are not alone but until we the public right the ship and get rid of the current occupant of the white house, we should stop demanding that they stand up for human rights or call the current president the leader of the free world.
4
Nothing new. The world always stands by and watches genocide take place regardless of clear warning signs, even proclamations of intentions. In no instance in my memory has one been averted by direct or diplomatic action.
We always just watch, a global quirk in humanity that allows us to become mesmerized by mass murder as though it's a macabre spectator sport. We'll do it again.
Welcome to us.
3
Thank you Mr. Kristof for once again calling our attention to a humanitarian disaster that would otherwise go unnoticed. We must not give in to hopelessness whatever the obstacles to decency there are at the highest levels of our executive branch.
Comments already posted by others contain helpful ideas for actions to take.
6
The ugly reality is that our current government doesn't care about the people of Sudan. And legislators who might have cared, would undoubtedly worry that they would alienate constituents suffering from the shut-down if they took time to defend people in foreign countries. My heart goes out to the people of Sudan, and the people suffering in so many countries worldwide. Earth is in a sorry and dangerous state. Thank you, Mr. Kristof, for making sure that no country is forgotten. My hope is that your column will make a difference, but it's a hopeless hope. I will reach out to Secretary Pompeo and my representatives and make a plea, but I'll be astonished if they show any concern, much less voice a protest. Even though we may not be able to make a difference, we should mark the efforts of these brave people somehow.
145
@Sherry Law
Sherry, rather, his voter base does not care. That is, if they even know which continent we're referring to here.
23
@Sherry Law
The current administration does not care about Americans, how can we expect them to care about people in Sudan, Yemen, Syria, etc. Caring should begin at home, but just ask 800,000 unpaid federal workers how much our *president cares. Just ask kids who are getting their school lunches cut how much Trump cares. Ask people who can't pay their medical bills how much he cares.
14
@MJ No, charity should NOT begin at home. It should begin where there is the greatest human suffering.
6
Many thanks to Mr. Kristof for keeping us all up to date on the horrors committed by armies and autocrats in places like Sudan, Myanmar, the PDRK, Venezuela, Nicaragua and so on. Insofar as the U.S. "response" is concerned, it's worth bearing in mind that Sudan has been sending lots of fighters (many of them kids) to assist the Saudis in their barbaric war in Yemen. No need to reiterate that MBS is one of Trump's favorite dictators and that he and his dad exert veto power over U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East and North Africa.
132
@stu freeman It is more likely that the Sudanese have little other choice for employment than to get paid by the Saudis to fight in Yemen.
5
@eqnp: You may well be right. Either way, the Saudis and the Sudanese have spent an awful lot of time backing up each other's depredations.
6
@stu freeman,
These kids are known as 'Toy Soldiers', and reading the account of Ishmael Beah born in Sierra Leone in 1980, it was on his way to listen to a concert with friends, leaving his village, that they were abducted by rebels. He describes what happens in 'A Long Way Gone', and he never saw his family again.
Let's pretend that this is a ruddless time in America, as Bret Stephens wrote earlier. A presidency that is fighting for its political life where we are navigating on semi-automatic pilot.
There is much to be said in praise of modern technology, and those who care about the genocide of the Sudan, as witnessed by Nicholas Kristof, can spread the word on Facebook and other venues; bring to the attention of America and other nations, ways of protesting these massacres and acknowledging that this is happening.
We are no longer in America or Germany during WWII, ill-informed and in denial that people are being slaughtered. One song only might be enough to wake us up, and others to join in with a universal understanding that this is not only about a foreign country, but for all of us, who can relate in some way and make a difference.
1
The President and his minions will do nothing unless there is a quick buck in it for them. Mr. Kristof is thinking of other, historical administrations. Those were the days.
168
@LTony: I especially liked that Gulf of Tonkin leadership by LBJ. Indeed those were the days.
12
@LTony
Agree Trump and Pompeo will likely do nothing.
But Mr. Kristof, could you appeal directly to Ms. Pelosi and the Congress to intervene forcefully with statements and hearings to highlight this monstrosity?
Since the Republican White House is failing to uphold democracy and safeguards overseas, why not have the Democratic Congress step in to show both the world and our fellow Americans that America has not lost its bearings and its decency?
And to warn despots like Bashir and bin Salman that evil acts will be called out -- and punished as appropriate when Democrats and democracy once again retake the White House.
19
Agreed.
Mr. Kristof, congratulations on being the prominent voice that convinced outgoing Governor Jerry Brown (just last month) to allow DNA testing that could potentially clear Kevin Cooper. Politicians, including Kamala Harris and Diane Feinstein, have helped reinvigorate the cause after reading your columns last year.
Let us hope that this same sound and tireless reporting will help revive American action to mitigate the atrocities occurring in Sudan. The United States cannot simply stand idly by and watch, blaming other countries for inaction. We have a duty to the rest of the world to effect change with compassion and humanity in our hearts.
You do us all a crucial service through your reporting, reminding us of our obligations to the world. You make a difference.
7
It takes only minutes to write a short message to your representatives, drawing their attention to this article and the crisis it describes. My own brief message to my two senators is as follows. Please feel free to use or adapt.
Dear Senator:
As often before, Nicholas Kristof in the New York Times draws our attention to a humanitarian crisis that should concern Americans. I hope you or a staff member has read his column today (January 17) and taken note of the extreme danger of an ongoing humanitarian disaster now reaching a potential apex as the brutal ruler of that country struggles to maintain his hold on power.
