Turkey Becoming more Democratic

Turkey, who already has the Middle-East's most sturdy democracy, is becoming more democratic by the referendum process. The referendum mode they are using to gain legitimacy in their new constitutional amendments is in favor with 58%. Some of Turkey's new changes, are barring trials of civilians in military courts, protecting the privacy of personal data, allow citizens to appeal cases, and guarantee new rights for women, children, elderly, and disabled. Turkey is ready to have elected officials and constitutional court judges, like the state-centric U.S.. The EU has no reason to deny Turkey's membership, they are constitutionally ready to be a part of the EU.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/17/opinion/17fri3.html?_r=1&ref=referendums
Michelle Watkins

30 False Fronts Won Contracts for Blackwater

Government contracting work to private businesses has become increasingly common. A prominent contractor was Blackwater Worldwide, now Xe Services. Although contracting is justified as a means to increase the capacity and efficiency of providing public services, it can threaten democratic transparency and accountability. The article illustrates the concerns of some legislators about the conduct of Xe Services in the defense and national security arena. When you read the article, consider these questions: Is contracting out of government work really more efficient?; Are contracting practices as transparent as they need to be in a democratic society? ; Can contracting out sometimes undercut public policy goals?; and Who benefits from contracting out?


http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/04/world/middleeast/04blackwater.html?_r=1&emc=eta1