Six months on: Has the world changed?

Select a link below to watch or listen to yesterday's edition of Talking Point, which discussed the six month anniversary of the attacks on America.

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It is six months since the terrorist attacks on the United States and the launch of the "war on terror" in response.

About 3,000 people lost their lives when two hijacked planes flew into the World Trade Center. Many more died in a similar attack on the Pentagon in Washington and in a further hijacked airliner that crashed in rural Pennsylvania.

Six months on, fire fighters, survivors and relatives of the victims of the attacks have gathered at the site of the World Trade Center, as two powerful vertical beams of light were switched on in remembrance of those who died.

In Washington, President George W Bush led memorial ceremonies at the White House, saying that the war on terror was entering its second phase.

Operations in Afghanistan are being scaled down, but there is widespread speculation that there will be military action against Iraq.

How do you think the world has changed since 11 September? What is the next step in the war on terror?

Click here to read your eyewitness reports of the attacks on America

This Talking Point was suggested by Jonathan Lieberman, USA :

Reactions to the six months after 11 September?

If you have any suggestions for Talking Points, please click here.

This debate is now closed. Read your comments below.

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Your reaction:

Even though there are differences between nations on how to deal with the threat of September 11 happening again, let us not forget how united most of stand on this. US did receive a wave of sympathy and real support, and continues to do so. Even if many people outside of US do not see the world in some respect as the present US government does, we still stand united in many ways. This is remarkable.
Jaakko, Finland

Everyone is fallible - it's just time the Americans realised it

Tina, UK

Six months on from the Omagh bombing had the world changed? Six months on from the Brighton bombing had the world changed? Six months on from the Warrington bombing had the world changed? Do I need to continue? I have every sympathy with the families of those lost but the only reason that people are stilling going on about it is because the Americans have realised that their arrogant view that they are indestructible has suddenly been disproved. Everyone is fallible - it's just time the Americans realised it.
Tina, UK

Nothing has changed - Just more Wars - More Killing - More suffering. The Bible said, "Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall see God". Too many people in this world will see Good soon, before their time because we have learnt nothing.
Martin George, UK

How does John C know that Afghan orphans will seek revenge on America? My grandfather was killed by a German bomb but my family has never sought revenge on the Germans. The sheer viciousness and spite of today's "liberals" is horrific. It is hate-mongers like these who cause terrorism. Also, Bin Laden was attacking America long before Bush appeared on the scene, so blaming his election for the attack is just the self-justifying rant of the terrorist supporter.
Kyle, Australia

To the blind-defenders of the USA: Most people outside the United States do NOT envy you. What they find irritating is that you loudly claim to be defenders of "freedom" and "peace", while at the same time you sell weapons and promote armed conflicts around the world. For example, see your support for Israel killing people in illegally occupied territories. Another example: you initially supported Saddam Hussein, but now you want to bomb him... is that sane judgement? No. The September 11 attack was horrible, but you have suffered what you have inflicted to other countries in the past (and in the present). The basic message is: it's a matter of mutual respect. Just look at peaceful countries such as Sweden, Norway, Finland, Canada, and New Zealand. They live very well, but they let others live in peace. They don't invade countries, promote wars, or suck up resources abroad.
Gustavo, Vancouver, Canada

I am so sorry for the state of our world. Hate and fear is growing exponentially, and there are only two sides war or peace, In God's eyes only peace is the way. Don't be deceived, either your with us or against us! Where are you on the judgment day? Peace be with you...
Steven Cox, Canada

September 11 was just another fatal terrorist attack like the hundreds that have been happening in every corner of the world for the last hundred years

James Pittman, England

September 11 was just another fatal terrorist attack like the hundreds that have been happening in every corner of the world for the last hundred years. The only difference with this one is that it happened on an American target which means that overnight it becomes a world-changing event on a par with the A-bombs on Japan, the fall of the Berlin Wall or the Blitz. The truth is it is no different to what happens every month in Israel or North Spain or Ulster. It was a very, very terrible thing that happened, but just because something has happened to America and not somewhere else doesn't make things any more significant in my book.
James Pittman, England

I think that the world is entering a dark time, with George Bush at the helm, an ultimatum has been put to the world 'if you don't want to be American then you are an enemy'. OK, so September 11 was just plain wrong, but the hijackers trained to fly in the USA, does this mean the USA is a stronghold of 'terror'. Bombing every country where there are people with views opposed to yours doesn't ensure peace, it ensures war. I think we need to check our actions before we split the world in two.
Colin, UK

Jenni, Bristol: You have to be kidding!! You saw the atrocities and what did you (Europe/England) do? Absolutely nothing!! However, you sit and bitch relentlessly about non-US involvement...if we did something - I'm sure you would be bitching about the thousands of rival factions that were murdered by the US - invading their land and pushing our values and policies on them. And by the way we were otherwise involved protecting the butchered people of the Balkans.... right in the middle of Europe and you did nothing... You are all a bunch of hypocrites. I hope my president with the IQ of a "slug" remembers this when you need help, as I'm sure you will...these people hate the west and unfortunately you are a part of it.
Caroline, USA

My world has changed. Working in the computer department of a travel agency, half of my colleagues have gone, most of them were not volunteers...
Pascal J., UK (French)

If we seek revenge from those who hurt us then we will only end up like Israel and Palestine

