I chose to talk about Inner Peace and Human Rights, I really liked this essay because it brought to light how important it is consider different ways to prove a point. It discussed how Dalai Lama was able to prove his point showing that we need to figure ourselves out instead of being so dependent on things for our satisfaction. He said that "In some countries too much attention is paid to external things and very little importance is given to inner development. I believe both are important and must be developed side by side so as to achieve a good balance between them."
Awareness.
Madagascar has been facing great government corruption, which resulted in a few large conflicts between the government and the people. Finally a coup in 2009 overthrew the President Marc Ravalomanana and replaced him with Andry Rejoelina. Though this issues haven't been solved, with about 70% of the population living below the Madagascar's poverty level at 45 cents a day. Other issues this country faces includes a very high infant mortality rate, being the 4th most corrupt nation, and finally they've destroyed 75% of their forests in 1994. My hope for this country is that they can pull together to form a true republic, in which their votes can actually be counted instead of falsely being represented. I also think that this country will need help in preserving their resources, they are rich in many things, but if not careful they will soon be corrupt and without goods. This effects us because we have given aid to Madagascar, we should keep an eye on the countries we invest in and try to encourage their growth, instead of just throwing money at a bad situation. In response to this situation you can become more aware of the issues these people face and support them in responsible ways. Madagascar exports many metals and jewels, but they also have a large wildlife black market. So as you shop be aware of what your purchasing and where it's coming from. If you can, purchase Fair Trade products which make sure that a fair portion of the profits go to those who made the product.
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| Photo of the protests during the 2009 coup. |
Was interesting to read, I had no idea corruption was going on in Madagascar.
ReplyDeleteI also liked the Peace and Human rights essay. I agree that there are way too many people who care too much about money and physical possessions and not enough about their own personal lives and inner development.
ReplyDeleteAnd the corruption in Madagascar is something I didn't know about. It's weird to think about the people in these countries, and the situation they're in. And the fact that poverty is 45 cents/day? Thats absolutely nothing! And to think that 70% of the population is living on less than that? Thats incredible, and I wish them the best, and hope they countries like that can eventually get into a better situation.
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ReplyDeleteThe Peace and Human rights essay was my favorite as well. I love the Dalai Lama and all of his messages. I feel if more people were to follow his beliefs and ideas we would have a much more peaceful world to live in. Reading about Madagascar was interesting because I didn't know anything was going on there. That is sad to hear and I hope we can help their people and their economy.
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