This news item over a Yahoo News, "The State Department's School for Revolutionary Bloggers".
This was an activity that started during the Bush Administration and has continued into the Obama Administration.
Should we be doing this kind of thing? While I am for non-intervention in most situations, I do think that providing tools for democracy to those willing to come here is a very good idea. While not everyone sees "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" in the same way, everyone deserves a chance to pursue their vision thereof.
Regards — Cliff
I'm wondering how events in Tunisia, Jordan & Egypt will echo in Iran.
ReplyDeleteThe Green movement came "this" close in 2009. That must have planted a seed in the minds of their Sunni cousins to the West.
Will it bounce back?
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The Obama online effort in 2007-2008 was very effective. The use of MyBO was crucial in organizing small events, run by activists. These small gatherings helped build larger gatherings when a rally with Obama was held.
In the primary, especially, the connection via internet helped build momentum for a candidate that was not "inevitable."
Unfortunately, when OFA was turned over to the DNC, it lost its luster, becoming a loud speaker for party driven messaging and small donation fundraising.
So, the gift of the "new media campaign" can turn sour.