Peter M, London UK

As a nation you have to be strong to stop others pushing you around. If you are not part of a strong nation then what? Even the poverty-stricken have pride and sometimes that can turn to anger. If we seek revenge from those who hurt us then we will only end up like Israel and Palestine. I believe that all these atrocities have a history which in many cases comes back to the west. Look at the three main hot spots in the world today (Israel & Palestine, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe), all ex-British controlled countries. Britain is as much to blame for the horrors in today's world as any terrorist group is. How can we change? By learning from passed mistakes and making sure they don't happen again. The only way we can guarantee politicians of powerful countries don't abuse their power is to make them stand in a public tribunal at the end of their term in office and make them accountable for their actions. We vote for them and we pay them. They work for us and they should be accountable to us! Murder of hundreds of people, whether you are a leader of a country or not is still murder!
Peter M, London UK

Yes the world has changed. Six months ago George Bush would have been hard pressed to find support for his personal score settling with Saddam Hussein. Now it looks likely that the US government will allow him to avenge his father's defeat.
Guy Chapman, UK

From a personal point of view I was saddened by the September 11 attacks, but I am much more saddened by the continuing carnage of losing 40,000 people a year in car accidents and no acknowledgement of this loss. To answer the question, I believe George Bush found a friend in Osama bin Laden, just as his father did in Saddam Hussein. Prior to September 11 Bush's popularity was in the toilet, just as his father's. He additionally was being blamed for the recession, due to his tax cut to the rich, just as his father. With people in the US struggling to keep their heads afloat and an outside enemy to blame, Bush is riding high in the saddle. He is controlling the press perfectly, has provided much more profit (an increase in $379B to defence) to some of his favourite campaign contributors and has a good chance of using his coattails to rid himself of some pesky Democrats in the Senate. Therefore: yes it has changed, but then no it hasn't.
Michael Miles, USA

Has there ever been any war where civilian casualties have not occurred?

Mark C., USA

To John C. from the UK: has there ever been any war where civilian casualties have not occurred? No. It is undeniably tragic when any civilian becomes another statistic. I do not disagree with you. However, the fact that civilian casualties have been sustained is no reason to halt this campaign, or any other campaign waged for a worthy cause. Every effort has been maintained by all coalition forces to limit the number of innocents killed. Would you have opposed your own nation's participation in WWII because of German civilian casualties from RAF bombing raids? I doubt so. The UK was engaged in a "good" war then, if there can ever be such a thing, just as the US is now. So stop tossing around the same old tired "America's arrogance is responsible for this entire mess" argument. The abject failure of most governments in the Middle East to provide any sort of hope and prosperity for their own people is primarily to blame. Lastly, your "we are Americans, we have it all, but we want more" statement illustrates that the arrogance that you accuse the US of is apparently alive and well in the UK as well.
Mark C., USA

The world changed on September 11 in that until then most Americans, if they thought about it at all, considered that the US was too big, too powerful and most important too far away from the world's troubles to be directly affected by them. Terrorism is politically motivated. Defeating terrorism requires political solutions not just military action. I am not impressed by Bush, he is not astute enough to deal with the issues involved in combating the terrorists. Its going to be a long dirty slog, there is no quick fix to this.
Brian, UK

The world changed on September 11 in that until then most Americans, if they thought about it at all, considered that the US was too big, too powerful and most important too far away from the world's troubles to be directly affected by them. Terrorism is politically motivated. Defeating terrorism requires political solutions not just military action. I am not impressed by Bush, he is not astute enough to deal with the issues involved in combating the terrorists. It's going to be a long dirty slog, there is no quick fix to this.
Brian, UK

When September 11 happened, I was one day into my honeymoon. I saw at first hand how the Americans grieved. It was a sad time. However, no mater how horrific that day was, I do not think it is right that every month on the 11th they mark the anniversary. The world goes on and Americans are no different to anyone else. With the terrorist actions that took place on mainland Britain in the past 30 years, we carried on - the Americans must do the same.
Natascha Donelan, UK

We don't know who is next in Bush's list!

Aziz Ali, UK

I think the US has unveiled its offensive intentions since the September 11, so it started carrying out its military actions in Afghanistan on the pretext of the war against terrorism and now they are preparing for attacking Iraq. What makes that clear for the entire world is that George W. Bush had declared that Iran, Iraq and North Korea are the axis of evil. Then he surprised us unexpectedly that America has a list contains seven countries, which are a possible target for an American nuclear attack. We don't know who is next in Bush's list! Of course the east not the west
Aziz Ali, UK

The political response to September 11 has left me dazed with confusion. Why is it that fanatical (Muslim) religious fundamentalists who make a virtue out of mass murder have managed to attract so much support from those very same liberals who, ironically, throw up their hands in abject horror at the very idea of Christian fundamentalism?
Henry Case, UK

It was terrible, but nothing has changed. America is fighting a battle it will NEVER win. Terrorism will continue. By bombing civil people in Afghanistan all they are doing is orphaning more kids who will grow up hating the west. Oh and a point of fact for some of the Americans saying that we in Europe did not stand up to terrorist. Imagine is we bombed the hell out of Ireland, what would the great US administration say about that. We have laws both sovereign, European and international, if we broke them (which we did on occasion) we were punished. The US is violating its own constitution and international law, and no we do not envy you at all, you simply irritate us enough to vent are annoyance on this web site. RIP all people killed by hatred
Sven, UK