I urge you to join with other senators and representatives to frame a powerful statement and set of actions, in coordination with European and African allies, and to place strong restraints on President Omar Al-Bashir of Sudan.
Despite the ongoing chaos and danger to our own democracy and moral standards, America must do what it can to maintain its role, not as policeman to the world, but as inspiration.
Thank you for taking action to help save the people of Sudan from their criminal president; and for doing the same here at home.
Sincerely,
etc.
6
Our Commander of Chaos has blinded us to and distracted us from the evils of the world. For every new shiny object he tries to get media to follow, we lose our grip on the world's stage.
Now that we are no longer the leaders of the free world, we cannot deliver the humanitarian solutions that are the bedrock of our country's very psyche.
Shame on Trump. Shame on all who support him and his dastardly ways.
2
We live in a corrupt country where gov't representatives commit atrocities against people and protestors. Let's not pretend we don't.
Maybe our gov't representatives aren't speaking out about this because they realize their own hypocrisy? Let's not pretend we live in a functioning democracy right now; we don't.
Thank you for keeping this in the news, Nicholas.
Though we all know the current administration's attitude towards human rights that don't involve personal wealth aggrandizement is summed up by the Melania "I really don't care, do u?" jacket.
3
The USA is rotting from within with rusting bridges, declining education, and drug addiction.
Let's fix the USA, and let Sudan be Sudan.
None of this was happening until January 2017?
Mr. Kristof, you know that "empathy gene" we've all heard is missing from the would-be despot in the Oval Office? Places like Sudan are perfect examples of his lack of it. In fact, when that cretin in Philippines was murdering anyone possessing drugs, he actually praised the man's "taking control of a problem." The demise of a stalwart democracy, THE beacon of hope for the world's oppressed, begins when an immoral money-worshipper takes control. November 8, 2016, is a day that will live in infamy.
5
The Horror.
And part of The Horror is that genocide is an app — a present and repeating atrocity.
2 world famous scientists:
James Lovelock — “Under pressure, any group of us can be as brutal as any of those we deplore: genocide by tribal animals is as natural as breathing …”
E. O. Wilson — “It should not be thought that war, often accompanied by genocide, is a cultural artifact of a few societies. Nor has it been an aberration of history, a result of the growing pains of our species’ maturation. Wars and genocide have been universal and eternal, respecting no particular time or culture.” — "The Social Conquest of Earth"
And daily:
The Sky & Ocean are being converted into omnipotent terrorists wielding weapons of mass extinction.
The Horror goes exponential ...
1
The good people of Mississippi Alabama and West Virginia should be told about this genocide. If they let Trump know that it is bad, he will do something. He loves those states, and no matter what is right or wrong, he will certainly act on the wishes of his friends there.
Will they speak up? You know the answer. It won't even enter their mind.
1
A horrible situation, and a clear indication of what this world is becoming. Don't delude yourself into believing that this country will lift a hand, or raise a voice in protest. This degenerate masquerading as a president has all to often made his position clear as to how he feels about this nation maintaining it's position as a voice speaking out against injustices. The truth of the matter is, there's no money to be made by speaking out, so why bother ?
2
Time for Nigeria, South Africa, and Zimbabwe to step in.
It was this government, with the attempted genocide at Darfur, that caused the people of South Sudan to break away to form their own nation. Sounds like South Sudan is to get larger still.
Silly me. Read the front page lead to this Opinion and thought the reference was to our paralyzed Congress who are unable, unwilling (or both) to stop Trump.
1
If Omer Ismail wanted word from "the leader of the free world," he should have asked Angela Merkel.
1
Unfortunately, we have a president without an empathetic bone in his body, one who has closed our doors to all asylum seekers, even those fleeing genocide, which he probably cannot spell and doesn't know the meaning of.
7
Your are wrong about one thing. Sudanese have not expected help with their peaceful revolution from the world much less beg. They however want the media to give them attention and report atrocities.
3
Unfortunately your pleas will fall on deaf ears. Trump is an autocrat. Happy to sanction suffering (#trumpshutdown) for his own nefarious ends.
It's unlikely Trump could even find Sudan on a map.
7
Trump is totally incapable to even comprehend the global dimensions of US foreign policy and their utter importance to the rest of the world. This guy is a complete disaster not just for the American People but also for the rest of the world.
2
You know Trump only cares about Trump. Pompouseo only cares about Trump. Sudan? I'm sure they think that is some kind of couch. Trump probably it's manufacturer somewhere in Alabama.
Insofar as speaking up to help these poor souls, now you know better than that, too. Black people? Why would they care about black people who are so very far away? Do they rent Trump hotels? Do they ever get to Mar-a-Leggo (sic)?
Now if Sudan had lots of money to loan Mr. Bankruptcy in Chief, maybe. Otherwise, Nick, your best bet is to write another book and hope it sells.
Thanks, as always, for your columns.
3
They are poor, and they are Black. Two strikes already, in the Trump Regime. It’s strictly pay to play, cash or Oil required.
Any questions ???
4
The Sudanese are the wrong Color & religion for the Trump Administration to care what happens to them.Very Sad !
3
This is going on in Africa....the people who are suffering such inhumane treatment are people of colour...is it any surprise that no one seems to care...Ahhh...what a world we live in.
3
Recognize that THIS President doesn't give a whit what happens in any 3rd world nation, especially one that isn't White. But, to be fair, he doesn't care when Democracy and Freedom are attacked anywhere, celebrating brutal dictators in North Korea, the Philippines, China, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, and, of course, Russia. Despite the current cold-shoulder relations with Turkey, Trump doesn't actually CARE if Erdoğan slaughters Kurds, having abandoned them to potential genocide.
