But mg, those concerns that you have mentioned are so F****ng important that it has to be a monumental imperative that in this of all matters double standards are not allowed.

What's more, Madonna, no doubt being more aware of these issues after weeks of having been confronted with them, should be backing down and at least saying:

"I made a mistake, I would rather go through the correct procedures and teach by example how to take a responsible attitude than be seen to encourage the irresponsible approach, or indeed to encourage the malawian government or any other from welcoming people in to do as I have done."

She is setting a precedent which will have a massive global cultural impact. If she had any guts she would back down.

mg

Your post has eloquently convinced me of the opposite conclusion to the one you have reached, more than any other that I have read.
Read it back. They are your admissions.

"Of course we need strong rules everywhere to prevent slave traders, and child molesters and all sorts of unfit and abusive types to swoop into a country and take children away"

and then

"this is a person who is totally in the public eye"

That is absolutely why it should NOT be happening.

And mg, I know you. you commented with great relevance on a thread of mine that I posted recently and you had much to say that was very useful and helpful. You also displayed a perspective that tells me that deep down you agree with me.

OK, maybe I'm being a bit arrogant in that claim, but I'm prepared to risk it as a suggestion at least.