Has the world changed? No, America has. There are about 6 billion people in the world today. More than half can't be bothered about a terrorist attack on America and have more pressing issues to deal with. America has as always looked for excuses to impose their ideologies on the rest of the developed world with the use of brute force and they are surprised when one of these forces retaliates? What about when America dropped nuclear weapons of thousands of innocent people in Japan, systematically killed thousand of innocent men women and children in Korea and Vietnam? Now they are crying for justice? It frightens me to see a world buying into the whole idea or a war against terrorism. Terrorism as defined by America and its allies. And America thinks that by bombing Afghanistan, the will that it took for those so-called terrorists to execute such and attack can be destroyed. America should learn that will power comes great responsibility, re-invent their place in the world and stop whinging about how Sept 11 is such a big deal to the poor people in Asia and Africa, because it isn't
Independent Observer, UK

It's the minority of Americans who think that they are better then everyone else that gives the nation an arrogant image

Sadia, UK

To JerryC, USA: How dare you make such remarks about my religion without knowing what it stands for or its true meaning. You think you know all about Islam by reading a few articles on the news (which are written by people who don't have a clue about Islam) when it takes Islamic scholars a whole lifetime to understand its true meaning. You are condemning a whole religion for the actions of a few who call themselves Muslims but are as knowledgeable about Islam as YOU! I could just as easily assume that ALL Americans are ignorant bigots by your comments, but I know that's not true. However it's the minority of Americans who think that they are better then everyone else that gives the nation an arrogant image!
Sadia, UK

During the war on terrorism I saw a woman on the border of Afghanistan and Iran with about six grandchildren all under the age of twelve. Their parents were both dead from the US bombing. America and more especially the American people need to understand that compromise with these children in 10 years will not work. They will eventually, as you did, seek revenge. And will I mourn for the Americans now or in the future? NO ¿ because as a democracy you determine your own destiny. When you voted for a red neck with the IQ of a slug you said "up yours", to the rest of the world. "We are Americans, we have it all, but we want more!!!"
John C, UK

So many things got changed. Main thing is rules of the game changed. Pakistan became US best friend, from where the money was transferred to hijackers and story starts.
Priya, UK

Many Americans can't understand why the rest of the world isn't with them in mourning and action

Jenni, Bristol, England

What has happened since Sept 11th? The media have bombarded us with the "War on Terrorism" yet Osama is still free. Despite failing in this objective the USA is now turning it's sights on Iraq. It seems many Americans can't understand why the rest of the world isn't with them in mourning and action. I suggest they ask themselves how they felt when other terrorist attacks and atrocities were happening in other parts of the world. Rwanda, the Balkans, Omagh - for most of you these events were too far away to affect you. This is a self-preservation mechanism, for the majority of us to care that much about all the troubles in the world would depress us so much that we could not cope, therefore there is no guilt. Some contributors to this page seem to think that Sept 11th is all the excuse the US needs to carry out whatever military actions it likes. Unfortunately as the USA is the sole world superpower there is little the rest of us can do to stop you. Keep fighting and you'll find no shortage of people who wish to fight you. Some as desperate, fanatical and misguided as those who flew those planes into history.
Jenni, Bristol, England

KW, Australia, Oh God I've just realised your right. Better tell Mr Blair to break out the bombs and missiles straight away time to bombing Belfast. How could he have been so stupid as to try and negotiate a peaceful political solution, what sort of a monster is he. I say we take the Israeli approach straight away¿ Oh no wait, no I don't just remembered I'm sane.
C Wright, UK

There's a poster I saw recently for a debate a society in my university was hosting. There were two images with captions: the first, a picture of the Twin Towers with smoke pouring out of them was labelled "Most memorable image of 2001". The second, labelled "Most memorable image of 2002" was a bar graph showing the number of people who died in the Twin Towers and the number of people who died in revenge for the Twin Towers attack. Needless to say, the number killed in revenge was much higher, making the graph looks more than slightly similar to the picture used of the Two Towers. I think that kind of sums it all up, really.
Brendan McGowan, Ireland

None of us understands or accepts each other any better than we did before.

Kathryn, USA

Many things have changed and many things have stayed the same. According to one of his wives, bin Laden wanted to teach America a lesson. He did do that. However, often it is the teacher who does the learning. While America learned a few things, bin Laden learned:
1. America is stronger than he thought
2. The Islamic world does not entirely support his action and has not risen up to collectively wage war on America
3. He has learned what it is like to experience a Phyrrhic victory. Among the things that have stayed the same is people's attitudes. None of us understands or accepts each other any better than we did before. I'm afraid that will take an act of God.
Kathryn, USA

In some parts of the world little has changed and in some much has changed and in some there is only the illusion of change. In this situation we must find balance. The sleeping giant has been awakened once again and we will fight, believing we are doing the right thing, however to fight "the axis of evil" and then walk away will solve nothing. I hope we have learned from past ethnocentric mistakes, but fear we have not.
Ruth Rankin, USA

What happened on September 11 was not the result of envy, as some Americans believe. I like America and have many American friends, but I do not share the American dream, and would not like to live there.
David Norris, Scotland

Has the world changed since September 11? That is a question for historians and scholars to debate years from now

