The Foreign Service Journal, May 2004

We must understand that as Iraqis awaken from the nightmare that was Saddam Hussein, global leadership through the rule of law is more impor- tant than ever. To promote a con- trived trial of Saddam and other Ba’th Party members will set a dangerously low standard for future Iraqi govern- ments. We must be wary of reinvent- ing Iraqi cronyism in whatever guise, however convenient it may be simply to go through the motions of a trial to dispose of Hussein and his hench- men. Democracy deserves better. The U.S. and the Iraqi Governing Council must therefore respond to Saddam’s “rule by force” governance by demonstrating their commitment to the “rule of law.” Any court that seeks to prosecute Saddam must be convened upon legitimate authority. It must be independent and impartial, and it must afford due process of law. Anything less will not only violate international law, but will undermine efforts to revive respect for the rule of law in Iraq. Jason D. Söderblom is an analyst with the Terrorism Intelligence Centre in Canberra, Australia. He writes about risk analysis in relation to suicide bioterrorism, the rule of law, and the application of the laws of war. The views expressed here are not necessar- ily those of the Terrorism Intelligence Centre. M A Y 2 0 0 4 / F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L 17 S P E A K I N G O U T Any court convened and backed by an occupying army will be seen as meting out victor’s justice. 2400 Virginia Ave., N.W Washington, D.C., 20037 Tel: (202) 293-2000 E-mail: leasingoffice@columbiaplaza.net Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 AM-5:30 PM Sat 10:00 AM-4:00 PM 24 Hour Front Desk Garage Parking Avaliable Controlled Access Potomac River Views Minutes to Fine Dining Newly Renovated Kitchens Directly across the street from Main State, minutes to Kennedy Center and Georgetown Beautiful and Spacious: Efficiency$1,100 - $1,250 1 Bedroom 1,400 - 1,700 2 Bedroom 2,100 - 2,700 Utilities Included Complimentary Voice Mail Courtyard Style Plaza Polished Hardwood Floors Private Balconies Huge Walk-in Closets Toll Free 1-888-240-5131 Capital Living With Comfort and Convenience 24 Hour Fitness Center columbia plaza apartments