Decisions In Paradise

The catalyst of the problems on Kava is the natural disasters that frequently plague the island. These disasters appear to be the root of the problems here because it affects everything. The environment has been greatly affected by these disasters which has plunged the country into a constant state of chaos. Storm surges from hurricanes and typhoons have caused substantial beach erosion. Petroleum refineries have leaked dangerous chemicals into the land, sea and air. The natural goods that are normally in great abundance have been virtually wiped out. Often during these disasters, the basic necessities can be very difficult or impossible for the people to obtain. For example, in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the government was unable to respond with aid for the people of New Orleans for days. During that period of time, there was virtually no way to get food, water and clothing to those in need. Eventually looting began. People were breaking into local businesses for food and water, and in some instances just to take advantage of the fact that there was no form of law enforcement on the streets. That leads into the next key problem of civil unrest.

There is often a standstill of the local government and law enforcement when natural disasters strike and order is not easily restored. During the subsequent fight for survival, search for food, water and necessities, violence is inevitable. People as a whole go into panic mode and resort to any means necessary to make sure that their families are provided for. Violence and lawlessness can only escalate without order and order is very difficult to maintain during and after natural disasters. Terrorism on Kava and abroad has been on the rise. I believe that our current state of chaos only encourages terrorist behaviors here and abroad due to the fact we have been unable to restore order for any significant amount of time.

In many countries around the world HIV and AIDS has become a major public