A roundup of South America and the Middle-East: this week’s show now available

andrew — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 20:49:55 +0000

The show is now on Radio4All and Audioport. This week we cover more geography than usual:

We start, as usual, with the Panos Institute news bulletin.
Ecuador is in the process of putting in place a ban on foreign military bases
Chevron using the US Trade Representative to put pressure on Ecuador and resist an environmental lawsuit. The money quote? We Can’t Let Little Countries Screw Around With Big Companies
Disputes in Bolivia about attempts to reform constitution. Rich, white provinces (illegally) undertake ‘autonomy’ referendums to protect their privilege.
Venezuela’s Citgo to offer Venezuelan coffee at their service stations. Post-air update: this is currently a pilot program in Chicago, Boston, and Philadelphia, and Citgo will expand it if there is interest.
AIPAC-backed Congressional resolution calling for blockade of Iran losing steam. Four original sponsors have now revoked their support.
Ultimatum on ‘Freeze for Freeze’ proposal coming up this weekend.
Possibilities of a US ‘interests section’ in Iran.
Prof. Francis Boyle of Illinois says Iran should sue the USA in the International Court of Justice. We discuss the positive normative and diplomatic aspects of such a move. A video interview with Prof. Boyle is available on YouTube.
US still negotiating ‘security agreement’ with Iraq – have now missed their original deadline. We discuss the issue of ‘permanent’ and ‘enduring’ bases.
Iraqi government supports Obama’s call for a timetable on withdrawal.
Increased opposition to calls for more troops being sent to Afghanistan – even Thomas Friedman has criticized Obama’s calls for more troops.

A Critical Ear » militarism

A roundup of South America and the Middle-East: this week’s show now available