Unless Trump is planning on building a hotel in Khartoum, don't expect him to care one way or another what happens to Bashir or the Black Sudanese in the South. Remember, Bashir actively encouraged the Janjaweed thugs to rape every woman they could in Darfur to "repopulate" the region with children of Arab men. I cannot remember Trump ever having one word to say about Darfu about anything.
In fact, Omar al-Bashir is EXACTLY the kind of brutal, psychopathic dictator that Donald Trump seeks to be friends with and admires!
So never expect this regime to EVER speak out against Bashir.
7
You make me laugh, Nicholas. Ain't no way Republicans care about anybody who is not white. Therefore we never hear about Sudan.
Our life is Trump the Dear Leader. A Cult figure who guides his cultists to the abyss.
America must rid itself of our own garbage before we can help others.
2
Kristof speaks for all humanity. He is head and shoulders above other Times columnists in this respect.
1
We have enough problems here to worry about. Let the Sudanese worry about their own country.
1
"NEVER AGAIN!" they cried,
after world war II and the holocaust.
since then, how many genocides?
and how many were prevented?
5
"The people of Sudan need the world’s help to protect them from their genocidal president."
They won't get that help from the United States of Americafirst,
the people of which need our own help to protect us from our own maniacal president.
Very sorry about the massacre. The people of Sudan need the help of the African union and the united nation to prtect from the genocidal president. American troops are spread too thin all around the world.
1
Considering Trumps admiration of autocrats and dictators he probably holds Bahar in high praise. Besides we all know that if Trump were to ask Basher about the atrocities, Bashar would strongly deny them, meaning Trump would believe him. It probably is not to far out there to imply that if push comes to shove Trump could easily turn into a Bashar. The greater good means nothing to Trump. All that matters is what is good for him and his ilk.
2
It is amazing that someone even in Sudan would still call the United States “the leader of the free world.” For the past two plus years we have done nothing to live up to that role, and in fact, contributed to ongoing suffering and injustice by, among other things, our treatment of immigrants on our southern border. Mr Trump and Mr Pompeo have shown no interest in confronting the actions of any leader who murders, tortures or abuses the human rights of anyone. Even public outrage has had no effect on the administration and the cowards in Congress who refuse to stand up for the values that once marked our national identity as a “leader of the free world.”
What is the thin line that separates our being "active" in support of positions in other countries and the possibility of Russia trying to influence our elections? Or is this a case of okay for me but not for you?
You have scratched the surface of resignation, futility and apologism. That's at least a start. Sooner or later, this must end, but how? Like Tunisia or like Libya, Syria and Iraq, and the bloody conflicts, refugee crises, and destabilization that resulted?
1
Thank you for keeping us in touch with the world and the huge problems facing the populations living under brutal dictators.Your plea to Trump and Pence to speak up is laudable but will not move them.They are not sensitive to the hardships that they have instituted for asylum seeking refugees on our own border and they are even insensitive to the hardships they have created for Federal employees who are forced to work without a paycheck.Trump has only one concern-what is good for Trump!
6
Thank you for this coverage. It's the kind of journalism that I subscribe to the New York Times for--even though the drumbeat of news that deeply matters is too often drowned out by the competing noise of fashion and real estate in these pages.
7
Thank you for your continued efforts for justice in the world. I have some questions. If Bashir rules with impunity while being wanted by an international court, will strong words from anyone cause him to fear? I read that we have an embargo against Sudan which, apparently, is not working either. We have also the case of South Sudan which plunged into a civil war soon after its freedom was assured. The complexity of this is beyond me. I know we need to condemn human suffering and support people striving for a decent life, but I am not certain how we accomplish anything lasting if there is not a will among the political actors of a country to continue to work for freedom once a cruel leader has been unseated. Is there such a person waiting in the wings in Sudan?
3
"Perhaps 40 or more have been killed by security forces and hundreds more detained and often beaten."
Then no worries. They are much better off on those numbers than are the Palestinians of Gaza, and we are told that is just fine. Deserved even.
2
Speak up? It would be too much of a distraction from “the wall” for Trump—and Pompeo’s got that symbolic nose ring, as does McConnell and his herd of Republicans, with which they’re being led around the political corral by Trump.
I was never ashamed of my own country, until Donald Trump was elected. Whether we like it or not, he represents us, both nationally and internationally. What he and his herd of followers do with regard to what Bashir has been doing is a measure of our integrity and our character—as a nation.
I’m an old man, sadly with limited energy left. The youth among us need to take over. Your integrity and character are at stake.
14
Thank you Mr. Kristof for reminding us there is a world out there with much bigger problems than ours. I wish the cable news shows at night, or should I say theater, did more to cover world events.
10
If the people of Sudan were fleeing their country and becoming refugees or migrants, many would be complaining that they should "go back where they came from" and "change their country." Then when they do stay at home and fight, at great risk to themselves, the world is largely silent and pays no mind.
22
"But President Trump, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and other world leaders are largely ignoring these brave protesters, increasing the risk that they will be massacred." - This has nothing to do with the United States. We can't police every country in the world and we can't protect every band of protestors. We are not the "leaders of the free world" - we are one of the many free countries throughout the world - why not complain to/about them too?
@kz The United States has long been known as the "leader of the free world." It has often taken a hand in applying moral and economic pressure on countries. Mr. Kristof is only asking our so-called president and secretary of state to issue some strongly-worded statements condemning the regime in Sudan and supporting the democratic protesters. That is not "policing" a country. Mr. Kristof is not asking the United States to send troops to "police" the country.
