John Edwards
What should be the role of human rights in U.S. foreign policy? What should the United States do about human rights violations in places such as Burma, China, Pakistan, and Russia?
Edwards wrote in Foreign Affairs that, when engaging with other nations (specifically China) on issues “such as trade, climate change, and human rights, our overarching goal must be to get China to commit to the rules that govern the conduct of nations.” In a December debate, Edwards said he would use America’s diplomatic and economic leverage to hold China accountable in the WTO.
What should the United States do to stop the genocide in Darfur?
In a June debate, Edwards advocated a no fly zone and a bigger security force on the ground. He also wants to pressure the Chinese about their relationship with Sudan. He has argued that the United States should make a commitment of airlift capabilities, logistical support, and intelligence systems to assist in Peacekeeping efforts and that NATO member states should impose multilateral sanctions on the Sudanese government and freeze the foreign assets of individuals complicit in the genocide.
Fox News reported in May that Edwards was planning to divest his holdings of Sudan-related stock.
When, if ever, should the United States engage in military action to stop genocide or ethnic cleansing?
Edwards believes that offensive force can be used only after all other options have been exhausted. He argues there are times when military force is necessary: when protecting vital national interests, responding to acts of aggression, protecting treaty allies, preventing terrorists from gaining access to nuclear weapons, and preventing or stopping genocide.
Should the United States close the prison camp in Guantanamo? If so, what should be done with the prisoners there?
Edwards believes the United States should close Guantanamo, ban torture, and restore habeas corpus.
Are there any circumstances for when torture or extreme techniques of interrogation is appropriate?
Edwards has said that he is against torture and believes it should be banned.
Should labor rights provisions be included in future trade agreements?
Edwards argues for strong labor laws that require companies to follow the core labor rights defined by the ILO. These include the right to organize and bargain collectively and prohibitions against forced labor, child labor, and discrimination. As part of his comprehensive plan for dealing with labor and trade, he argues for “smart trade” policies that insist on pro-worker provisions in new deals that build a global middle class and reduce poverty.
How can the United States best promote democracy around the world?
Edwards has said that we must restore America’s “moral leadership” by reengaging with other countries and by leading the fight to eradicate global poverty and provide universal primary education. He argues that to achieve democracy in the Middle East we must disengage from Iraq by immediately withdrawing 40,000 to 50,000 U.S. troops, leaving only enough to prevent genocide or civil war.
He has proposed several new international institutions committed to democracy promotion, increasing U.S support for international democracy programs, and reorienting U.S. aid programs to promote democracy including the following:
- An “Organization for Security and Cooperation in the Middle East” as well as a “Middle East Partnership Program” at NATO.
- A “Freedom List” of dissidents imprisoned for peaceful political or religious expression to shed light on countries that incarcerate political prisoners.
- A “Democracy Caucus” in the United Nations with leadership given to states that have established commitments to human rights.
Position on ICC ratification.
Edwards believes that the United States should be a part of the ICC. The Washington Post quoted him: “When America doesn’t engage in these international institutions, when we show disrespect for international agreements, it makes it extraordinarily difficult when we need the world community to rally around us to get them here… We should be the natural leader in all of these areas.”
