Anti-war movement stronger than during 1991 Gulf War
March 18, 2003
KALAMAZOO -- Questions surrounding the purpose of an Iraqi invasion have resulted in an anti-war movement with a different face than before, says Dr. Paul Clements, associate professor of political science at Western Michigan University.
"It is clearly stronger and more broadly based than in the early 1990s Gulf War. This time it's not just a question of getting Saddam out of Kuwait. The conflict and extent of U.S. involvement is open-ended, and this has brought many more people into the movement." Several factors could lead to even more intense protest campaigns, similar to those seen at the end of the Vietnam War.
"If an invasion of Iraq leads to long-term occupation, we have to expect the American death toll to rise. That, along with other likely results, such as recession at home, increased terrorism, and a more unstable Middle East would be the most likely scenario for a 1960's-level protest movement," he says.
Media representatives may contact Clements for comment at (269) 387-5699 or <paul.clements@wmich.edu>.
Media contact: Cheryl Roland, 269 387-8400, cheryl.roland@wmich.edu