Regarding the UN - yes, I guess any "peace keeping" initiative should belong to a collective of nations rather than any individual. Apparently the UN has an 8000 - strong force. This comprises of 4500 people from Australia, and 1000 from NZ (equitable on a per capita basis). The balance will be made up from the remaining 17 countries, and will include 200 from the US. Of course apart from this I think that there has to be a huge financial committment from Australia, since their Darwin base is so close. I am gratified. Ana