In Yemen, bullets greet demand for social change

Posted at 11:45 AM on October 17, 2011 by Paul Tosto
Filed under: Politics

No matter what you think of the Occupy Minnesota protesters, they've been peaceful and there's a working relationship with local law enforcement and government. There's even a discussion expected this afternoon between Hennepin County commissioners and protesters seeking permission to set up shelters.

That sort of civility is nowhere to be found in Yemen, where protesters are being shot and killed demonstrating against that country's president.

Obviously, the stakes are higher in Yemen, where an autocrat clings to power.

The UN Security Council this week is expected to weigh a resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire and transfer of power in Yemen.

The UN already knows it's more than a political crisis there, it's turning quickly into a potential humanitarian disaster.

The UN's World Food Programme last week acknowledged:

An increase in food prices, political uncertainty and fuel shortages are severely straining Yemenis' ability to feed their families...the country is now facing a serious humanitarian situation.

"Rising food prices and political instability have left millions of people in Yemen hungry and vulnerable. Malnutrition is stalking the lives of women and children," said WFP's Executive Director Josette Sheeran.