The new—to—me—this—weekend (thanks to A.M. Mora y Leon) blog Diplomad is running the best coverage of the UN's characteristically inept and self—serving efforts in dealing with the tsunami victims:

In this part of the tsunami—wrecked Far Abroad, the UN is still nowhere to be seen where it counts, i.e., feeding and helping victims. The relief effort continues to be a US—Australia effort, with Singapore now in and coordinating closely with the US and Australia. Other countries are also signing up to be part of the US—Australia effort. Nobody wants to be "coordinated" by the UN. The local UN reps are getting desperate. They're calling for yet another meeting this afternoon; they've flown in more UN big shots to lecture us all on "coordination" and the need to work together, i.e., let the UN take credit. With Kofi about to arrive for a big conference, the UNocrats are scrambling to show something, anything as a UN accomplishment. Don't be surprised if they claim that the USS Abraham Lincoln is under UN control and that President Lincoln was a strong supporter of the UN....

More on "The UNcredibles": WFP (World Food Program) has "arrived" in the capital with an "assessment and coordination team." The following is no joke; no Diplomad attempt to be funny or clever: The team has spent the day and will likely spend a few more setting up their "coordination and opcenter" at a local five—star hotel. And their number one concern, even before phones, fax and copy machines? Arranging for the hotel to provide 24hr catering service. USAID folks already are cracking jokes about "The UN Sheraton." Meanwhile, our military and civilians, working with the super Aussies, continue to keep the C—130 air bridge of supplies flowing and the choppers flying, and keep on saving lives —— and without 24hr catering services from any five—star hotel . . . . The contrast grows more stark every minute.

There's much more, and it is terrific.

Thomas Lifson  1 03 05