OneWorld.net (U.S.)

Dear reader:

Welcome to OneWorld Perspectives! OneWorld’s new series is designed to provide more depth and context to key topics that define today’s interdependent world. OneWorld does not take positions on topics featured, but strives to present the perspectives of a range of different actors, particularly in the non-profit community. We also aim to ensure the prominence of voices traditionally left out of the mainstream discussion--those whose lives are most directly affected by these issues.

OneWorld.net is an on-line community of some 1,600 international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working across a range of peace, human rights, environment and development themes. OneWorld’s content is delivered in 12 languages through 11 regional editions published by OneWorld centers on five continents. Our news services offer readers a fresh perspective on world events and the chance to take action locally and globally on the issues they care about.

The “In-Depth” section of this newsletter provides an overview of the most important aspects of the topic from multiple perspectives. These articles are compiled by OneWorld editors and reviewed by an expert on the topic. For reviewing this issue, our special thanks go to Tom Cardamone. (Currently a consultant on foreign policy issues, Cardamone was Executive Director at the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation from 2000-2003.) The “From the Frontlines” section offers readers viewpoints from the non-profit community. By featuring the work of NGOs on the selected theme, we aim to strengthen partnerships among them and introduce readers to their important contributions. “Make a Difference” provides readers opportunities to get involved in a meaningful way to create positive change on the issue.

This newsletter is an interactive resource. Your feedback is welcome and encouraged through the “Speak Up!” page. Comments may be directed to . Due to time and space considerations, we cannot guarantee that every response will be posted. Priority will go, however, to those comments that offer positive insights or first-hand experiences on the selected theme.

Finally, this newsletter does not purport to have the final word on the themes it treats. To do so would require volumes of content, not mere pages. But it does strive to provide a foundation of understanding for readers, as well as opportunities to learn and get involved personally with these issues. We at OneWorld, along with our non-profit partners, hope you find this series useful and inspiring.

Zarrín T. Caldwell Editor, OneWorld Perspectives OneWorld United States http://us.oneworld.net