Gail, USA

September 11 is a day that will live in infamy...for Americans. The horror experienced that day is still echoing through us six months later. Has the world changed since September 11? That is a question for historians and scholars to debate years from now. Increasingly since September 11, I have found comments regarding the United States foreign relations and its relevance to the attacks on the Pentagon/WTC bewildering. The whispers about Americans and the US foreign policy that normally were kept in the background, are now given prime time space to be spewed to the public. A kind of airing out of dirty laundry. There are exceptions of course, Amit K, from Oman - I hear you!! The US has been accused of acts of violence against various countries, I will not write that we are innocent of all charges. However, I would like to point out we are the new kids on the block, atrocities of every shape and form that can be imagined have been carried out by every country on this planet. September 11 has illuminated for me that there are many, many people in this world who are completely ignorant of their own cultural history. Kostya from Russia, did you factor the 6 million Ukrainians that died into that figure? The United States needs to bring to justice the perpetrators of this tragedy, there can be no peace without the presence of justice. In dealing with terrorism, Newman, from Netherlands stated "Europeans...have grown to understand the dynamic of dealing with terrorism, culturally and politically." The tone of that statement brings to mind the reasoning given by women who won't leave an abusive relationship. Should there be an acceptable "level" of terrorism in society? Jay from England - How has the Good Friday peace accord "educated" the combatants in NI? Don't be so naive, both sides of this "struggle" are being well financed by "whomever".
Gail, USA

We do not expect you to feel that a change in your life or country was felt. For Americans, it was a day that changed us forever. Can any of you leave it at that and mourn how we wish. Can we build our memorials? Can we remember daily without the rest of world condemnation for it? If you were in our place, Americans would not be telling you how to feel and how to deal. Thanks to my birthland Canada and Italy.
Jasmine, USA

The main change that I can see is the UK's disgusting attitude here to our American friends

Alan Kirk, Leicester, England

I think that from this discussion we can see that things have definitely changed since the 11th of September. The main change that I can see is the UK's disgusting attitude here to our American friends. I seem to recall 6 months ago a lot of Americans thanking the UK for its support, and the a lot of people from the UK saying how much they were saddened by the event and wanting to help. The other day I was approached by someone in the street asking me to sign a petition to stop the war. I told him "No" because I said that I agree with it. He replied that I was in a small group. I laughed to myself thinking him ill-informed - how wrong I was. I think a lot of people have forgotten what has happened and have moved on, but the threat is always there.
Alan Kirk, Leicester, England

Go to a small village in Africa and see if things have changed or not - for most people in the world they haven't.
Ben Hillier, UK

Two World Wars, Jesus, Buddha, etc. - none changed the world. So, why do we expect this now? If 'change' is being used in the sense of impact, economic or otherwise, the world over, then it's always there. So, September 11 cannot be referred in exception. Else, if 'change' meant a mutation, then I'm afraid it will never happen. It's only individuals who change. The world never does. Man, collective as species, has proved to be the most savage of all beasts. Let us not have too high opinion of ourselves. Let's have hope - if we cannot do without it - in individuals, not in the world as a whole.
Vj, India

Of course it is changed. We are less free, a trend that will become more pronounced as time goes on. Surveillance cameras watching our every move and the requirement to identify oneself in order to enter even ordinary buildings will become more pervasive. New means will be invented to insure we are who we say we are and to track our movements. This will add to the already growing pressures for conformity. Looks like fun, doesn't it. As for some of the other points I spotted in a quick - very quick - scan of a few of the remarks above. The U.S. had it coming because the Islamic culture has been marginalized and humiliated? Please. If Islam had gone through a Reformation and following that Enlightenment, it would not remain a sterile orthodoxy that despises women and condemns all who follow it to poverty, ignorance and political tyranny. Who was the last great Arab scientist - can anyone tell me? So these suicide bombers with any kind of luck at all will get a handful of raisins upon arrival in Paradise.
JerryC, USA

The events of September 11th were horrifying but so is the aftermath

Joan Miller, Australia

The events of September 11th were horrifying but so is the aftermath. Afghanistan has become a killing ground of vengeance, racial hate has grown with innocent people victimised and legitimate refugees persecuted, especially in my own country. Finally we are faced with the very real threat of nuclear war which could destroy the entire world. Surely bin laden set in motion a killing machine that is far greater than he ever hoped for.
Joan Miller, Australia

With reference to the comment of the Europeans rolling over and giving into terrorists, and terrorists being allowed into government. The Americans want to look at themselves first where did a vast majority of money come from to support the IRA and the Belfast Brigade? Look at the St. Patrick Day parades in New York and Chicago. Before any one says that countries rollover and give into terrorists check their own backyard.
Andy j, Australia

Six months after the horrific September 11, this world is awakened and shakened tremendously. Maybe, we have been hibernating for too long even when spring is here and yet we cannot see the beauty of the coming season. Let not start blaming each other in this 21st century. Let's put the 20th century behind for whatever happened and renew our common understanding for a better 21st. Life by itself is a problem, please do not add more to it for a harder living.
Simon Tay, SINGAPORE

I just wish that huge asteroid they're all on about would just come and hit Earth - Earth is ready for a clean out. 98% of all life is extinct and it's nearly our turn - why politicians and regimes keep believing they can rule the world is beyond me - give it up you lot, don't you understand? You are all going to die in the end anyway - so why not live a peaceful life in the process? Oh, and if the facts are looked at carefully people will realise America is the worlds biggest and nastiest threat - far more than the middle east - just ask the poor kids of Vietnam who make the toys for McDonalds 'unhappy' meals.
Ciaran Shaman, England

The question shouldn't be "what has changed in the last 6 months", but rather, "have human beings behaved differently in the last 1000 years"?

