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2011-02-21 Iraq

Hundreds protest in Iraq, TV station torched

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Posted by Fred 2011-02-21 00:07|| || Front Page|| [3 views ] Top

#1 I think Iraqi reconstruction could have been accelerated from the start had the US military adopted a "big brother" approach to security.

The way to do this would be to have a simple portable security system, to secure the identity of each and every Iraqi they met, and provide them with an encrypted and laminated photo ID card that they would use for everything from rations, to voting, to drivers license, internal and external passport, etc. All their information entered into a database controlled by the US military.

It would not have any identifying text on the card, only code and their picture, so even government bureaucrats could not tell their name, where they were from, or their religion; only if they were authorized what that bureaucrat provided. Green light or red light.

In the field, one device would take the facial picture of the Iraqi, using lasers to determine their height. They would stick their hands into a box, one at a time, and their hands would be laser scanned for prints. Then an oral swab to get some DNA.

Then they would be asked their name, age, place of birth, place of residency, religion and sect, tribe if any, criminal record, etc. With their answers recorded on voice print ID, so that any electronic communications could be associated with a person.

Finally, all that data would be encrypted and put on a data matrix barcode on the back of their ID, with just their picture on the front. The DNA sample would go to a central location to be added to the database.

If stopped in public by a policeman or soldier of any kind, they would have to present their ID and have it scanned. Green light and they were good to go. Red light or no ID and they would be detained to confirm their identity, or issue them a new card.

Resistance or refusal to carry would just mean longer detentions, denial of food, fuel, voting, government services such as water, power, trash collection, and freedom of movement, etc.

Even foreigners would be issued such cards, so all Iranian pilgrims would get one, for example.

Ideally, the ID cards would be a source of national identity, stabilizing the country quickly, and maximizing bureaucratic efficiency while reducing graft and persecution.

While this would be abhorrent in a peaceful and prosperous country like the US, it could be a godsend to a country in the throes of chaos, anarchy and violence, as a way to restore order.

Posted by Anonymoose 2011-02-21 09:35|| 2011-02-21 09:35|| Front Page Top

#2 Looks like local issues are at stake in these protests. So a general revolt is unlikely

Posted by Cromort Henbane7174 2011-02-21 19:14|| 2011-02-21 19:14|| Front Page Top

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