Monday, April 05, 2021

No Win!

Some difficult problems that call out loudly for a solution seem impossible to resolve.  For example:

Afghanistan - After fighting a war that been going on for two decades and which cannot be won by the U.S. and our allies, or won by the Afghan government or won by the Taliban, talks between the parties are going on.  Its not likely that if we leave the government will be able to resist the Taliban and Afghanistan will be like it was before we got involved.  So will we leave?  Yes.  Frustration (and the Taliban) will win.  There must be a way to achieve a better result, yes?  Sorry, it's a No Win situation.

The Border - Last month 170,000 people crossed our southern border, the most in 15 years.  Why is this going on and getting worse?  Choose your reason: Biden's approach to immigration?  The appeal of jobs in the Spring?  A worsening situation in Central America?  Families wanting to reunite?  Are we able to provide safety and good living conditions for these people, especially children?  No way.  Do we have an immigration policy that promises an end to this nightmare?  Not even close.  Sorry, it's a No Win situation.

Guantánamo - Here's another two decade old problem that defies resolution.  There are still 40 people locked up and no reasonable chance that there is a light at the end of this tunnel.  Most of the detainees are not even accused of a crime.  They're just stuck in a hellish limbo, victims of political and legalistic obstacles that seem endless.  This is human rights on our watch.  Sorry, it's a No Win situation.

There are more, but that's enough for now.  Have a nice day!