MS, USA

The question shouldn't be "what has changed in the last 6 months", but rather, "have human beings behaved differently in the last 1000 years"? History has shown us that all powerful empires, monarchies, dictatorships, and democracies have used their strength, both militaristically and diplomatically to benefit their own interests. Was the great British Empire of a century ago any different? Did not the greatest navy on the planet flaunt its muscle in an intimidating and unilateral way to better its own interests? As long as there is a sphere of influence, nations and people will vie for dominance. Perhaps the argument can be made that we have evolved over the past century. In many respects, of course, but history repeats itself for a reason. Do you really think that if Osama bin Laden and those he leads had the chance to create a world based on their beliefs they would choose otherwise? Every time the US is criticized and called upon to retreat from it's unilateral policies, compare the core principles of the US Constitution and Bill of Rights to all the past superpowers/empires who have attempted to influence world affairs.
MS, USA

AM - maybe we do place former terrorists in Government, but we don't give them the money to carry out their actions in other countries.
Craig Miller, UK

To Greg from Canada and others who think that we in the UK do not understand, please remember that we in the UK have lived with the threat and the actuality of terrorism for many years. Ask those who live in London, Lockerbie, Warrington, Manchester, Omagh and many other places how they feel. Ask those who have been widowed, orphaned, bereaved by sectarian atrocities how they feel. What happened in New York was terrible but New York does not have a monopoly on suffering. Many millions around the world have been there before and some of the suffering has even been funded by the White House.
Derek, UK

The world does seem to be "living more on the edge of fear"

Phil W, UK

I am very pro-American, but I do get a little frustrated when the US Administration, and apparently AM, USA seems to forget that this was the WORLD Trade Center, where many nationalities lost their lives. Now the international community IS facing up to their responsibilities and providing COALITION military forces of all kinds to support the American lead in the international effort to fight terrorism. When I see some of the press briefings from Washington, I sometimes wonder whether the American people appreciate just how much international effort has been involved. The answer is a LOT. The world does seem to be "living more on the edge of fear", and few will forget that date, even if they forget what precisely happened. My heart goes to those many nationalities and families who suffered at the World Trade Centre. We should all be supporting each other, not criticising each other's efforts. American forces dropped lots of aid to innocent people in Afghanistan, in parallel to the fighting, however, the efforts should be more focussed on finding the few ring leaders who bring so much terror to everyone else, and bringing them to justice.
Phil W, UK

Please lets have a little less hypocrisy about the American support of the IRA. They have received at least as much support, financial or otherwise, from your European "partners", not to mention from the Scots and the Irish in Canada, Australia, England, Eire and everywhere else. And the biggest IRA appeaser is your own dear Prime Minister. Oh, and at least you can abuse Bush to your hearts' content without a fatwa being applied against you.
KW, Australia

I don't think anything has changed. I will admit that in my country absolutely nothing is decided without some politician profiting from it. I will admit that I have seen the numbers and that the US press has ignored far bigger incidents. But I don't think people should say that America is unfair and decides things based on it's own interests before they ask themselves one question. If your government was as powerful as the US, would it be any different? Is it any different in real life? I know for a fact that none of our governments are absolutely perfect. So I wont complain about anybody's government's mistakes and flaws if they don't complain about my government's.
TA, USA

The root of the problems within America have not been addressed

Matthew, USA

Some things have changed, others haven't. Airport security is still bordering on a joke, even at Logan Airport in Boston, where two of the planes originated. The root of the problems within America have not been addressed, only hidden behind band-aids 3 sizes too small. At the same time, a new problem has arisen. To openly question the policies of the government or dissent is now labelled "unpatriotic" and can be hazardous to one's health.
Matthew, USA

I know for most of you the six month anniversary make this seem far enough in the past that you feel OK saying exactly how you feel about September 11th; even if you think that America brought this on it's self (I'm not disagreeing). But please remember that on the East Coast of the US not everyone has gotten over the shock of September 11, especially the New Yorkers. Although I am disturbed by a great deal by our foreign policies, an international message board about September 11 is not the place to discuss those views. Please be considerate of those who have not yet put their hearts back together.
Jessie, USA

I'm amazed at how easily most people continue to think that the events of September 11 were inspired by politics. No matter how tightly you cloak what happened in political fury or "religious" fervour it's still MURDER based on hate! No matter what your political leanings you can't possibly make me believe that that you think anything that happened is in any way justified.
Jennifer, USA

We are fighting for a better world, even for those too scared to fight for their own future

AM, USA

I just read the analysis piece asking why Americans are still behind our President in the war on terror. Let me explain why. First, we are not Europeans, we do not try to appease terrorists or roll over when things get tough. Second, we are not British, we do not let our terrorists join the government. Finally, we see the big picture and are not too afraid to face it. We are fighting for a better world, even for those too scared to fight for their own future. Hope that clears things up for you. Oh by the way, where were all those people who complained about Camp X-Ray when our soldier was summarily executed in Afghanistan? Kind of makes me, as an American, wonder about the credibility of these people. Maybe, to them, its OK to kill Americans but don't dare humanely incarcerate terrorists and criminals.
AM, USA

Nothing has changed, especially for those people already deprived and oppressed in the Muslim countries. Killings of innocent civilians in the Arab world and in the rest of the Muslim world are thriving than ever before. The oppressive regimes of Arab and Muslim world, fully supported by "civilized west" are now hyperactive in the suppression of innocent civilians. What has changed is that the USA can now overtly target any Muslim country.
Hamid Khan, UK

