Mugabe Makes Mockery of UN

Despite suffering from gross economic and agricultural mismanagement, rampant inflation and acute food shortages, Zimbabwe has been approved to head the Commission on Sustainable Development, the United Nations body charged with promoting economic progress and environmental protection.

The chair traditionally rotates among regions of the world and it was Africa’s turn to chair the commission, but the continent's choice of Zimbabwe as its candidate has amazed and disappointed Western nations and human rights organisations.

Quite frankly, the decision is incredible, making a mockery of and seriously calling into question the credibility of the whole organisation. This blog has noted recent failings in the UN over decisions on Iran, Uzbekistan and Sudan, but this latest compact proves beyond doubt that the intergovernmental body is no longer fit for any purpose.