16
Which countries support this leader. put sanctions on them.
Trump could do it in 10 seconds.
7
Issue strong condemnations? Like that's had world changing effects over the years.
5
We have lost our moral authority with the Trump Administration. Trump has told the world to solve its own problems - he's not interested. Unless of course it means solving Russia's problems - then he will hop to.
12
We can help. The Administration may be MIA, corrupted, and under Putin, but the individual people of Congress ALWAYS have a choice and this could be something that they can find a way to speak out about. We must back these brave people risking their lives. Do what Mudawi Ibrahim asked and NK wrote, put pressure, lots of pressure, on the government to help in a meaningful way. I know it's far away, and we will one day need the support of the good people of Sudan. SO make them close to you in your heart. They are doing the bravest thing they know how, and peacefully. They need our voices!
9
Thank you, once again, Mr. Kristof, for your Voice in our Wilderness! We, the People, do hear you! Our current “ leaders”
are mere Puppets of a heartless regime in the USA, top down!
We need to work our phones and voices through the HR, where people ARE listening. ( I would not advise your marching on the ground in this protest). Your Voice as a journalist is needed here!
My prayers are for those whose lives mean so little, but who are so courageous in the face of the INhumanity facing them!
6
Admire you so much for this column. However, I know you know that Trump doesn't care about his own American people so I doubt he will support any help for this country. Bet he couldn't tell you where it is.
2
Like Trump, Obama did next to nothing to combat genocide in Sudan. Our abandonment of Sudan was just as much Obama's policy as it is Trump's policy. Mr. Kristof tells only half the story. The fact of the matter is that the US has done next to nothing to address the violence in Sudan. And to pretend it is all about Trump while ignoring Obama's similar policies is just dishonest.
2
Strange to me, seems like an easy problem to solve: 3 maybe 4 tomahawk missiles with Bashir's name on them. We've gotta have that kind of technology, no?
Where is the War Criminal tribunal in The Hague re this?
They have been accused of only going after low hanging fruit criminals in Africa.
This may be true but two wrongs don't make a right. If what you say is true they should haul Bashir's body into The Tribunal.
6
@Paul
...and who is going to haul Bashir to the Hague?
1
@Kati-Very simple, get Nato off their keisters, a select carefully controlled military bombing against him without getting civilians involved, offering big bounties for his head, harassing him until he is either captured or knows he is safer at The Hague then in his country.
1
Thank you for bringing the Sudan and Yemen to readers' attentions.
Given his obsession with undoing all things Obama, perhaps try selling diplomatic and economic interventions in the Sudan to Trump as undoing the failure of the Obama administration's notoriously flawed foreign policy of “cookies,” gold stars” and “smiley faces.” Then maybe he'd step up to the challenge.
That said, as someone with such extensive experience in the African subcontinent over the past 20 years, do you really believe America's "democratic mission" in the developing world since WWII has been anything short of a disaster?
As sad as it is to thrown in the towel, perhaps we should focus on our government's dysfunction at home rather than have it try to fix dysfunction elsewhere? Besides (and by all accounts), much of Africa seems with each day to be more and more of a Chinese colony in the making.
2
The genocide should be condemned by all means. Nicholas : Wherever America interfered in the Muslim world it miserably failed. Why do you want your Government to interfere here also ? There are ways to exert pressure. Mr. Bashir’s funds outside his country can be blocked. He can be pressurised through economic sanctions. Pressure can be exerted with the help of America’s allies like Saudi Arabia etc.
Unfortunately, the world cares little about the African Continent- except extracting billions in natural resources. It's always been that way. The U.S. is now "somewhat" interested in the Continent- only-as-much as American Corporatists see the likes of China gobbling up the remaining bounty neo-colonial style with the approval of Omar al-Bashir.
This is- and has always been the story of Africa/U.S./European relations.
2
You are right Mr. Kristof, Bashir is ruthless murderer and if you think that if President Trump or Pompeo and other world leaders will speak and condemn the Sudanese regime you are mistaken, they do not care. There are only 2 ways to stop Bashir, through the Muslim/Arab world or by force and both are not possible. Why? in the case of the Muslim/Arab nations they will never fight another leader of their own and will never condemn him because it can happened to every leader of these nations. China and Russia do not care because they practice same methods on their people and the West?? the only nation in the West who really cares and can do something is the USA. Could you imagine Mr. Kristof what your media would do if Trump send US troops to save the protesters in the Sudan? these are the facts!!
Thank you yet again to Nick Kristof for solid reporting, deep compassion, and making us pay attention.
5
Your dispatches, your caring words are always heartrending Nick, but we might as well be holding our breath on this issue. If it's not a simplistic term, beaten into his base through hats and chants and more appropriately in to the mind of our simpleton president, you will get no action from this administration.
But thank you, as always, for your passionate reporting and incisive analysis.
You are a gift to humanity.
1
“I have covered all three genocides by Bashir, which have spanned most of the period since he took power in 1989, and I can never forget what I’ve encountered.”
No literate and sane person would expect Donald Trump to care about dark people suffering and dying in a foreign country that sounds like its sandy.
But, if Bashir has been in power since 1989, that’s 30 years ... so many other presidents and US administrations have failed to intervene and kick out this killer.
