Dialogue: If we ever needed leaders, it is now

By CHRISTINE RANKIN

The news has been dominated by two dramatic events in the past fortnight. The tragedy in America, I believe, has changed our perceptions of world politics forever. It presents an extreme test of courage and leadership, not only for Americans but for many international leaders. It is a defining moment in history.

When in a sleepy state I heard the first report, the significance of the tragedy didn't sink in. But at 6 am, when I tuned into CNN and saw images of the horror, it was intensely real, even surreal.

Like so many people, I could not leave the television and compulsively watched the replays over and over. I listened with horror to the endlessly repeated testimony of onlookers and, as the days have passed, heard the increasing desperation of Americans to understand and explain it. The utter desperation of those with family, friends and colleagues missing has been deeply affecting.

The attack was so audacious in its sheer cruelty and disregard for human life.

I thought about my one and only visit to New York, two years ago. The excitement of Times Square, the hustle and bustle, the fashion, the vibrancy of it all, and the World Trade Center where on the top floor I watched people getting married.

At the time it seemed tacky, with their endless meringue dresses, the same minister, the same music, the same plastic flowers. Now I imagine those scenes of human innocence being snuffed out in a moment.

At home there has been another event, not at all comparable with the loss of human life, but a shock no less to innocent people.

On a much smaller scale, the Ansett debacle is likewise a test of leadership and our ability to repair the damage for everyone involved.

In the US as the days moved on Americans rallied through extreme shock and grief to say as one, "We love this country and we are proud of it. We will not be beaten by acts of terror. We will look after each other. We will triumph. We will prosper. We will win."

I love the passion of the American people and the way they go about living. It is not everyone's desired state but I enjoy their openness, pride and patriotism.

In their fervour, Americans seem to be implying that they hold the people of Afghanistan responsible because terrorists live and operate in that country. This is a very uncomfortable time to be an Afghan.

Equally, I admire the passion and confidence of Australians, but it was decidedly uncomfortable being a New Zealander this week as they united against us in support of an airline with a strong heritage to which they have an emotional attachment. It is as if as a nation we are responsible.

Australians may never see us in the same light again. These events have damaged the relationship between New Zealand and Australia. It is going to take time and remarkable leadership from both countries to repair it.

Are the people of Afghanistan responsible for the acts of a few? Are the people of New Zealand responsible for the acts of a few here?

Globally, our lives are now inextricably interlinked. Americans cannot retreat to fortress America. We cannot shrink back into our islands and pretend we're not involved.

Corporate failure in Air New Zealand is one of a string of such events. The attacks in the US were an escalation of an existing situation.

We need to face these challenges, learn from these events, respond with courage and judgment and, if necessary, behave differently in future. How very fragile is the fabric of life - and business.