Human Rights, Water, and the Problem of Indifference

By Stephen Gasteyer

Initially Published on Word Press: March 15, 2018

https://gasteyer.wordpress.com/2018/03/15/human-rights-water-and-the-problem-of-indifference/

There is a confluence of stories today in the newspapers that are deeply problematic regarding the war in Syria.

First, it appears that the Turkish armed forces, in an effort to neutralize forces that might support Kurdish Independence, have seized a major water sources in Syria, threatening the availability of that most basic resource.

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-afrin-water/syrias-afrin-cut-off-from-water-thousands-displaced-idUSKCN1GQ0ZR

Second, the carnage continues with indiscriminate strikes against civilians and militia in Gouta, Syria.

These are clear violations of the laws of water and human rights.

Meanwhile, it is increasingly clear that this administration is indifferent — undermining the ability to respond internationally.