It’s not easy to intervene in these places, and to topple dictators and somehow implant a civil, responsive, just government. Democracy is hard hard hard to establish, to construct. Armies can’t do the work. We didn’t do much good intervening in Vietnam, Iraq, or Syria. And now we are failing to protect our own democracy from a crazy, heartless, hollow, ignorant autocrat and his greedy corrupt friends and relatives.
Why do we keep thinking of the US as essentially GOOD ... as a force for GOOD?
We are not. We are in trouble.
5
Article after article Kristof pontificates upon the problems of the worlds people, always neglecting those of our people here in the United States .
Trust me, the people of Sudan aren’t thinking about you, if we want to save somebody, let’s save ourselves first ....
3
We're already saving ourselves, gobbling up the largest portions of the world's resources and wasting like there's no tomorrow. We've got plenty to spare if only we'd elect leaders who care.
4
If Bashir cannot be brought to justice after multiple genocides, how can we pretend to be a world ruled by law?
1
I have a viseral reaction to the bald brutality describe in this article. Very difficult read.
The US has had a lot of blunders in policing the world's human rights abuses. Shouldn't the UN be intervening? Shouldn't the civilized world be speaking loudly and forcefully through one united voice, which I believe is the charge and responsibility of the UN?
5
Climate change is raising havoc all across the sub-Saharan region of Africa. Crops fail and livestock dies, leaving people with nothing to eat and no hope for the future. Despots take advantage of the situation to retain power. Diplomatic protests are equivalent to the meaningless "thoughts and prayers" USA politicians employ at home when they sit on their hands. There is no short term solution in this region. Had the USA led the world in tackling the human induced causes of climate change; and rigorously supported effective family planning services to the area, we could be mitigating some of the root causes of problems there and in other parts of the globe. No we let a minority of right wing politicians control policy on family planning services and climate change to fit their religious ideology. Too many in this country think we can ignore and wall ourselves off from these global problems. International borders have no impact on climate change. We think we can foray out into these regions, grab the diminishing finite resources there, then scurry back behind our walls when they are all used up. Our survival depends on engaging with the rest of humanity as a good citizen should and help mitigate these problems.
13
Nicolas - is there any Congress person who we can call to follow this closely? Thank you for your attention to what is happening elsewhere.
8
At the present the United States, and the global community as well, has only three possible responses to genocide:
1 - Wring their diplomatic hands, and issue strong statements of disapproval.
2 - Impose economic sanctions that hurt the masses but have little effect on the elites who are leading the genocide.
3 - Send in the Marines.
The only question, until now, is which of these is the least bad. But the Trump administration now added a fourth … do absolutely nothing, which is the worst of all.
17
Thanks for bringing up this issue. Unfortunately, Sudan can't do anything to personally benefit Tricky Trump, so they are out of luck regarding US Govt help. Hopefully, civil society can fill that void.
13
Mr. Trump has severely cut the number of refugees allowed to enter this country. Some of the refugees who do enter are from Sudan. It would seem that Mr. Trump & his administration's immigration hard-liners would be eager to take what are (for the US) fairly easy actions to help improve conditions for people in their home countries. No one is looking for the hard (and expensive) decision of sending US troops or (at the moment) of increasing foreign aid. Speaking out and taking other diplomatic actions might actually help to stem a tide of refugees sure to increase if nothing is done.
4
Caring is not a big part of what we do these days.
20
The president of the United States is no longer the leader of the free world. He is a Russian asset. Now, with the help of Mitch McConnell and a majority of GOP senators.
25
When I read about these situations I’ve come to wonder if we are not like other animals who turn on themselves and cause mass extinctions
We are just too smart to see the pattern.
6
Enrico Fermi is looking more prescient every day about the inevitable self-destruction of technological civilizations wherever they may evolve in the universe.
2
Nicholas, thank you for willingly being the eyes and ears of those brothers and sisters who desire for nothing more than basic human rights and common opportunities that we in the world's great democracies take for granted.
34
So, what kind of sovereign wealth fund do these protesters have? Can they help push through building permits for new resorts and hotels where we want to build? How many luxury condos can they buy up when the business needs the cash flow?
Nothing? Too bad, they sounded like nice people. We have other priorities.
44
This is why I subscribe to NY Times. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.
38
Thank you for writing about issues that we all need to be aware of. Shedding the light on places that need it so much. Your work is critically important.
39
@Stephanie,
Well spoken, and Mr. Kristof is our spokesperson for those who are in lands forgotten, far away and lost in the deserts. He cannot change public opinion, but he can enlighten awareness, and ask that we all pitch in as best as we can.
He might consider seeking the advice of The Secretary-General of the United Nations on the benefits of launching a Universal Concert of Nations across the world in remembering and commemorating our children across the borders.
A call to our finest and most popular musicians from A to Z, in honor of the People of The Sudan, Yemen, Syria, Gaza - and many others who are in peril.
UNICEF might be able to play a pivotal role with its Executive Director, and raise the banner. An international concert which unites us in the cause of humanity.
Lady Gaga and other nightingales from all over the world; rappers and wild swans to gather in this March; an Olympian effort, but it has happened before, forty years ago in 1979, and looking at dawn at a photograph, a press conference with David Frost of the U.K. and the Special Representative for the International Year of the Child.
We can try and not cry, remembering one day that we really cared about the plight of children of this world. Bring on the music, and let us remember that nothing ventured is nothing gained, to help those of us, victims and casualties of nations at war.
5
@Miss Ley
George Clooney went to Darfur and made an attempt to get help for the people who were being persecuted and murdered by their government. Sudan was divided then, as now. As I recall the government forces were on horseback, riding through crowds and firing at will. Not sure what happened at the U.N.
