The World's Expectationfor the New U.S. President

The victory of Democratic candidate Barack Obama in the U.S. presidential election is a historic event. By electing an African-American to the most powerful position in the country, American voters have not only destroyed the notion of racism but have also expressed their strong desire to change America’s domestic and foreign policies. In an address to his supporters, Republican presidential candidate John McCain accepted his defeat and congratulated Obama, evidencing the strength of America’s democratic traditions. President George W. Bush also extended his congratulations to Senator Barack Obama. Leaders from all over the world, including Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, also conveyed their congratulations to Obama. For the first time in January 2009, an African-American will have full control of the White House. The American people’s decision demonstrates the maturity of their political system, which has reached a point where the majority of people, who once were victims of racial discrimination, voted for equality and human values. It is not too soon to expect America to use the same hope to also reject a campaign of hate against the Islamic world and Muslims. The slogan of change Barack Obama used to win over the hearts of Americans would not only be limited to U.S. domestic policies but also extended to U.S. forces from Afghanistan, which will be pulled out out the country after quitting Iraq. The American leadership isn’t acting smart by unduly pressuring its ally Pakistan and by attacking Pakistani tribal areas with spy planes. A better policy would be to help the Pakistani government fight terrorism by providing her with intelligence information along with resources where military operations are necessary. Such a policy would also encourage the peace process where talks can make a difference. American policies impact those living in Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia, which explains why Obama’s slogan of change has attracted people from all over the world. It will be interesting to see how the new American president manages to satisfy the expectations of Americans and the rest of the world.

The way American voters participated in the elections on November 4th is an event in itself. The American people reacted strongly against the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, policies after September 11th, the Patriot Act and its implications and the economic crisis. However, the significance of this election is not limited only to the U.S. As a super power, the entire world world takes an interest in U.S. elections. The belief that the arrogance and selfishness in American behavior must be controlled has grown stronger throughout the rest of the world. Americans live on this planet too. Considering oneself superior to another does not correspond with human values. It is true that America is a super power, its people have equal rights and opportunities and foreigners also have same access to the same opportunities that citizens enjoy. However, the policies adopted after September 11th not only annoyed the American people but also upset other nations as well. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have thrown the American economy in a deep financial crisis. Thanks to Bush’s policies, hatred against U.S. has grown deep. The American people have responded to these issues in the elections. It is in this hour of need that a new leadership analyze the current situation and take the appropriate steps. Barack Obama never supported Bush’s policies toward Iraq. In 2003, when Bush was giving Saddam a 48-hour ultimatum to leave Iraq, Obama was leading a rally protesting the war in Chicago. Now that Obama has been elected president, the chances of troop withdrawal from Iraq is more likely. NATO forces in Afghanistan have also admitted that they cannot win the war. This has prompted negotiations with the Taliban with the goal of making conditions there tolerable for American troops. Rhetoric that supports forceful regime change in other countries and the deployment of troops to other countries, in an effort to defend American interests, has stirred the world. After popular vote against such policies, the new U.S. administration should take a fresh look at the situation. The world community, especially third world countries, believes that America has a right to lead the world because she has developed herself through the modern sciences. Preserving these values can guarantee American superiority in global community.