September 11 was an awful day, and will be marked down in history, Watching the news last night with picture, interviews and film footage being show of the day, my heart went out to all the people affected, children who's parents where lost, parents whose children where lost. Have there been any changes? There has been a lot of news coverage of changes put in place and future changes. But I have only one sad thing I want to say. Last Christmas I travelled to America, with United Airlines, part or American Airlines, to Chicago then got a connecting flight. I have an illness, which causes me to carry very strong drugs with me at all times. I travelled with morphine, injections etc¿ on both flights in my hand luggage and I was never checked, asked or questioned about the contents of my bag. If I had of been a terrorist I would have had the power to kill.
Nicola, England

The so-called war on terror is still raging in Afghanistan. The US is spending millions of dollars per day all in hopes to find one person

Risto S, Canada

The so-called war on terror is still raging in Afghanistan. The US is spending millions of dollars per day all in hopes to find one person. Do they really think that we are that naive? Yet they claim that terrorism exists here but not in other locations around the world. In Macedonia and the Balkans terror has been reining for years, the same terrorists that are at work in Afghanistan have been destroying the Balkans, however for some reason Nato and the US seem to be ignoring the facts. I really hope that one day someone will actually have enough courage to report the truth about what is actually going on in Macedonia.
Risto S, Canada

As someone who works on both sides of the Atlantic - I have to confess I live in amazement at the attitude of the American press. THE WAR ON TERROR - this is all that's on the news - reported by uninformed, insular bigots who have no inkling of what happens in the rest of the world. Unfortunately this rubs off on the viewing public. This leads to mis-information and xenophobia. Fortunately not all Americans are so bigoted and have actually ventured out into the big wide world!
Nick, UK

The world has not changed since September 11. What has changed is Americans are more aware of how other countries view us. I honestly believe that other countries envy us. Why should we apologize for being smart and for protecting our own interests? Instead of you all sitting here typing about how "unfair" America is to other countries, you all should get up and do something about it. I am so sick and tired of your whining and complaining¿ And one more thing, these terrorists cannot be reasoned with, there is nothing to discuss and I fully support President Bush's campaign to end terrorism. But his domestic policies are another story.
Daneen, USA

Mm, no, it hasn't changed. People are just the same as they ever were. The rude and self-centered are still rude and self-centered. The kind and considerate are still kind and considerate. There has been no epiphany. The attacks on September 11 made people pause. But after they had time to think, to consider what happened, they continued along their divergent ways. It's rather depressing really.
Cassy, USA

One of the sad consequences of September 11 is the polarisation of views around the world. Americans complain that the world is against them, and distrust European attitudes to the ongoing conflict. Europeans accuse America of isolationism and make no attempt to understand the American psyche. It seems nowadays that it's almost impossible to express an equivocal opinion. The media only has two labels available - Pro US (whatever they do), or Anti US (whatever they do).
John, England

US policies affect me, then I require some form of representation relating to those policies

Martina, UK

The world has not changed, only the truth is now exposed like a bare nerve. The American's have a saying - "no taxation without representation". A pretty good saying really. However, an equally valid saying is "no influence without representation" - meaning that we should be represented within any group that influences our lives. I believe that the September events should be about the American's understanding that people don't like being influenced by a group that they are not representative in. If US policies affect me, then I require some form of representation relating to those policies.
Martina, UK

I don't think much has changed - particularly the way the Bush administration still go around the world as if they were voted the "World Police". Well I'm afraid I didn't vote for them to be, and if they carry on as they are, more and more people will grow to despise them and in turn this will make the world a far more dangerous place to live.
Alan, London, UK

I have to say, comments about all out nuclear war seem far-fetched, but Britain joining the US in a strike against Iraq would again prove that Blair is just simply a "yes" man to Bush. Britain should stop following the lead of the US. People have very short memories. After all, the IRA have been getting financial assistance from America since the start of the troubles in Ireland.
Frank, Scotland

To all those Americans who claim to fail to understand why people in Europe and the rest of the world don't stand by the US blindly, I suggest they read the considered and informed views expressed by Europeans, Middle-Easterners, Africans and Asians in this Talking Point. Let's get real - it's a great tragedy that 6,000 died in NYC. But 850,000 died in the Rwandan genocide and I don't recall the US media repeatedly asserting that this had changed the world irrevocably. Perhaps if Americans showed a little more empathy to the sufferings of other people around the world, they might get more understanding themselves in return. And you feel vulnerable now? No longer the only nation safe from assault? Well welcome to the rest of the world...
Will Salomone, London, UK

America now believes it can ignore international laws and start a war wherever it likes

Alastair, England

Yes, for the worse. America now believes it can ignore international laws and start a war wherever it likes. Sure it may keep its economy fully employed but all it is showing is exactly what the 'terrorists' would argue: that America is a believer in military force to keep its economy going. Forget democracy, let's have nuclear wars... Most recently - let's look at bombing Hussein (who was funded by America for many years) as he may get weapons of mass destruction and hey we have them so we have the moral right to use them because we are Americans! Sorry America but no sympathy any longer as you are showing yourself to be a profoundly undemocratic bullyboy of the world.
Alastair, England

