We’d be remiss in not acknowledging the fading tenure of British Prime Minister Tony Blair. He’s taking leave in late June, having bolstered Britain’s standing in Europe, presided over a thriving economy and played a critical role in bringing peace to Northern Ireland.
But he departs under a torrent of criticism and resentment, a consequence of his decision to follow President Bush into Iraq. Indeed, plummeting popularity prompted Blair to step down early.
Even so, Blair’s legacy should not be that of Bush’s “poodle,” as his British critics proclaim. In the United States at least he should be seen as a stalwart ally. Many of us heard Blair’s speech after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in which he declared, “We were with you at the first. We will stay with you to the last,” and recall his reassurance and warmth. Last week, announcing his resignation, Blair explained his decision to entangle Britain in Iraq, saying, “I did what I thought was right for our country.”
Like Bush, Blair proved to be short-sighted and immovable when it came to Iraq, but he deserves to be judged for the totality of his leadership over 10 years as prime minister.
Blair was one of the youngest heads of state when he was elected prime minister. During his three terms, Britain’s economy, health, welfare and education systems have improved.
In Clinton-esque fashion, Blair moved his Labor Party from left to center.
In foreign policy, Blair accomplished much. He played a key role in stopping genocide in Kosovo and the bloody civil war in Sierra Leone. He took steps to reduce poverty in Africa and shepherded the peace process between Protestants and Catholics in Northern Ireland. Had he not embraced the war in Iraq, would his stance have restrained Bush? We see no reason to think so – Iraq policy and its inept execution is the province of the White House, not No. 10 Downing St.
He hasn’t always agreed with Bush. On climate change he has taken a strong leadership role as Bush has rationalized.
There is much speculation as to Blair’s next job; he’s been mentioned in connection with the World Bank, NATO and the European Commission. He is age 54, and so we have plenty of reason to hope he will make contributions in the years to come.
