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...the consolidation of a stable and democratic Iraq after the overthrow of Saddam Hussein is a part of what America owes to the Iraqi people, owes to the region, and owes to ourselves so that our own security is there. Chris, it would be like saying that after Adolf Hitler was overthrown, we needed to change then the resolution that allowed the United States to do that so that we could deal with creating a stable environment in Europe after he was overthrown.

Condoleezza Rice#35

SecurityPolicyIraqDemocracyObligationStability

About this quote

What does it mean?
Rice compares stabilizing Iraq to post-WWII Europe, arguing America owes this to Iraqis and itself for security.
In plain terms
Building a stable Iraq is necessary for security, just like Europe after Hitler.
What can you take from it?
Post-conflict stability is a moral and security obligation.

Where it applies

  • post-conflict planning
  • international relations
  • policy rationale

Putting it to work

  • nation-building efforts
  • democratic reforms

Questions to consider

  • What does a nation owe a liberated one?
  • How do we ensure post-war stability?

Another view

The analogy to post-WWII Europe overlooks cultural and historical differences.

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