2
@Linda Miilu,
A Universal Concert for The Sudan and other persecuted countries could take place in each and every nation. It might bring us together, if only for a moment in time, to acknowledge what is happening in this world of ours.
An acquaintance on mission was elated when The Sudan became a democracy; and on returning to Juba a year later, friends made earlier were now in fear and tears. We can do better, and the young to lead us with their voice, and the music-makers to come forth.
Thank you Nicholas Kristof for this article which brought our situation in Sudan to western politicians and readers. Thanks also to those who commented as they added some momentum to the article.
We need every support to bring our situation in Sudan to the attention of the first world leaders and politicians. We failed to attract the support of regional countries and their paid media. We are counting on the US and UK press to provide more focus and coverage on what is going on in Sudan these days. Thank you all!
51
If they were sitting on a giant reserve of oil there would be action - especially if US corporate interests were at stake.
So much for the moral and ethical platform of the 'indispensable nation'
25
@Plennie Wingo
Actually, they are sitting on what may be the largest oil reserve in Africa.
11
@Candlewick - Production grew sharply for several years - output has more than doubled since 2003, when Sudan produced roughly 210,000 barrels per day - but now seems to have hit a plateau. At those levels, Sudan is not one of the world's largest oil producers: It currently ranks 30th, between Australia and Ecuador.Jul 2, 2011
2
@Candlewick
Most of oil reserve is in South Sudan.
Along with religion this was one of issues that caused fighting during the Second Sudanese civil war from 1983 to 2005 that ended with the creation of Southern Sudan Autonomous Region i 2005.
And South Sudan has been in civil war since 2013.
The Sudan problem has it roots back i 1946 when the British as part of ther strategy in the Middle East merged the seperate administered south Sudan and north Sudan regions to a single administrative region after pressure from north Sudan and Egypt.
That caused the First Sudanese civil war from 1955 to 1972.
5
At the time when the U.S. could act to keep Bashir in check, the sad fact is we now have a POTUS in office who not only doesn't care about the people of Sudan, but is admiring of him. I'm just hoping another nation steps up to prevent this impending "blood bath", because, at present, the U.S. is incapable of doing it.
40
@TommyTuna- You do know that Clinton stood by while 35,000 muslims were slaughtered in Bosnia right? You do know that 10s of thousands were gassed to death in Syria while Obama had his crayons out drawing red lines all over the place right? The incompetence isn't just recent.
The United States has failed to provide moral leadership anywhere in the world where human rights abuses occur. Just look at what happened in Saudi Arabia, North Korea and Russia. In fact we more likely cozy up to authoritarian rulers. But just because the current administration is corrupt doesn’t mean we citizens should bury our heads. Thanks to you, Mr. Kristof, for continuing to shine a light. I look forward to the day when the USA will again show courage and leadership.
81
Today it seems as if a third of countries in the world are in similar quagmires or entirely corrupt, have incorrigibly dictators and or entirely messed up everything.
Like planets, good, livable countries are difficult to find.
15
@jk You'll notice that this type of dynamic has increased much since Trump assumed office. It's as if they know the U.S. is unwilling to act under Trump, so they act with impunity. Look at Saudi Arabia; look at Russia; look at North Korea.
7
@jk Don't forget the ongoing attempt at establishing a dictatorship here. We have our own griftership in the making.
1
If trump pulls out of Syria to benefit Putin and his ally Assad, leaving the people who fought against ISIS for us, the Kurds, to be slaughtered by the Turks and Assad's forces, why do you think any representative of trump since Mattis would come to the defense of people being slaughtered.
Only if it benefited Putin would trump do anything on the international scene. He's too busy handing out fish sandwiches.
27
Thank you Mr. Kristof. Who are the moneyed interests that prop up Bashir's regime?
9
@rocky vermont Cabinet ministers, who over the years have become "oligarchs" in their own countries through raiding the national treasury. If Bashir goes, they all go. Hence propping up Bashir's regime.
11
“We need the voice of America because it is the leader of the free world, like it or not,” Ismail added.
Not any more my friend.
22
Make America Great Again, when Presidents of this country stood up for democratic values and the oppressed.
30
Corruption on a large scale requires the cooperation of outside bankers and courts.
France, Germany, Belgium, Holland, . . . Where are these funds being stored? Yep.
9
It recently occurred to me another byproduct of the manufactured crisis st home (the Bannon doctrine of rightwing anarchy and civil war instigated by PotUS and Senate Majority Leader for two years now is that there is no attention for anything else - especially dramas as the one described by Kristof here.
22
Thank you Mr, Kritsof for your article,
Unfortunately, Trump and Pompeo and other world leaders will remain silent while the massacre continues, This is a example of racism that has a long history in our country and well as in others,
18
There’s no oil or money there. No hotels, either. Nothing will be done.
6
@Mist There is oil, but much of it goes to China. My guess is there are too many dark people in Sudan for Trump.
2
I believe our People are being denied the presence of Reality....
the Reality of the World and and it’s severe Truth. Truth is being, I believe, concealed beneath the chronic vocalization of a
“President” who is bordered on the N/E/S/W....by Himself.
He demands, in his Presence, to be our Center Of Attention.
This Being Of Attention is, I believe, the mechanism Through
and By which “President” Trump has gaincontrol Of our Attention
and our Consciousness. While no one is Asking, I also contend
that our “President” has clearly and Publicly manifested his
own personality which is diagnosable as a Sociopathic Personality Disorder. His chronic and free-floating Lies are
an obvious indication of only One of the other Symptoms In his list of Sociopathic tendencies. He is beyond Treatment; we,
the People are in Need of it.
