Every choice carries risks, every option has trade-offs.
But the southeast Asian nation of Burma is the exception that proves the rule. The ruling junta is so exceptionally inept, immoral and corrupt, and the oppressed opposition so exceptionally deserving of recognition, that only one policy toward Burma is defensible. As the Bush administration enters a season of Asia-focused diplomacy, it should use Burma to prove its commitment to democracy around the world. Burma, also known as Myanmar, is a lush nation of 48 million people blessed in resources and cursed in leadership. There are some 1,800 political prisoners.