What responsibilities have beleaguered the U.S. Since the end of the Cold War? Why?

-The post-Cold War era saw the United States as the sole leader of the world affairs.

-The Cold War set the standard for military-industrial complexes which, while weaker than during the Cold War, is a legacy that continues to exist.

-The new world theory as theorized between Bush and Gorbachev saw optimism and democratization for countries.

-After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the Bush administration declared a worldwide "war on terror," involving open and covert military operations, new security legislation, efforts to block the financing of terrorism, and more.

-Washington called on other states to join in the fight against terrorism asserting that "either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists."

-Many governments joined this campaign, often adopting harsh new laws, lifting long-standing legal protections and stepping up domestic policing and intelligence work.

-Critics charge that the "war on terrorism" is an ideology of fear and repression that creates enemies and promotes violence rather than mitigating acts of terror and strengthening security.

-The worldwide campaign has too often become an excuse for governments to repress opposition groups and disregard international law and civil liberties. -Governments should address terrorism through international cooperation, using international law and respecting civil liberties and human rights.

-Governments should also address the root causes of terrorism, notably political alienation due to prejudice, state-sponsored violence and poverty.(Reuters 1)