11
Human life has different value to this administration. These unfortunate human beings fall into the bucket with Yemeni school kids as far as things go.
Now, if they could afford condos in a Trump property, preferably paid in cash...
21
Unfortunately Mr. Kristof none of this is going to happen.
As you well know, this administration is incapable of fulfilling even the goals that they WANT to fulfill. The idea that they have the staff, the expertise, or the desire to actually stand up for the oppressed is a joke.
I applaud you, as always, for making us aware of the worst atrocities occurring around the world presently.
I would, sadly, encourage you to use your powerful platform, at this juncture, to save the USA. Until we are saved from this barbarian in the oval office you are spitting in the wind for any US leadership on issues like this.
I'm sorry but you know it is true.
17
One can only hope that Iran is an ally of Bashir. That might provoke the Trump administration to speak up. Unless of course the Sudanese government counters by expressing interest in building a Trump hotel in Khartoum. Meanwhile, the Democrats. I promise to vote for the first Democratic presidential candidate who says just one word about this. But I won't hold my breath.
2
@Pete
Unfortunately Trump appears to have business interests in Saudi Arabia where a young thuggish sheik is in charge. The murder and dismemberment of Kashoggi, dissident Saudi resident in the U.S., was an atrocity. Our CIA stated that Saudis murdered him in a consulate in Turkey; they flew in, did their jobs and left. Trump equivocated about that, just as he did in Charlottesburg. He accepts the random murders done by Duterte in the Philippines. We have a damaged sociopath in the WH, a man without empathy or scruples.
Yet another intervention and nation building. No thanks. How many times do we have to watch this horror movie, before the elitist pundits stop their nonsense? America is not the policeman of the world.
6
@Henry K.
“America is not the policeman of the world.”
No, not during the current, hopefully temporary, abomination of American politics, at least.
And by the way, “intervention and nation building” is not the only action the US could take, were the political will there.
11
@Henry K. What are you talking about? America is the chief policeman of the world, as long as its corporate rulers want to take what isn't theirs, US troops will be there lickety split to support a dictator's army and ensure the citizens area kept under curfew, lock-and-key, or the ground (as in, 6 feet under) while their resources are looted.
9
@WR: thanks for the reminder!
1
"They are begging us to at least speak up. ... Mr. President, Secretary Pompeo, will you do that much?"
No. They won't.
If you want to get Trump to help, you need leverage. Appeals to empathy is a waste of time.
Try Kompromat, condos, or Coulter.
It worked for the Russians, the Saudis, and American xenophobes.
41
@LT Is there anything Congress can do? Is there anyone in Congress on either the House or Senate Foreign Relations Committee who can do something?
It seems the US can't win. They interverne and it Neo - colonialism. They don't then it's abandonment and abrogation of responsibility.
6
@George S Bill Clinton is STILL taking grief for not getting involved in Rwanda. Time to stop second-guessing consequences and act. Oh, that's right... Trump's in office now. Never mind...
1
@George S Maybe we aren't supposed to "win" maybe we're supposed to help.
3
@George S That's because the US tends to intervene for profiteering reasons dictated by its ruling, military industrial cesspool of corporate families. For real humanitarian intervention-- not so much.
2
In view of the history and circumstances he describes, why does Kristof ask so little? He wants the Secretary of State to say "shame,," "please don't do that." Then let people die? Does Kristof have any policy in mind that might be effective?
8
That Bashir is a brute and cruel assassin of his own people has been known for a long time. As to why Trump and Pompeo remain 'loudly' silent is a grotesque cowardice, perhaps complicity in a despot's feast of destruction. Quite frankly, it is doubtful that Trump could show on a map Sudan's location, let alone feeling empathy for them...and try to stop a tyrant from killing innocent folks...protesting peacefully their awful lot. And if Fox Noise, the only TV he watches, doesn't care to show what's going on, Trump may argue the violence in Khartoum is fake.
22
What won't Trump do to stay in power?
2
Poor Sudan! No oil, so who cares? Perhaps China will help. Oh, nothing there that China wants either? Never mind, It's only Africa. Suggesting that Donald Trump exert even the least bit of energy addressing these atrocities without some kind of reward is like micturition into the wind. There'll be no Trump tower in Darfur.
1
We need the world to protect us from ours. (OK, I'm sorry, I'm neither ignorant enough nor brazen enough to think that we're in anywhere near the same straits as the Sudanese. I just couldn't resist after reading the subtitle.)
2
Mr. Nicholas Kristof,
I salute you. The people of Sudan will prevail.
We are going to have a march in front of the Sudanese embassy on Friday, Jan 18, 2019 to support the protesters in Sudan. Please join us.
11
We are 7 hours behind Khartoum. This is extremely urgent. We want to help.
1
Tragically, US has squandered its moral high ground by repeatedly engaging in wars on flimsy pretexts, committed numerous human right abuses in the name of fighting terrorism, and failed to build nations.
Secondly, we are witnessing a slow emergence of a multipolar world and it would be hard for US to militarily discipline countries. Further the US public appears to have little appetite for further adventures.
The choice weapon for US is economic sanctions, but I think it would be quite ineffective in an impoverished country such as Sudan.
Looks like Sudanese people are on their own here.
4
The cover of Time magazine on April 8, 1966 asked: "Is God Dead?" When I consider Sudan and the lack of a resolute global response to the ongoing crisis there, I think the answer may be "yes."
