International outrage continues to grow as over a million survivors of Cyclone Nargis desperately stuggle to survive. Over a week after the devasting storm smashed into Myanmar, the ruling junta is demonstrating a callous disregard for its citizens that is as shocking as it is immoral.

Tons of relief supplies and disaster aid float offshore, but is not allowed to be transported the the crisis area. International relief workers and medical professionals already inside Myanmar have tried to help, but are being refused entry to the crisis area. They are turned back by police and military checkpoints.

The military junta ruling Myanmar is guilty of severe human rights abuses by ignoring the needs of the cyclone victims. But, world leaders are also at fault. There needs to be swift and decisive action taken to aid those in need, but instead, there is only pandering to a corrupt military regime.

The victioms cannot wait for aid. They are dying now. And even more will die as infectious dieases begin spreading. Where is the political will to do what is right?

National sovereignity be damned. When a government abuses its people, or in this instance, shows criminal neglect, they lose the right to rule.

Three years ago the United Nations held a summit where 171 nations argreed that intervention, even the use of force, was allowable if a state refused to protect its own citizens. But, no leaders have stepped up to do what is right for the victims of Cyclone Nargis.

Why is no international aid getting to those facing starvation, dehydration and cholera? The answer is as ugly as it is obvious. Holding international summits and passing resolutins are impressive, but translating such resolutions into action takes more courage than most political leaders can muster.

The time for political nicetes is long past. It is time now for us to get off our buts and get emergency aid to the survivors of Cyclone Nargis…at least those still alive.