As the situation in Libya continues to fluctuate and longtime leader Muammar Gadhafi's power appears to wane, world leaders are rallying to have a voice in forming Libya's next government.
President Obama said the U.S. would work with the newly formed Transitional National Council, or TNC, to ensure the power transition in Libya goes smoothly. He added that NATO's strong alliance made it possible for the Libyan people to free themselves from their dictator and praised the alliance's bombing campaign that kept Gadhafi's troops from attacking their own people.
Leaders of other Western countries, including France and Germany, as well as the United Nations Secretary General, also issued statements about Libya's transition. U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon said arrest warrants should be served for Gadhafi and his sons, while France's Foreign Minister urged caution in moving forward, since, as he said, "the fighting isn't over."
Quotes
"We must certainly remain cautious. The fighting isn't over. It falls to me to once again appeal to the last supporters of Gadhafi to stop fighting and lay down their weapons, as the days of the regime are now numbered." - French Foreign Minister
"Finally, the Libyan people, your courage and character have been unbreakable in the face of a tyrant. An ocean divides us, but we are joined in the basic human longing for freedom, for justice and for dignity. Your revolution is your own, and your sacrifices have been extraordinary." - U.S. President Barack Obama
"It is crucial now for the conflict to end with no further loss of life and retribution." - Ban Ki-Moon, U.N. Secretary General
Warm Up Questions
1. What is a transition of power within a government?
2. What part of the world is Libya in?
3. What is a dictator?
Discussion Questions
1. Why do you think foreign leaders were so quick to make statements about the transition in Libya?
2. What do the U.S. and other countries have to gain from a stable government in Libya? Why do you think NATO got involved in the fighting there?
3. Do you think statements from world leaders and the U.N. will or can make a difference in how things play out in Libya? Why or why not?
Additional Resources