And anyone out there considering communicating with us need only look at how we treat each other in cases like this. We would be viewed as a third-world backwater planet unworthy of even an afterthought. We are animals in a cosmic zoo, perhaps to be observed, but nothing more.
It is up to us to stand up for ourselves with every Sudan, every time. When do we plan to make that happen?
7
@Blue Moon
Maybe Trump will get around to it after he notices the human catastrophe in Yemen where Saudis are dropping our bombs on towns and innocent civilians. They have also blockaded ports preventing food and medical supplies from being delivered. There is a cholera issue now. This is a terrible example of our relationship with the Saudis. They have not bombed our airfield there, so they are aware of what they are doing.
1
Mr Kristoff writes so well and covers issues I care about - he is 100% right and I will share the article and also pray for the safety of the protesters.
10
You know Nick,
I would not assume that Donald Trump knows what is going on in the Sudan, because if you consider that his briefings consist of short bullet points, and you think about his complete lack of interest in human rights, and in foreign countries in general - except for the potential to do business, why would anyone consider it necessary to tell him about it? You know how busy he is trying to deal with Nancy Pelosi.
Why would he feign outrage or even interest when he has no intention of doing anything about it? If his supporters cared, it would be one thing. But do you really think he's going to get involved in issues that liberals think are important when he knows full well that they'll never vote for him anyways?
I do think that an op-ed piece about what is happening in Sudan is worthwhile - but it would be more effective coming from a Sudanese local, rather than an American chiding other Americans to do something.
4
This column, in part detailing some of the indelible painful memories Mr Kristof lives with so that his readers can begin to comprehend the desperate straits and sufferings of others, adds up to a powerful challenge to anyone with a conscience and a heart. Ridding the world of tyrants is hardly a one columnist job.
27
Thank you Mr. Kristof for the eye-opening article on Sudan's crisis (and crisis for all of humanity). I will spread the word to educate my friends of these atrocities and hopefully they will tell their friends, etc. Maybe then eventually our leaders will do something.
11
Only bad news from Sudan and other countries. But I remember Biafra. A long time ago, and still only bad news. When and how will it end? Good for Nicholas Kristoff and charity workers. But ... it exhausts the emotions to read this article. What can we do?
4
@Margaret,
Become less emotional, and more active by the launching of an international concert to remember The Sudan and other countries abused and tormented; one to be aired and broadcast on our screens and radios world-wide, and accessible to all of us who care.
2
Bashir recently visited Syria and I suspect that an open-ended retirement visa was one of the topics he discussed with Assad.
3
It would help the cause of freedom in Khartoum IMMENSELY if Mr. Kristof were to return "aussitot que possible" to march alongside the demonstrators, which would also pressure the forces of order to refrain from firing on the "manifestants" even if they were given orders to do so, and I address both Mr. Kristof and Dem. Congressman Engel. Both might also become further"engages" and adopt each a Sudanese family or two to show that they are truly committed to the plight of the folk , to the country and its beleaguered inhabitants suffering under the dictatorship.. Author has reported from Darfur, and his articles have been informative,drawn the attention of the world to the crisis there, and to the failure, it appears, of the international community to intervene meaningfully even to the point of not providing the sole American doctor there--now it is hoped there are more--with more up to date medical equipment. Words will have little effect now, but if NK were to match his compassionate prose with his presence among the "manifestants,"and Congressman Engel too, their participation alongside the marchers would have a profound impact. It's up to the author and the congressman now to match their actions to their words! "Decidez vous!"
2
When was Sudan a "breadbasket of the region"? That was a slogan for a hoped-for future that has never materialized. Experience has shown that no matter how bad Sudanese regimes have been, the next one could still be worse.
8
@Martin Daly
It used to be a 'breadbasket of the region" but, as a result of terrible dictatorial government, it is no longer so.
That statement of facts (not a slogan) referred to the past but not the future.....
Thank you, Mr Kristof, once again for reminding us that the world does not revolve around what is happening in America at present, and it leaves one feeling the need more than ever for a Leadership that cares about these atrocities.
When President Carter was in office, the assassination of the Egyptian president took place. The news was broadcast throughout Grand Central Station on reaching the Terminal. His mother was from the Sudan, and he was much venerated by many nations.
During President Obama's term, a woman holding her dead son in her arms, a refugee on a desert mountain in the Middle East, was heard calling his name across the seas. America may not police our planet, but civilized nations across the border still look askance for guidance in these dark times.
A colleague on humanitarian assignment to the Sudan used to ask that prayers be sent for rain; but not tears, or sorrow. Tell us, those who are able and willing, what we can do to help those, whose lot in life, has condemned them to be murdered in plain view.
49
Thank you for writing this article, and bringing attention to the atrocities happening in Darfur and around the world. As the United States, it is our responsibility to speak out against dictators, and take action to stem their power and defend the citizens.
44
Our hearts go out to these brave people and our prayers are that they will succeed in bringing justice and democracy to Sudan. God be with you, courageous people of Sudan.
64
Hashtag NihilismProblems?
Most of America seems to still be operating under the alarmingly naive delusion that we have traditionally been some unmitigated, global benefactor, or that we somehow have the God-given right to reign over the planet.
The unfortunate reality is a much more nebulous shade of grey. The wealthiest country in the world doesn’t mean much when value itself can no longer be ascertained.
21
There are limits to U.S. power.
And who is the world is going to do this?
China?
Russia?
Saudi Arabia?
The United States?
Great Britain?
The European Union?
5