Opinion: Our man of peace

All Americans should take pride in the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to former President Jimmy Carter. The honor recognizes Carter's postpresidential work on behalf of democracy and human decency, qualities that the United States at its best has long championed around the world.

The Nobel Committee sometimes has come to regret its choices for the peace prize. It is hard to imagine less worthy recipients than former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, who kept the Vietnam War going long after it became apparent the conflict was unwinnable; or Palestine Liberation Organization chairman Yasser Arafat, whose Middle East agenda has been one of violence, not peace. But this year, the committee got it right.

Since leaving the presidency after one term in 1980, Carter has distinguished himself as a peacemaker and advocate of democracy and human rights around the world. The peanut farmer from Plains, Ga., has used the authority afforded former presidents to build a legacy of good works around the world. A man of deeply held religious convictions, Carter has used his skills as a diplomat and mediator to calm situations in Haiti, North Korea, Panama and numerous other hot spots. His presence is so trusted, he has been welcomed as an international election observer all over the world.

At times, the 78-year-old Carter has been criticized for his willingness to work patiently with tyrants in the effort to bring about democratic reforms through peaceful means. But this quiet patience has been instrumental to his effectiveness.

A significant element of Carter's peace legacy is the Carter Center in Atlanta, a public policy institute he founded after leaving office. Efforts at international democratization are only part of its agenda. The center also focuses on global health and urban revitalization.

It is not yet possible to know the full impact that Carter's diplomatic interventions will have on history. Not all of Carter's attempts at mediation have been successful. Even so, the world is healthier and more peaceful because of his efforts. With his country still wrestling to define the terms of a new global war, Carter has received a deserved honor that reminds the world that American ideals will be as important as American military might in winning the war against terror.

Contact the Times | Privacy Policy
Standard of Accuracy | Terms, Conditions & Copyright