I still fail to see why a terrorist attack on the US creates such a "we must combat terrorism at any cost" attitude. I can understand their need to find and bring figureheads like Bin Laden to justice, but the coalition has failed to do that. To cover this up, they decide to go and attack another target. Sadly our Prime Minister doesn't have the backbone to tell Bush that the vast majority of his government and voters disagree.
Stuart, UK

The world is a more dangerous place, with a superpower that believes it can now do anything it damn well pleases. It can, when its "allies" (like our own Prime Minister) are behaving in an extraordinarily supine way to the USA. Yes, the USA suffered. Yes, the attack was an outrage. None of this addresses the issue of why this happened, however. The Islamic world feels marginalized and belittled by the West (just look at the "Axis of Evil" speech, condemning nations, like Iran, who had actually supported US action against those who attacked it). The knucklehead crusade continues apace. God alone knows where they'll lead us.
DS, UK

I feel far more at risk nowadays. The American policies since September 11 seem designed to ensure extremists flourish and grow. The latest statements that they are prepared to use nuclear devices can only make things worse. What seems equally frightening is the apparent lack of effort by ordinary Muslim bodies to put their own house in order by taking steps to prevent extremist views infecting their religion which after all is most certainly not represented by the Bin Ladens of the world.
Iain, UK

Do you envy us so much that you would revel so publicly in the murder of 3000 innocent civilians? Do you hate us so much that you can so easily rationalize and justify mass murder?

Linda, USA

Why are so many of you so crass, hateful and cruel? The majority of the comments made here are insulting and demeaning, not just to Americans and to the dozens of other nationalities who lost citizens at the WTC, but to the UK as a whole because so many self-cantered, "isolationist" Americans come here to read the news and get a understanding of European opinion. Do you envy us so much that you would revel so publicly in the murder of 3000 innocent civilians? Do you hate us so much that you can so easily rationalize and justify mass murder? These people didn't die in internal civil strife where politicians have the power to negotiate (Balkans, India/Pakistan, Kashmir, Northern Ireland, Indonesia and the Israel/Palestinian territories) or in war as all wars cause civilian deaths (Afghanistan, WWI, WWII, Gulf War, Falklands), these 3000 human beings were *murdered*. Why does it seem so impossible for you to let us mourn our dead, not to mention your dead, in the manner in which we see fit? Have your own ceremonies in a way which is culturally correct for your society and leave us alone.
Linda, USA

To: Stuart, USA. You say "America was the driving force behind WWII and WWI" and hint that it was USA that liberated the world. What about us then? Have you counted our dead? Over 20 million people? And just think about it: who was the first to make Hitler turn back - we or the US?
Kostya, Russia

I witnessed the September 11 events from 9 blocks away. After a week on my couch in the shocking realization that this would mean war, I reflected over America's liberal history. Liberal as in liberation. How quickly the world forgets America was the driving force behind WWII and WWI. It doesn't surprise me that many people criticize the USA for its strong stance. It takes a strong nation to face down evil. The world, including America, has watched terrorism inflict real suffering throughout the world. Once again, America, all be it late to the table, is called upon to face it full on. As I sat on that couch coming out of my shock it was all too clear America was being called again to contain an evil. And we will.
Stuart, New York, USA

I think September 11 has made America aware of terrorism. For so long we have been spared terrorist attacks. But my question is why so many in the UK are so quick to condemn our actions? In the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries Britain ran roughshod over much of the world. The result being that many of your actions have had a direct result on US foreign policy decisions today. I believe that you fought three wars with Afghanistan, (1839-1842, 1878-1880 and 1919). Let us finish fighting one.
Andrew Plumer, USA

I still find it amusing that some people believe if we stop, the bombing, killing of civilians will cease

Doug, London, UK

The UK has truly gone mad, I read these comments and see apologists and do-gooders moaning about the fact they can't travel or nuclear war is due. I still find it amusing that some people believe if we stop, the bombing, killing of civilians will cease. GROW UP, this is the real World, people. We would be making better progress to resolving this issue if people like Paul and Danni form the UK buried their heads in sand.
Doug, London, UK

The notion that the 'world' has changed shows just how insular and narrowly focussed we all are in the west. Some things have changed. But for so many nothing has changed. Ask people in South America, rural China, Mongolia, even Russia and Europe. Not much has changed as a result of September 11. Ok so we get cheaper flights. That's it. The US has changed. But that is more to do with Bush than September 11. Afghanistan has changed. Too early to tell if it will do them any good though.
Graham, UK

Re. Silkie's comments that 'Don't expect us to tolerate terrorism on our soil just because "Europeans have lived under the threat of terrorism for years." Why have you allowed it to happen?' Well, in the case of Irish Republicanism, it was largely financed by your own countrymen. Why did YOU allow that to happen?
Dougie McKinnon, UK

The sad day of September 11 changed the world. The reaction, I fear, will have far more devastating consequences. The world is becoming increasingly unstable with a shaken George Bush flexing the USA's military muscles worldwide. Have they learned nothing? Bombing will breed resentment, hatred and more extremism. The causes of those terrible events have not been addressed and until there are the Americans will continue to be targets. Goings on today in Israel and the occupied territories shows us that violence cannot suppress hatred, the military option is breeding it, the bombing of Afghan civilians is not a fitting tribute to those who died on September the 11th
Huw Dylan, UK

This was indeed an act of war. Imagine if the Eiffel Tower was destroyed. Or Windsor Castle. Or central Munchen during Oktoberfest

