Swiss forces have recently been sent to Tripoli to support the Swiss embassy, as well as support the people of Libya's mission towards Democracy. The number of troops and units has not been revealed for security reasons. But the Swiss troops are on the move. Many have questioned this move based on their general neutrality, but the troops have gone ahead, being assigned to protect people, troops, and facilities at heightened levels of risk.
It's quite surprising that the Swiss are sending out troops. It really is kind of shocking, based on most stereotypes that are made about the Swiss. They are a very powerful country, but they are known very much so for their neutrality. The fact that they are moving into a foreign country, to protect their embassy and people, and also to support the fight for democracy, is quite shocking. I'm not sure exactly what it means for Switzerland. But hopefully it creates a sense of urgency around the rest of the world. If Switzerland is noticing the urgency that has arisen in Libya, maybe the rest of the world will turn their eye towards it and help out. But maybe not.
I know that America has been dabbling in and out of helping with Libya. I'm not sure how Switzerland's involvment will effect America, but I hope it helps give us a clearer vision on how we can try to help Libya. It's a struggling country, and it needs help.
The Swiss troops marching is similar to that of the Ents march in The Lord of the Rings. The Ents were known to be a peaceful people, staying in their own place, and only defending inside their forest. However, when they realized the troubles that were brewing in Isengard, and even their own people that were at risk, they were willing to move in and take control. The Swiss seem to be having a similar reaction to the problems in Libya. It will probably be a lot less violent of a trip for the Swiss troops than for the Ents, but hopefully it will be a similar righteous crusade.
It doesn't really surprise me all that much that Switzerland is sending troops to Libya. Given the recent event over the last couple of years, there are probably many countries in Europe that have taken what is happening in the Middle East and Africa into consideration. It is always nice to hear about powerful countries like Switzerland trying to help struggling countries get through times of turmoil. I hope in the end though the troops wont have to end up fighting. That us hope that they can just be a peaceful deterrent for whoever wish to do harm to the country of Libya.
ReplyDeleteI'm personally surprised by the Swiss sending out troops. Switzerland has always been the voice of neutrality and the fact that they are sending out troops is surprising, even if it is to help struggling countries. I really liked that you compared them to the Ents. I thought that really brought your piece together because it is totally true.
ReplyDeleteI share Frau Drees' surprise. Even though the troops will be helping/protecting Swiss people, it is hard to believe that Swiss troops will be leaving Switzerland to support Swiss people and interests abroad.I would like to hear a follow up article about this topic.
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