Randy, USA

I've read the comments above that say things like September 11 is a blip on the screen of history relative to other defining moments in history. I would submit that there are some differences. The first is that the depravity of the terrorists was an attack on civilians. Not government officials or military targets. The second is the relatively impotent response of our NATO allies with the exception of the UK. Once again, an America that prefers to be left alone is called to arms for the benefit of all. This was indeed an act of war. Imagine if the Eiffel Tower was destroyed. Or Windsor Castle. Or central Munchen during Oktoberfest. Europe would come running to the US for help, just like it happened during the Balkan "crisis", which really was not much of a crisis to the average American. It appears that many of our allies spend too little for their own defence to be able to even protect their own interests, relying instead on America to fill any voids. Then, feeling like they should second-guess, question and participate equally in any action taken. Quite simply, we have been viciously attacked. We have every right to take any necessary action to defend ourselves. Hopefully, our allies will not experience the tragedy we have. Hopefully, their governments are prepared to take up the defence of their citizens if something bad does happen. I fear that they will rely on us, rather than their own resources if they are attacked.
Randy, USA

I loathed the USA before the September 11 atrocities, and the events since then, have made me loathe them even more. They, the Americans, are the threat to world peace.
Brian Roberts, UK

Our TV screens are filled with the images of mourning Americans as they commemorate the victims of September 11th. At the same time, where are the memorials to the Bosnian, Albanian, Croatian and Serbian victims of the recent Balkan wars, the victims of the genocide in Rwanda, the millions of starving African children (victims of western colonialism and third world debt), the Palestinians and Israelis who are dying every day through terrorism, the East Timorese who died in their tens of thousands so they could live as free people? The list goes on, yet we're only supposed to care for a nation who couldn't give a hoot when the streets of London became bloodbaths in the hands of the IRA. I think most people are more brainwashed than they could ever imagine and this is the USA's greatest crime of all.
Martin Law, UK

feel great sadness that this icon of the New York skyline is gone, forever immortilalised in film and photographs, in memories and conversation

Simon Jesson, UK

In April, I visited New York for the second time. I feel great sadness that this icon of the New York skyline is gone, forever immortilalised in film and photographs, in memories and conversation. I think the imagery of that day will remain part of my memory for a long time to come. With many images around the world of violence and destruction, this hits home because of the very fact that I have an emotional connection with the site. Sitting under the towers having coffee one morning, we saw the memorial to the previous bomb attack of the early 90's. As an architect, I'm hesitant to see the site rebuilt, the memories of what once was the most dominant skyline reduced to a pale imitation of what used to be. I like the idea behind the lights, as a permanent reminder/memorial, it is a powerful aid for those who have both been to the towers and seen them from afar. And they are unable to be abused as the towers were, by such a hideous act of terrorism.
Simon Jesson, UK

It seems that the major change in the last 6 months is that the excuse of "they're supporting terrorism" is now a valid ground to attack any country that you disagree with. Israel has learned this very well from the Americans, and even Mugabe tried to get in on the act by referring to his opponents as "terrorist supporters". The one thing that hasn't changed is that Americans are still supplying NorAid (and thus the IRA) with lots of money and arms.
Steve W, UK

In response to Silkie's comment "Europeans have lived under the threat of terrorism for years." Yes, we have and realise that retaliation is a short-term measure. Until we look at the root cause this will continue (look at the escalation in Israel) and we must educate people in both sides of the "struggle" to ensure lasting peace (after all America funded a large part of the terrorist IRA's campaign in Europe!).
Jay, England

The idea that *might is right* still pervades thinking in the USA

Paul

September 11 has clearly polarised opinion around the world, but has it really changed minds? I doubt it. The idea that *might is right* still pervades thinking in the USA, a country so arrogant that, despite international laws, it perpetrates its own acts of violence against innocent civilians (Afghanistan, Yugoslavia, Iraq etc.) in the name of *peace*. The so-called *war on terror* is hypocrisy.
Paul

The World has definitely changed since the 11th of September. America has got what it finally wants, an excuse to destroy, invade, humiliate and annexe any country on this earth without any evidence linking them to anything. The world now seems happy to see the powerful demolish the powerless all in the name of self-defence and "freedom". They are openly talking about using nuclear weapons against 7 countries while Western citizens applaud this barbaric mania given from their "peaceful" leaders. The United Nations should mean what is says and not the "5 nations", the permanent members of the Security Council should be made into the same status as all the others, that way we will have a truly democratic world. The UN should also set up a new resolution that states "No attack in the name of self defence will be tolerated unless it be within that country's borders."
Andrea Colucci, Milano, Italia

To Ali C - USA. Your comments, if taken as read, highlight nicely that nothing has really changed. Why do you highlight an 'American' spirit? Do you feel that it is peculiar to America? That other nationalities (especially those that your country decrees) are incapable of displaying such virtues? Unfortunately you continue to portray the world in terms of nationalities, as was the case before Sept 11th, instead of understanding that the world is made up of individuals all capable of both good and bad.
Mark, UK

Europeans, who are you to tell us how to handle our foreign relations? So we screwed the communist party in France and Italy in the post-war era...so what? It turned out better for you guys anyways, plus we financed your entire post-war reconstruction. What did you do France? Slaughter thousands upon thousands of Algerians. Oh and burn synagogues left and right over the past year. Or how about you Belgium? Do you want to throw another coup in the Congo? Or maybe you would rather step back again and let another million Rwandans die for the sake of twenty nuns. Now that's morality.
Nicole, USA